Solo Travel Destination: Rome, Italy
We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Nikki, a member of the Solo Travel Society. Nikki is from the United States, and submitted the following report about Rome, Italy. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 2 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: Italian, English
Don't forget to toss a coin in Trevi Fountain to guarantee your return!
Reasons to go: The Vatican City is a destination in itself! I spent four hours there with a lovely tour guide in a small group of just myself and another couple. Our guide allowed us to skip the long line and with his Master’s in Ancient History, I felt as though I could point at anything and he would explain. Statues, tapestries, paintings – I walked around with my mouth hanging open in awe for nearly three hours.
The Colosseum is a sight in itself, but walking around the Roman forum allows you to almost picture the scenes that went down. I didn’t take a tour, but merely walked around picturing the emperors and ministry that stood at that very spot. It’s hard to turn a corner without falling into another ancient ruin. Amazing to wander, grab a gelato from a nearby stand and sit for a while and daydream!
Great shopping! Despite several warnings, most of the shops are open on Sunday except for a siesta period from 13:00 – 14:00. Luckily, I opted for a late lunch and sat by the lovely Trevi fountain while I waited for the shops to re-open.
Being a lady in Italy…well, it’s a different experience in itself. “Ciao bella!” can often be heard following you as you wander through the street. Smile graciously and enjoy the compliments!
Cappuccino and a mimosa on the terrace. A perfect breakfast!
Hugging the emperor in the Vatican City gardens.
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety - 2 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language - 2 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 1 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 2 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 2 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)
