Rome and Sardinia

Rome… fabulous!

We had a great day in Rome. The Italian transport system is something that they should be proud of, except for the graffiti.

We started early and caught the train into Rome then a short hop on the Metro to the Spanish Steps and we were on our way. Four hours later and we were back on board the train trundling along the track out of Rome Termini Station. The steps, fountain, pantheon, mouth of truth, and colloseum had all been seen along with countless churches, basilicas, fountains and wonderful buildings. Our feet were aching and the heat was stifling but it was all worth it and we (without kids) will be back to sample Rome life for a longer visit in the not too distant future.

Out of all the places visited today I must say that the Pantheon was by far the most spectacular. To look up from the central brass spot and see the ceiling and the shaft of light is totally awe-inspiring. I could have spent hours inside that building, but we were on a tight schedule, worked out with military precision previous to the holiday thanks to Google and Google Maps.

Roman Holiday, starring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn has been a favourite film of mine for many years and to be able to see the famous wall plaque with it’s gaping mouth was something special, and we have the pictures to prove that our hands weren’t bitten off.

We weren’t particularly impressed with the Coliseum but it was extremely hot and we were extremely tiered by this time. There were thousands of people just like us wanting to get the best snaps and avoid the street sellers trying to peddle all sorts of tat.

Back on board with plenty of time to spare and plenty of time to cool down with ice cold beer. Debra decided that she would sample her favourite cocktail and Harvey Wallbanger flowed freely. Suffice to say she was quite tipsy by the time we were going in to get ready for our evening meal. I decided to stay as I was and have a few more beers then watch the European Cup Final. Unfortunately it seems like most of the blokes on board had the same idea and it was chocka-block in the bar showing it. I stood up for half an hour or so but my feet were aching off and I was pretty bored with the footie so I went to the pizza parlour for my tea.

I must preface this part by saying that once the lights go out in the stateroom and the curtains are closed it is as black as coal. Now, after a few drinks (well maybe a few more than a few) we were all sparked out asleep, when at 1.30 am all of a sudden Olivia started screaming at the top of her lungs, which woke Debra who sat up and started screaming at the top of her lungs too while frantically trying to find a switch to turn the bedside light on. I jumped up and began flailing around trying to get my bearings and find a switch to turn on. Eventually the lights came on and calm descended. Oscar vaguely recalls something going on but doesn’t remember the commotion.

We have had a wonderful day today in Cagliari Sardinia. Laughing our heads off at what happened last night. I think another black mark has been put against our names, oh well never mind.

We will be back here at some point too!