Having crossed the half way mark of my maiden European voyage, I had already tasted 3 countries, which were so different and yet so similar. It was now time to leap forward towards the biggies. Putting fashionable Milan behind me, I made my way to the airport, for a short 1 hour flight to:
Roma: Ciao Bella
Where do I begin? Rome was supposed to be the highlight of my trip (after the drive of course). But having already fallen in love with Zurich, Rome had big shoes to fill. This land of the Gladiators was prepared no doubt to make its play at the top spot.
While I was suitably “warned”, my first impressions of Rome were rather underwhelming. This riddled with history city, despite its grandeur, somehow left me with a feeling that something was amiss. Perhaps the sheer number of tourists that the city houses at any given point in the year, rendering the cityscapes rustier and dustier than expected, was what surprised me the most. Nevertheless, I was determined to make the most of everything!
Planning and making my reservations for the trip were a methodical and well thought out process. Every time I was about to book a hotel, I made sure that the distance to the city centre was walkable, if not a stop away, and I was least required to waste time on commute. Keeping those key points in mind, I had booked my hotel in Rome as well. While my plan worked perfectly in all other cities, Rome fell short by an inch. And largely my time in Rome was coloured by the distaste in the locale of where I always knew I had to return to.
Despite starting off on the wrong foot with Rome, I made my best efforts to assist Rome in redeeming itself. And in all other ways, Rome did splendidly.
The sights of Rome were enough to keep one sated. But, before you can call it day, Rome will pull you by tongue and submerge you in its tastes that will keep you mesmerised, almost in a trance like state.
My journey through Rome was particularly made worthwhile, once again thanks to my brother. Marking it down as an important tip for any tourist, most major cities in Europe offer a city pass, which allows one to enter almost every tourist attraction free of cost, without having to wait in line, and also includes public transport free entry for the duration of the pass. This tip was most generously received from my brother who had used the Roma Pass himself. In my research on the Roma Pass, I managed to go one step further by obtaining the Omnia Pass, which included all the aforesaid benefits for Rome, and also for the Vatican. And that my friends made the trip for me! Trust me when I tell you that jealousy riddled eyes provided a jump in my steps, as I waltzed into the Colosseum, past the 100s of people waiting in line for hours to enter. Smart travelling for the win!!
Rome was made sweeter, once again courtesy my brother, as I was introduced to one of his delightfully sweet college friends and her charming husband and adorable daughter, who were the most gracious and fun hosts for half a day, giving me the scoop on all the best local food joints the city had to offer.
I was once again brimming and overflowing with what Europe had given me, through Roma Italia. However, the last leg of my trip was now upon me. Three days in this colossal city zipped by. I was already 11 days in and the time to draw the curtains was getting closer. With half a heavy heart, and half a super excited one, I packed my bags and made my way to my final destination; rather “returned” to my final destination:
Paris: We meet again!
With my return tickets set from Paris, I had decided to spend only half the day in Paris to begin with, and then take my time with the city in the end, to ensure that I am in my final port of embarking, well in time, sans any tension of missing my flight home.
So here I was again, ready to formally begin my tryst with Paris. The next three days were going to be the most culturally enriching experience of my entire life.
Anyone who knows me well, knows that I am a total history buff. And for a person like me, Paris is a gold mine. From the gothic architectural influence splashed across the city, to the troves of treasures safely archived in the countless museums in the city. The Mona Lisa is only the tip of the iceberg, if you ask me. From David and Goliath to Van Gogh’s self portrait, this city gave me everything it promised, and then some.
Another little gem which is tucked away in the corner, just outside the city, another Must See Item from my bucket list, is the Palace of Versailles. We have all read enough about King Louis XIV’s obsession with the Palace of Versailles, which, amongst others, harbours the infamous hall of mirrors. The grandeur of the Palace and its gardens as described in books cannot even begin to do them justice. Seeing is believing, and I kid you not that my eyes were left stunned and lips gaping as soon as I chanced upon this majestic marvel.
Paris had so much to offer and I was a willing recipient!
Finding it hard to contain myself, with all that my first solo trip to Europe had given me, it was only fitting that I ended it at the foot of the Eiffel. Coming about, full circle, it was time to bid adieu to it all.
I am no longer the same person, I was 14 days prior. I will never be that person again, nor do I want to be. I lost myself in the majesties of my destinations and found myself in their hearts.
Being a little home sick was the only reason I could leave all that behind and find my way home.
With a promise to return, I hopped-on to my ever so indulgent travel accommodations en route home, with my equally eager parents waiting for my arrival, all set to hear about my adventures of a lifetime. Lucky for them, the inspiration has already led me to plan my next travel escapade, this time keeping them included in all the fun.
Happy Travels to us all!!
nish ^_^
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