A Reunion in Rome - Italy

We were very excited about our next destination, Rome, the capital city of Italy, which we had visited four times before, but this time, it wasn't about the city; it was a reunion with a dear friend we had not seen in about ten years.

We drove into Rome from Caprarola and deposited the car, then checked into Hotel Mancino 12, our hotel, which is about ten minutes from Trevi. However, it was a difficult find, as Rome is still experiencing overtourism, and the average nightly cost is about $500 AUD for nothing special. We secured a lovely hotel offering 59% off the €700 nightly rate, making it an affordable option for a short getaway.

The first night was spent on pre-dinner drinks and dinner with our lovely friends; it was as if no time had passed. We fell into old habits, with story-sharing beginning. We even had an agenda for two days to ensure nothing was missed.

Dinner was at a bustling little traditional Italian restaurant called Colline Emiliane, which appeared to be a must-visit for all visitors to Rome. The quaint little place was bursting at the seams, and the servers also felt the pressure. Hence, the dinner was speedy, and they couldn't wait to turn your table over, so we added on post-dinner drinks at a beautiful, spacious, chilled bar, relishing that we were all together in Roma.

The next day, we had the place to ourselves as the girls were off on a fresh pasta-making experience, so we took advantage of heading back to our favourite restaurant, just Via Condotti, Life Ristorante.

Life Ristorante is our happy place in Roma. If you want to escape the intensity of foot traffic and tourists, find Life and enjoy a peaceful setting. Each dish will leave you wanting to continue, and the service is exceptional. This is our third visit in five years.

Before our dinner plans, we took the opportunity to meet up with another friend from Oz, who was working at a fabulous Rooftop Bar at 9Hotel Cesàri & Terrazza just near the Trevi Fountain, so a short walk. It was paradise, another hidden gem away from the crowds; I'm sure you're getting the theme here. Wayne and Sal don't play well with too many others at a time, and they love the peaceful nature of a destination and being tucked away from the crowds! Meeting up with Pietro and enjoying a bottle of champagne was an absolute joy, overlooking the Roma cityscape as the sun set, and loving that we were randomly able to catch up with an old friend. Thank you, Pietro!

Dinner was in the Jewish quarter at Piperno Restaurant, tucked away in a deep, dark alley. We were happy that the restaurant had a beautiful outdoor terrace where we could relax and savour the city surroundings and sounds. It was a unique setting and a lovely evening again, full of stories and laughter. We felt grateful to be in Rome, enjoying food, wine, and the ambience.

Time might pass, but no matter how much time, good friends always pick up where they left off. It truly is a memorable experience to spend time together in places other than your home country. The experience you all share is something you all hold very close to your hearts. Thank you, Kate and Kim, for having us tag along on your Roma trip; we love you!!

Due to over-tourism, Rome is best avoided during the summer months. The intensity of the heat and the city is overwhelming and far from relaxing, so we recommend the shoulder!

A Reunion in Rome - Italy

Date visited: 21 September 2023