Rome

I must admit that Rome was never at the top of my list of must see places, and certainly wasn't at the top of Jeff's! But, I knew I really wanted to see it while we were here and decided to do a trip without Jeff and the kids. So glad I did! My friend Staci and I took advantage of the 4 day weekend to travel without our families. Visiting Rome in January may be one of the best travel decisions I've ever made! First off the city was very quiet and there were no crowds anywhere. Everything was cheap. Very cheap. Our flight (round trip) was only $50. The weather was also nice, definitely not hot but also not too cold. It did rain a bit, but without kids complaining rain doesn't matter so much. Traveling without the kids was also a good move. There is soooo much to see and do in Rome and we were able to fit in just about everything (with kids we wouldn't have accomplished half the sites). Many of the museums were also not very appropriate for young kids (we both commented on the numerous naked statues that our kids would have giggled over). Staci was a great travel companion. We had some of the best food we've ever had (including the best pizza of my life), and some very delicious cheap wine. We walked miles and enjoyed everything the city had to offer. Jeff has never been, but also didn't have much desire to visit. One day I would love to take him and the kids when they are much older and can appreciate  everything. 

Capitol Hill:

Coliseum: 

Palantine Hill:

On top of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican:

Better view:

St. Peter's Basilica:

Inside the Vatican Museum. I've been to many art museums around the World, but nothing can prepare you for the inside of the Vatican Museum or St. Peter's Basilica. I mean it literally takes your breath away. Obviously, none of these pictures do it justice.

One of our favorite things were these night strolls we took throughout the city courtesy of Rick Steves' travel book. We walked to many landmarks/fountains/churches and would duck in for a drink or food when we wanted a break. This is the Trevi Fountain and absolutely spectacular at night!