Rome, Italy
ESTABLISHED, ROMANTIC, FRENZIED:
On my first visit overseas at 14 years old, Rome was the first city I went to (or rather, was brought to by my dad). At 14, I was obsessed with the idea of being swept away into a glamorous European experience, my adolescent mind spinning complex narratives in which my eyes would meet a stranger’s across a charming piazza or in an austere gallery, and the rest of my life would consist of a montage of travel with an beautiful accented man who adored my adventurous spirit. Almost 15 years later I still find myself caught up in the magic that is Rome (and I am only slightly embarrassed to admit that the fantasy still holds appeal). To me, Rome will always exist as that ideal, enigmatic destination that feels simultaneously perfect and elusive.
ESTABLISHED:
During my most recent visit in Rome, I attended a tour of the Roman Forum. Our enthusiastic tour-guide explained the historical founding of the city by Romulus and Remus, infant brothers who were sons to a god and reared by a she-wolf. Together, they stood atop Palatine Hill in 753 BCE and started an empire. She went on to explain this historical significance of the ruins around us, including tales of battles, neglect, discovery, and renovation. So whether or not you believe that two babies could have floated down the Tiber into historical infamy, the archeological layers of construction, destruction, and exposure around us painted a clear historical picture that had been centuries in the making. Through every era of their empire growing, shrinking, and even collapsing, the forum had been the heart of it all – an undeniable seat of human power.
ROMANTIC:
Most Americans will agree that Europe, as a concept, is enchanting. The multitude of languages, copious wine drinking, and cobblestone streets don’t really exist on the North American continent. Something about boarding a plane or a ship, waiting for a significant and anticipatory amount of time, and then stepping off in another world is intensely appealing – and Rome is a perfect destination for the starry-eyed among us. The piazzas, the fountains, the statues, and the Italian Cypress trees (which I still call Van Gogh trees) create a background fit for an impressionist painting. The attitudes of the Romans also contribute to this enticing environment. They are passionate but not melodramatic, secure but not pedantic, and hospitable but not overwhelming. Romans enjoy life for all of the pleasures it has to offer, and encourage you to adopt a similar pursuit.
FRENZIED:
Amidst the ancient ruins, the rich gelato, and the linen suits…is a minor form of utter chaos. Between the honking Vespas, the overflowing art vendors and the inconceivably loud accordion music, it is easy to interpret Rome as an absolute mess of a place. The frenzied activity seems paradoxical. It’s as if everyone is rushing around to get somewhere better, and yet there they are, already in a historical center of human civilization. The hustle of both the locals and visitors adds to the charm of Rome, but it has an unmistakable resemblance to flies buzzing around a sealed container. There is nowhere else to get to, but the activity never ceases. I for one, hope it never will.
THE THREE THINGS YOU WILL NEED WHILE YOU’RE THERE:
Rome is a classically stylish city. The residents always look effortlessly cool and in the summer, everyone is wearing linen. Avoid identifying yourself as a tourist by donning their attire. This little dress is lightweight, breezy enough for those hot Italian summers, and stylish enough to fit right in with the Roma fasionistas.
A cross-body bag is always a great option for travel. It is difficult to steal, and keeps your hands free for picture taking! This little bag is classic and stylish, and is large enough to fit everything you will need for a day on the town in Rome, Italy.
The amazing views in Rome will turn anyone into a selfie-stick believer. In order to get the best shot of yourself at the Vatican, on the Forum, or in front of the colosseum, make sure you’ve got an arm-extender on your person!
