Roma

Colosseum -> Pompeii _> Vatican -> Rome -> Wow!

So first day I got in I met up with people from Venice! How random and awesome is that! All in the same hostel again without knowing where we were each staying. Smallest world.

Had an amazing day of random random Rome events. Riding the subway 3 times without ever going anywhere. Having a cold beverage while doing the last ride as well. Got a tattoo. Ha, fooled you. One of the group did, but I did not. Walked all around, came upon an actually famous square without realizing it until the next day. Ooops, guess that travel map I got isn't useful unless used. Had a great authentic Italian meal in a restaurant where we were the only Americans. Spent the night having a great time with new friends. Unfortunately it was 2 of our 4 group's last night traveling.

Next day got started late. Which there's nothing wrong with since this is a vacation. Had a wonderful morning though! Eventually made my way to the Colosseum in the afternoon. That is such a wonderful place filled with so much history. It's sad how it was systematically dismantled, but it adds character (like it needs any). Did the audio guide, but should have gotten a guided tour (as I realize after doing the Vatican). Had an entertaining night talking about the world with people I've never met. No idea what time that ended but I guess that's the point.

Following day saw the City of Pompeii or what's left of it. What? Too soon? I had no idea how expansive of a place that was. There's so much destruction, it's amazing there remains what's left. Took a lot of pictures as you'll see. It was an amazing place and I'm really glad I got a chance to see it. It's quite a ways from Rome, so it was a full day trip.

Today I did the Vatican. Huge as well, I took a guided tour. Had a funny Canadian leading it. Good times. Saw the Seventeenth Chapel. Which not many people see as they always give so much credit the the one before it ;) Just kidding. The Sistine Chapel was breathtaking. It's so unfortunate you can't get closer to it and really see the amazing-ness up close. The Vatican Museums are so expansive. Some of the most amazing statues I've ever seen (and have ever been created). The history of some of them just baffles the mind. Like how a statue can be lost for 1000 years, and then be found buried in the ground. Just crazy. I'm really glad I did the guided tour, it adds so much to knowing what you're walking by.

Currently I am on a train (isn't technology grand). I've changed my plans though. I'm now traveling to England! I'm going to see the family, hang out in London for a few days after, then come back to Paris. I want to make sure I get a chance in England, and this was the only way to really guarantee seeing what I wanted. Long train ride ahead of me, stops in Milano and Paris, then Chunnel to London. On that note, I will sign off. Wish everyone well. Ciao!