Le note da Roma e Napoli

Roma

Gli stranieri, the strangers…this is how Romans refer to the hordes, and it is hordes, of tourists that crawl all over the city. Both being one of them and watching how i turisti behave I’ve noticed the following:

Americans: While not physically the biggest (they grow them quite tall Down Under), we are generally the loudest. Even though Italians are famed for their jovial nature, conversations in restaurants tend to be quiet and confined to a table sounding a lot like the adults in Peanuts. Sadly, you can always use your ears to spot the Americans. Also, least able to share a sidewalk.

British (and this includes the Aussies): Tend to be kitted out as if they are going to spend a week surviving in the woods. I have no idea what is in those packs but whatever may come, they are well prepared. Though I have to say, they’re also quite friendly and willing to engage those they don’t know.

Dutch: After the Germans, the most driven group of tourists. If it’s there to see, by God they’re going to see it, and they don’t seem any too happy about it either.

Germans: They have an agenda. It will be accomplished.

French: Are apparently just as rude abroad as they are rumored to be in France.

Japanese: The Japanese are here. How can you tell? Because they are everywhere, they’re all together, and they’re walking opposite the normal direction of traffic for a right hand drive country the entire time. Tolerable Hawaii, not so much here.

The Sites

The Trevi Fountain (and gelato) is just as impressive in person as it is on film. Try the gelato. I dare you to eat all all of the dozen gelaterias that ring this historic site.

The Pantheon is the opposite in intent from St. Peter’s Basilica: open and in touch with the elements where St. Peter’s seeks to exclude anything not sanctioned by the Church.

Do stick your hand in La Bocca de Verita if you get a chance. One picture per person, though, and enjoy the extremely spartan church that houses this famous pagan artifact in its portico.

The accomodations

Dear Rome,

We have this lovely thing in the rest of the world called a toilet seat. It makes sitting on the bowl a less unpleasant experience. Oh, wait, having those would imply the existence of public toilets (even pay ones). When in Rome, or Naples, learn to hold it.

I’m not kidding.

Napoli

If Rome is Manhattan, Naples is the Bronx. A working port, Naples is small, hot, dirty, crowded, and a bit scary. Oh, yes, and they’re storing all their construction equipment in the piazzas. No, really…all their construction equipment.

Given that my father’s people were from here, I wanted Naples to be more than just the best pizza I’ve ever had. I’m a bit sad that it wasn’t.

Now…on to Florence!