Rome - Day One

Rome, the Eternal City, has always held a fascination for me. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture make it one of the world's most captivating destinations. So, when I received an invitation to spend a week in Rome, I leapt at the chance. This is my diary of my first day in the city.

I arrived at the Grand Hotel de la Minerve, my home for the next seven days, early in the morning, feeling both excited and a little apprehensive. The hotel is a luxurious retreat in the heart of the city, and I was eager to explore its many features. After checking in, I headed straight to my room, which was flooded with light and had a stunning view of the city.

My first destination was the Colosseum, one of Rome's most iconic landmarks. The Colosseum is a symbol of the city's rich history, and I was eager to see it up close. As I approached the massive structure, I felt as though I was transported back in time. I walked around the perimeter of the Colosseum, admiring the intricate carvings and massive arches that have withstood the test of time.

As I walked towards the entrance, I encountered an old man who was selling postcards. He struck up a conversation with me and told me some fascinating stories about the Colosseum, including how it was used as a gladiatorial arena, where warriors fought to the death, and how it was also used to stage animal hunts. I was enthralled by his tales and I bought several postcards from him.

Once inside, I was amazed by the scale of the Colosseum. The vast arena could seat up to 50,000 people, and I could easily imagine the excitement and noise that would have filled the air during a gladiatorial contest. I walked around the levels of the Colosseum, marvelling at the intricate engineering that went into its construction.

Next, I headed to Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 for lunch. This traditional Italian restaurant is located in the heart of the city and serves up some of the best local cuisine I have ever tasted. I enjoyed a delicious plate of pasta, washed down with a glass of red wine, and struck up a conversation with the owner, who regaled me with tales of his life in Rome.

After lunch, I visited the Roman Forum, an archaeological site that was once the centre of political and social life in ancient Rome. The Forum is a sprawling area, filled with the remains of temples, government buildings, and markets. As I walked among the ruins, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the richness and complexity of the civilization that once thrived here.

In the evening, I took a leisurely stroll through the trendy neighbourhood of Trastevere and tried some gelato at Gelateria dei Gracchi. The gelato was delicious, and I felt my spirits lift as I strolled through the streets, admiring the colorful buildings and bustling street life.

Finally, I ended my day with dinner at Roscioli, a popular seafood restaurant in the historic center of Rome. The restaurant was buzzing with energy, and I enjoyed a delicious meal of seafood, washed down with a glass of wine. As I left the restaurant, I felt satisfied and content, already in love with this wonderful city.

In conclusion, my first day in Rome was an unforgettable experience, filled with adventure, culture, and good food. I am eager to see what the rest of the week has in store for me. The Eternal City has cast its spell on me, and I am eager to see more of its many