Pickpockets, Sights, and Travel

 

Trevi Fountain
Rome, Italy
May 12, 2024

Chris was targeted twice by pickpockets and survived with no losses. We almost caught the most recent attempt in progress. 

Pickpockets are brutal in Rome. 

Fortunately, although Chris was carrying her purse, nothing valuable was inside. The purse was more of a decoy to protect where Chris was actually caring her valuables. The purse was being used as a place to hold her sunglasses and a couple other small items which were not what the pickpockets were after. 

Crowd at Trevi Fountain
Rome, Italy
MAy 12, 2024

We were on the Metro headed to Trevi Fountain when the most recent pickpocket attempt occurred.

Arriving at the fountain we were amazed at its  beauty, but it was also massively crowded. I understand why the locals believe that the tourists are robbing them of enjoying their local sights and monuments. 

From on top the Spanish Steps
Rome, Italy
May 12, 2024

We mastered the Metro and were able to get from our lodging to the area of the fountain expeditiously and inexpensively. From there we went on to the Spanish Steps.

Chris and I walked up the, I am told 135, steps to the top to enjoy the view of the city and the Piazza di Spagna. The view was beautiful, especially on the glorious weather day we experienced. 

Me at Angie's Restaurant Pizzeria
Rome, Italy
May 12, 2024

After exploring the high end hotels located near the top of the stairs we descended and looked for a place to enjoy a glass of wine and a mid-afternoon meal. We found a restaurant with a view of Spanish Square to enjoy a Mother's Day meal of authentic pasta and wine. By the time we finished our meal, the Piazza di Spagna was filled with people.

Today marks the end of our time in Rome until the very last night of our vacation. We head off to the cruise port later to board a ship for our cruise vacation. I have to admit that I am looking forward to the cruise because I don't have to ensure the logistics of getting from one place to another. For instance, this morning I have to get us from our lodging to the Termini Rail Station and then on the correct train to get to the cruise port, which is over an hour away. But wait--then I have to make sure we get off at the right stop!

 Ah, the joys of travel. 

-- Bob Doan, Rome, Italy