“Travel is like love, mostly because it’s a heightened state of awareness, in which we are mindful, receptive, undimmed by familiarity and ready to be transformed. That is why the best trips, like the best love affairs, never really end.” — Pico Iyer
This quote pretty much sums up how I feel about Rome. Six years ago, I went to Rome to study abroad. It was my first time to really go out of the country (not counting Canada, where I’ve been many times), and it blew my mind.
Everything about Roma is perfect to me. I love the food, the culture, the sights and the smells. I love the grittiness of the city. Rome isn’t perfectly clean–but that’s not due to neglect, it’s just because it’s ancient. I love the flowers on balconies and in windows, the cobblestone streets, the smell of baking bread and the noise of the boisterous locals. I love the early morning markets, the terrifying mopeds, the sweet gelato, the ridiculously amazing cheese, and the way the whole city is simply steeped in history.
I truly could go on forever about the reasons I love Rome. Even now that I’ve been to twelve countries and probably hundreds of cities, it’s still my favorite, hands down. My heart contracts when I think of Rome, and I get butterflies in my stomach. In six years I’ve only been back once, but I still think of it as my city, a place I can always call home. I hope I never stop loving Rome.
You are an amazing photographer. I love the cathedral picture with the sunlight streaming through. Thank-you for sharing.
Wow, thanks! I had a crappy camera back then too–I think Rome is just a photogenic place!
I can’t wait to go back to Rome! I bet you have some good tips…
I do! Are you going there on your RTW trip? I could probably make up a list for you
Almost certainly! And that would be… amazing
I think Rome captures everyone’s heart. Great photos.
Yes, it certainly is a special place!
Thanks for reading!
Great Shots! I love Rome! It’s one of the most beautiful city worldwide! I love going around the city especially when it’s sunny …there is a special light brighting the city!
I agree, the light in Rome is very warm, and makes for excellent photos. Thanks for your nice words, and thanks for reading!
I’m so glad I found this. I love your quote. Thanks for dropping by my site, and I am excited to read the adventures you’re on, too!
I can’t believe I lived in Europe for six months and never made it to Italy.
I love your blog! Thanks for stopping by mine
You should definitely go to Rome someday, it’s a really unique and special place.
Great photos. I love the city of Rome so much! The feeling of being in such an ancient city just gives me a good feeling inside, and the people are all (for the most part) very friendly!
I know, the ancientness of everything is very humbling–to think, the U.S.A. is just 200 years old! I just felt in awe of everything in Rome. Thank you for reading!
Amazing pictures, awesome quote!
Thank you! It helps that Rome is such a photogenic city
Love that picture of the sun rays inside the St. Michaels. I still kick myself for not climbing up and getting that postcard view of The Vatican and Rome. By then, I had climbed up a few towers in Italian cities and towns already and just couldn’t do it, lol.
Well Rome is the kind of place you should keep going back to as much as possible, so just do it next time!