ED Trip Report

Alright, I'm back in the states with Internet access and can continue my trip report. Not as real-time as I would have liked but I didn't think my stories were worth $24 / day!

I've already covered the pickup and drive to Florence here:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=118702

On the way to Florence I did observe, as others have noted, that Italian drivers really have trouble staying within the lines. I think most of the time they cross the line on purpose and just feel they can use as much road as they feel necessary. They REALLY take this to an extreme inside the cities! Driving in Florence was a learning experience but one that would serve me well while driving in Rome.

The drive down to Rome was enjoyable but non-eventful. I didn't drive too fast given their speed limits and the amount of traffic on the road. We were staying at the Marriott Grand Hotel Flora in the city near Villa Borghese and it was slow going getting into the city.

It's crazy how they drive there - if you don't have nerves of steel and a somewhat aggressive nature, it would be very challenging. At a traffic circle or need to merge? No one's going to let you in - you aren't going anywhere unless you force yourself into the flow, and if it takes you too long to get up the nerve, the drivers behind you will let you know they're not too happy. The scooters and motorcycles clearly have NO rules. They certainly don't have lanes - if there's room for them to fit, then it's fair game. Stop sign? Oh well. Need to go into the opposing lane of travel to get around traffice? No problem, the cars will yield. They are constantly weaving and cutting, it's amazing anyone on a scooter has a lifespan greater than 5 years on the road.

A majority of cars on the road in the cities are smart cars or of similar size. An e60 is a very big car for driving around Rome. Once we got in town (about 7 and dark), we decided to drive around to the obvious spots (Colosseo, etc.) and get a feel for the lay of the land. It was fun, I kind of like driving with no rules, but I'm amazed I escaped that city with no scratches or dents (it was not uncommon to see cars with dented panels).

Finally went to the hotel, where they let me park out front while we checked in and settled in the room. Later took the car myself to their parking garage a couple of blocks away. Still had to leave the key with the guy there since they park them tight and have to move them to let cars in and out. I found better parking later on in the city where you can keep your keys.

Pics:

1) 100 MPH just comes so easliy
2) Vittorio Emmanuele II monument
3) Piazza across from monument
4) Smart car
5) Monument again

Reply » ED Trip Report

Welcome back. Sounds like it was a great trip - and you made it through Italia without a scratch, no easy task.

It gets confusing when you get back - I woke up this morning thinking I have to hurry before the breakfast buffet closes downstairs. Alas...

Reply » ED Trip Report

Got up the next day and enjoyed a nice breakfast downstairs - absolutely the best coffee I think I've ever had. Breakfast was included in the price of the room, which I had secured through a combination of points and $$. Was lucky enough to get upgraded to a suite at check-in.

Headed out of the hotel for a day of much walking! The Marriott's in a great location right next to the Aurelian Wall and not far from the Spanish Steps. Just cross the street to enter the underground tunnel leading to the trains and you can walk out right next to the base of the Spanish Steps.

From there we walked to see Trevi Fountain, which was crowded as it usually is. Wandered through the streets towards the Trojan and Roman Forums, Colosseo, etc., eating lunch on the way. On the trip I made a point of trying different pizzas from the different Italian cities but probably ended up overeating because of it (had to try pasta and other dishes as well)! Good thing I was walking 4 miles or so a day...

Pics:

1) Rome Marriott Gr. Hotel Flora
2) Tunnel leading to the Spanish Steps
3) Spanish Steps
4) Trevi Fountain
5) Trojan Forum

Reply » ED Trip Report

Quote:

Thanks, looks like you had fun as well. I know what you mean about adjusting, it gets tough. I've also been fighting a cold I caught in Germany so that makes it even more fun... sigh....

Reply » ED Trip Report

After checking out the Trojan Forum, we moved across the street to climb the VE II monumnet, which has pretty good views of the city all around from the top (not to mention museums, food, toilettes). They also have the tomb of the unknown soldier part way up.

Coming down off the backside of it you can get to the Roman Forum, which is an absolutely fascinating place (but I'll spare you the details in the interest of time).

Pics:

1) VE II Monument
2) Roman Forum
3) Roman Forum
4) View of Rome from VEII
5) Roman Forum

Reply » ED Trip Report

At the other end of the forum you'll find the Arch of Constantine and the Colosseo. Suffice it to say we toured it and it was awesome (there's also a underground stop here for those looking to take the train). I will also add that we literally walked right in with no wait. This was a great time of year to tour Italy as the crowds are very light and you can see and do so much more in a given day (not to mention find hotels cheaper, parking, etc.)

Sheez, I'm going to have to continue this later and I'm only on day 3. I'll try to cut back on the details and just post pics, don't want to bore anyone.

Sorry there haven't been more car pics but it was parked most of the time in Rome! They're coming....

Ahead: The Pope - Live!, the Vatican, Pantheon, Pisa, Germany, and if I'm not too embarrased my Czech Republic border crossing story.

Pics:

1,2,4) Colosseo
3) Arch of Constantine

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