Off we go!

Tuesday 17th July

Plane was late leaving as we taxied out and then had to return to the gate due to a “small technical difficulty’. We left about an hour late. Flight had about 30 people sitting in the economy section, which held just under 100 – so we spread out. Most were Filipino – so no-one praying and clogging the aisles at inconvenient times. Were a couple of Saudi kids running up and down the aisles, not sitting when the seatbelt light was on – but they calmed down. One of them found Ethan and brought his ipad down – so Ethan played his ipad and he played Ethan’s DS! Flight path took us directly over the top of Rome and out to north before tracking back in to land. Had an excellent view of the Colloseum, Vatican, Pantheon and Termini Station.

Got into Rome a bit late – but driver was waiting which was good. Jacob fell asleep in the car on the drive in. Weather was great – only about 30 – felt like heaven. Room is basic but functional – small with 3 of us – would be OK with 2. Sorted out some stuff – then went for a walk in area around the hotel.

Walked up to Termini to check it out – needed to go there next day to purchase tickets. Then walked thru to Santa Maria Maggiore Church. Boys were flabbergasted at the statues and paintings on the ceiling etc – but they had to be quiet as there was a Mass in one of the side chapels and there were priests giving sacrament at another. Jacob wanted to walk away from me – so his new spot is attached to the back pocket of my jeans. Didn’t have my camera so took photos on my phone.

Santa Maria Maggiore 

Walked some more and found a little pizzeria to have dinner – pizza with real ham, garlic bread, salad and a beer for me! Walked back via the Opera House – found a home brew place and 2 stores selling the lovely Murano glass. – all sorts of different pieces. Found our way thru to the Piazza della Republica and then past a fountain and along a wide boulevard. We went to McDonalds at Termini – for ice cream and to try and hook into the free wifi – no such luck.