Roma

Today we started off with a business visit. An Italian businessman came to talk to us about doing business in Italy. It is really hard for me to stay awake during these business visits because they are always scheduled after our big travel days. And I just get exhausted after those days.

After the business visit we did laundry!!! Yay, my clothes don't smell any more.

After laundry we did some major sight seeing. First we saw the Capuchin Crypt (or bone church). It was pretty crazy getting there. Luckily we were given unlimited subway passes, so that was nice. The crypt was a little creepy, but it really didn't bother me much. Lots of old bone decorated the place.

Next we went to San Giovanni church. Supposedly the first catholic church ever. The inside was HUGE. And unbelievably detailed. It had these giant statues of the 12 apostles. It was really cool.

Then we went to another church famous for where Jesus supposedly walked up these steps (Basilica of St. John Lateran). The steps are called the Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs) or the Holy Steps. We called this the Jesus Steps. Hopefully that name doesn't offend anybody. You aren't allowed to walk on the steps, you have to walk on your knees. It is amazing to see the devotion of some people to their religion. Quite heart warming.

Next we met up with everyone to go to the Colosseum. It is even more amazing than the pictures. How did these people build these things???

We then walked to the Forum, but it was closed so we couldn't take pictures. We also saw the giant government building with the horses on top. Holy cow the buildings in Rome are huge. We also saw a bunch if tall pillars depicting wars and the four rivers. I feel like there are pillars depicting wars all over the place. Ancient Rome sure did have fun conquering everyone. We also saw the Parthenon.

My favorite fountain was was the Trevi Fountain. I made a wish and threw my coins in! We then saw the Spanish Steps and watched an Opera concert! My favorite part was the dancers before the show started. It was amazing. We also saw the twin churches after that and then headed home! Pretty busy day.

I love my group that I usually tour with. They usually have everything planned and we always have something to do. We joke now that we are a family. Andrew and Jessica are the parents. I fall as the eldest child. Ha ha. I love my new friends!

Let's see, I had pizza and bruschetta for the first time! It was delicious. Taking buses is a joke here, but it makes for the experience. I really want to learn a second language so I don't feel dumb anymore.

I also broke my third pair of sunglasses. I think fate wants me to buy sunglasses in every country. I bought new ones for five Euro this time.

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Location:Rome, Greece