Euro 4 - Rome Final Day

Let me say right now that I regret not having ridden on a scooter while in Rome (or Italy as a whole). I went into the trip knowing that I didn't want to pay to rent one (expensive) - and driving one for very long on Rome's streets is a bad idea (crazy driving). But I still held onto the hope that I would ride one...that I didn't is disappointing.

Day three in Rome started more relaxed (slower) than Becca and I planned. We woke up gradually at our hostel-affiliated apartment, still trying to figure out our clocks and alarms and time zones. After a chat with our flatmates (from Kansas?), we took our bags on a short walk to store them near the train station, we learned the neighborhood's power was out. Still got to leave our bags and moseyed on out to do a little shopping.

My roommate's friend has a shop between our hostel and the Colosseum, so we thought we'd stroll through the area, pop in, and continue onto a couple of other sites before leaving town that night. And the side street where her shop is (supposed to be) is so cool. Lots of little boutiques, I guess you'd call them, charming ivy-covered pastel buildings, and a men's clothing store I actually thought was interesting enough to purchase something from... a Paganello-theme costume-related item.

Besides the Borghese Gardens picture below, we set out thinking we would try to see the Capuchini Museum (lots of old crypts and bones, I think). The museum had odd hours, so we continued up the hill towards the Borghese Gardens. On the way, we saw a protest for alternative energy. We think the building was the Department of Energy, or Commerce, or something like that. Got to meet a couple nice people supporting the cause. As we left, we also got to see the American Embassy and talk to a postcard vendor who had a high opinion of Americans' political consciousness.

Here are a couple pictures of the Borghese Gardens and views from the hill it sits atop:

This one reminds me of Atlanta, but with a more beautiful street sign:

For our last meal in Rome, Becca and I pick a little place tucked into a corner between heavily touristed spots. Pizza was good, wine we took in moderation, and then... the friendly restaurant owner had his scooter right out in front of the place. I asked if Becca could go for a ride (thinking she would absolutely love it and that I might be next in line). But he wasn't thrilled about the idea. At least I tried.

A little walking, a city bus ride, wading through a few more tourists, and a little jaunt past Termini to grab our bags. And that about wraps up Rome for us. We head for the train that will take us north towards the beach. Here's a video that, if you listen to real closely at the end, will reveal why Becca didn't want to say "Goodbye" to Rome...

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