The last time we were in Rome was for my 40th, twelve years ago. Nothing has changed. Except that I am a little bit older and have a little bit less energy. Just a little bit… 

The Turksih Air flight is not too bad – thanks to Downton Abbey I am not bored for one second. We are both exhausted during the lay-over in Istanbul. Obviously the night of storms in Cape Town and an over night flight took its toll. We arrive in Rome just after 10h00, dredging through customs in queues that reminds me of my days of National Service. (I am always aware of how spoilt we  are in South Africa, even though we love moaning about service! We spend at least the next hour trying to get through customs!)

Rome basks in full summer regalia. Thousands of tourists shouldering their way from Trevi fountain to Forum. We find our air b&b in a quiet neighbourhood. The landlady speaks perfect sign language in explaining about how to lock doors and where to find restaurants. It is 32 degrees outside. A mid morning nap restores our energy levels, after which we decide to venture into the city.

The summer splendour of flowering Jasmine cascades over ancient walls. Designer dogs discretely poo on roman sidewalks. Old ladies pull heavy grocery trollies across cobble stoned sidewalks. Beggars beg in lamenting voices, picking up the scent of suave Italian gentlemen who parades past in crisp suits and polished shoes. Rome. Beuatiful, glorious Rome. We walk to Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, doding the selfie sticks of thousands of tourists from all over the world. The Japanese wearing masks, the Americans being loud, the Germans marching forth, the English glowing red in the afternoon sun. 

Our first beer (something we never do in South Africa) tastes of holiday. A small sidewalk cafe, a friendly waiter, a bowl of little snacks and the blazing sun. People smoke and talk an laugh. The carefree wonderland of Europe. I cannot help but think if they wonder where the next bomb would explode. I certainly don’t. I marvel at the shops and the massive Chestnut trees laden with fruit. And I deeply inhale the privilege of being in Europe.