I chianti-ven believe I am in Italy!

Watching the series 'The Reluctant Traveler' acted as a catalyst for me to sit on laptop and finish up my Italy blog. There is something enjoyable about immersing ourselves in people's travel stories. Each traveler brings a distinct state of mind to a place – factors like age, companionship (whether friends, lovers, or kids), and varying life situations contribute to the diversity of experiences. The uniqueness of each one of it is my biggest motivation to share my stories, hoping to connect with fellow travellers who appreciate the myriad ways people explore this magical world.

Veni Vidi Vici

Passionate about Italian food and coffee for years brought tears on the eve before my first Europe trip. I came across Amalfi coast in a random youtube video and thought - this is where I am going. Italy! I crafted a Rome + Amalfi coast 6 day itinerary. And like a cherry on top of a cake, I got to do it with one of my closest friends! When we landed in Rome, we were greeted with a million Uber posters - but this anticipated ride could not be materialized. Waiting in the line for the regular taxi was much easier and quicker (took us about 15 mins) and was a 50 euro flat rate to anywhere around the Roma Centraal.

Rome has an urban charm with great hotel options around the Centraal. Stepping out of my comfort zone, I decided to get a hostel, first hostel experience of my life. I was hesitant at first but again I had my friend with me and we decided to go for the The RomeHello hostel. We were warmly welcomed by the sweetest guy, an Elvis Presley look-alike, who, to our delight, also had a gig one night at a local bar. The hostel's common areas facilitated enjoyable moments, hosting movie nights, karaokes and trivia games. We got a 4 people dorm and were introduced to 2 guy roommates - one of them slept shirtless both nights, the other was very chatty.

The Trevi fountain was walking distance form our hostel. It was freaking crowded but I did manage to get a picture and throw a coin. Remember, 'your back towards the fountain, throw the coin with right hand over your left shoulder!'

The restaurants around Trevi look good but they only attract tourists and have mediocre food. Venture out a bit farther away to go to the authentic Italian cafes that have the best Cacio de pepe you are looking for! You can ask (flirt with) locals for recommendations. :)

Navigating the scorching heat of Rome in August, our search for indoor activities led us to a Pasta and Tiramisu class, guided by a delightful native Italian instructor who was the epitome of cuteness. Picture a cozy class of around 15 participants, with an unexpected but charming addition - a 10-year-old kid, bringing an extra touch of warmth. We all got together to create a HUGE batch of Tiramisu and then divided it into individual jars, ensuring everyone had a piece to savor later. As the aromatic layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and velvety mascarpone came together, we couldn't help but marvel at the joyous collaboration taking place.

Eager to expand our culinary skills, we transitioned to the art of pasta-making. I always got pasta from my local Eataly store at home, the idea of making it from scratch was exciting. With a mere handful of ingredients and a willingness to get our fingers dirty, we started on our own Fettucine and Cheese Ravioli. There was simplicity in the process - no pasta making machines or fancy tools, coupled with the laughter in the room. After the class, we all sat in a big group and ate the pasta we made with a glass of wine, and tiramisu with a glass of limoncello!

This experience holds a special place in my heart. It epitomizes the beauty of people from all corners of the globe coming together to learn the art of pasta-making from a true Italian grandma. In the midst of the heat, we found a connection through the universal language of food.

The revelation of Vatican City being an independent country within Rome was indeed surprising for me. Many share the astonishment upon discovering this unique geographical and political entity. Vatican museums are an extensive collection over centuries by various popes starting early 16th century. They are a testament to the richness of human creativity and history. We opted for an express entry with the assistance of a tour guide, saving us a lot of energy by not having to wait out in the sun.

The Bramante stairs in the Vatican museums are one of the most photographed stairs.

We went to the famous Venchi for our Gelato and it was so delicious! If you are visiting in summer, be prepared to devour your gelato because sun's wrath shows no mercy, especially to your dress.

Falling for flavored tiramisus is tempting - hazelnut, strawberry, pistachio - but they were all subpar and not as fresh. Lesson learned - Reserve your tiramisu indulgence for the authentic restaurants so you get the best of your calorie limits. Don't waste those sugar intakes with mediocre dessert in Italy!

Suggestion: Pompi Tiramisu.

At last, why the name for this blog post? When me and my friend touched down Italy, Chianti 2018 Poggi Debli Uberti was the first wine bottle we indulged in and it did not disappoint! Until next time, Cin cin!