Being stuck at home during quarantine has given me so much time to think back on my life’s greatest memories, whether that includes lots of laughter or traveling around Europe. I am an old soul, and there is no-where in the world that makes me happiest than being in Italy. There are still so many places in Italy I haven’t visited but I’m definitely putting that at the top of my post quarantine must-go list. As I was going through these pictures and going down memory lane, I remembered my first time visiting Italy a few years back and how much I was in awe of the culture, the beautiful architecture and of course the endless pasta (which I did not deprive myself of)!
Every corner I looked I was stunned at how authentic and picturesque everything was. I, like you, am counting the days until life goes back to normal so I can go back here and spend some time in an effortlessly scenic city.
WHERE TO GO
Castel Sant'angelo
I was at a loss for words when I first laid my eyes on this beautifully scary piece of art, why you may ask? Because it looks like Lord Voldemort! (a reference only Harry Potter fans would appreciate), I was so mesmerised and scared all at once because I felt like I was standing face-to-face with Lord Voldemort (he who must not be named). Whether you are an HP fan or not, Castel Santa’ngelo will take your breath away with its scenic views overlooking the city.
Fontana Di Trevi
Just as breath taking in person as it is through pictures! I cannot tell you how many times I have pictured myself throwing a coin into the water and making a wish. Am I the only one that’s watched The Lizzie McGuire Movie, When In Rome and Eat Pray Love about a million times? (I hope not) Each of these movies represents a different chapter of my life but they all have something in common, a girl throwing a coin into the fountain, making a wish and hoping it comes true. My pre-teen self, teen self and my adult self were all happy with the outcome.
When I was finally there, taking it all in, I realised I didn’t actually have any coins with me but thankfully someone came to the rescue and I was finally able to live a life-long dream of making a wish by Fontana Di Trevi, and it.felt.good.
St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
Pictures do not do this place justice. The amount of detail in every corner of St. Peter’s Basilica shows that it is truly a labour of love. It was a special moment for me to witness people from all over the world, different cultures and different ethnicities, coming together to embrace the beauty of architecture and faith.
Colosseum
Walking around the Colosseum felt like taking a tour in history. Every corner tells a story, every missing stone tells a tale. It's a great feeling to walk through somewhere knowing that its been there for centuries on end. Millions of people visit the Colosseum every year and it's a must for a travel to Rome.
Piazza Navona
This has to be my favorite place in Rome. Crowded? yes. But also perfect in it's own way. From the cozy restaurants and coffee shops surrounding the area, to the artists painting live water colour art and selling it to onlookers, it was my perfect Eat Pray Love moment. If you are an artist or an art collector, or simply have an appreciation of art, this is the place for you. I was lucky enough to have several conversations with the artists in Piazza Navona and was surprised that most of them are not Italian, they are people that followed their dreams and got on a one-way ticket to Italy to pursue their passion; art.
A DRIVE AWAY
Positano
Clear water, blue skies and happiness. The perfect destination to let go of the worlds troubles, to breathe fresh air and live in the moment. I could sense the happiness in the air from all my surroundings, and when you feel that energy, you give it back. It's such a feel good place, there really are no better words to describe it. Whether its your go-to honeymoon destination, family trip or a friends adventure, its an all encompassing destination. I would go back a hundred times if I could. Also, it's just a 3 hour drive from Rome if you want to escape the city for the day!
I hope these pictures bring hope to you in these challenging times. Things will get better and I'll see you in my future travels.
- REEM INK
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