Setting: Out on the tarmac at JFK airport waiting to take off. Pilot: "Ladies and gentlemen, JFK airport is closed due to severe thunderstorms. We are the 50th plane in line for take off and as soon as we're able to get clearance from air traffic control, we can take off." Fast Forward 6 hours we are finally on our way. The adventure continue as I hop in the taxi upon arrival in Rome. Cars stay in their own lanes like rocks in an avalanche. There's more clearance between connecting BART trains than there are between cars going 65 mph. And, stop signs serves no real purpose but a mere suggestion. The highlight of this segment in Rome was an underground tour (Scavi Tour) of the necropolis beneath St. Peters Basilica. You can see the spot where St. Peter's bones are placed. Visitors are limited to only 200 a day and is not available through tour operators. To book the Scavi Tour, you have to e-mail the Vatican offices directly and hope there's space available. We got lucky. Really lucky. Unfortunately no photos allowed.
The Colosseum
Castle St. Angelo - across the Tiber River dividing Rome and Vatican City. Anyone read Dan Brown's Angels and Demons?
Got lost walking around, then of course it started to rain.
Flower Stand - Campo di Fiore
Key(hole) to the City - Top of the Spanish Steps, aptly named for the Spanish Consulate at the bottom. Don't even try to take photos - they mean business.
Gelato everyday, sometimes had gelato 2 or 3 times a day
The Tiber river and separates Rome and Vatican City.
The Trevi Fountain - as you approach the fountain, you will hear it before you see it. Tossing a coin backwards into the fountain will ensure your return to Rome.
Swiss Guard at the Vatican
Vatican Museum - Like the Louvre in Paris, don't attempt to see it all in one visit. It's that big. Instead opt for a private guide who can tailor your tour based on what your interests are.