Anyone else just NOT "fall in love" with Rome?
Jun 15th, 2006, 05:49 PM
#43
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There are so many posts to this thread already, but I have to add my two cents! When DH and I were in Rome 4 years ago, we went almost as an obligation. We thought that there was so much history there and, since we were flying out from Rome back to the states, that we would 'do' Rome for 3 days and that's all there would be to it. DH had been there 20 or so years before and he hated it. To him, it was dirty, hot and a pain.
Before we went, I researched the city and made our itinerary, plus we made time to wander the streets. And I have to say that we both fell in love with Rome. We were there mid-May of 2002. The weather was a bit warm, but not oppressive. The city is beautiful. Yes, a bit dirty, but still beautiful. We actually found it quite magical. The difference for us, I think, is that I took the time to research what we wanted to see and therefore knew, to some degree, what we were seeing. We are going back to Italy in September for 4 weeks and plan on spending 4 1/2 days in Rome and I can't wait. I spend most of my time researching Rome and relatively little time researching Sicily and Umbria where we will also be visiting.
My advice is to research Rome and decide if what you find is appealing to you. Then wherever you decide to go, decide to have the opinion that you will be open to what you find. There may be current aspects of a location that are unappealing, but the longevity of a place and what it has meant to millions of people should count for a lot!
Before we went, I researched the city and made our itinerary, plus we made time to wander the streets. And I have to say that we both fell in love with Rome. We were there mid-May of 2002. The weather was a bit warm, but not oppressive. The city is beautiful. Yes, a bit dirty, but still beautiful. We actually found it quite magical. The difference for us, I think, is that I took the time to research what we wanted to see and therefore knew, to some degree, what we were seeing. We are going back to Italy in September for 4 weeks and plan on spending 4 1/2 days in Rome and I can't wait. I spend most of my time researching Rome and relatively little time researching Sicily and Umbria where we will also be visiting.
My advice is to research Rome and decide if what you find is appealing to you. Then wherever you decide to go, decide to have the opinion that you will be open to what you find. There may be current aspects of a location that are unappealing, but the longevity of a place and what it has meant to millions of people should count for a lot!
Jun 15th, 2006, 06:28 PM
#44
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starrsville, you should definitely go where you want to go. That said, if you love NYC, I can't imagine that you wouldn't like Rome. I loved it, although I admit I enjoy cities as well as the countryside. I do admit that I probably wouldn't want to go in the very hot, humid weather, since I don't do well in that kind of heat. I was there at the end of Sept and then the end of March, so I missed that heat.
I will definitely be going back. There is just so much to see there...
I will definitely be going back. There is just so much to see there...
Jun 15th, 2006, 06:35 PM
#45
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Starrsville cannot reply, as her screen name has been blocked---for no discernable reason.
If this is a game, Fodor's, the rules need to be explained to everyone BEFORE they are banned from playing. That is only fair!
If this is a game, Fodor's, the rules need to be explained to everyone BEFORE they are banned from playing. That is only fair!
Jun 15th, 2006, 07:17 PM
#48
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well, I hope starrsville can come back and play!
My 2 cents:
I had visited Rome 4 times, with family when I was young and then with a girlfriend when in college. I liked it, but on a 5th trip to Italy a few years ago w/ then-husband, we didn't go. I felt I had seen it, and he was more interested in northern Italy.
One year ago, returned with friends. One had lived there and adored it. One had visited as a backpacking young woman and was neutral; she doesn't like big cities much anyway. Two had never been.
The results:
-The former "resident" was still insanely in love with Rome. She wandered around with a dreamy love-struck expression and started speaking Italian again.
-The "neutral" one had a great time and still regrets not riding off on that motorcycle with our adorable waiter for a night of dancing. She was hard to keep under control, that one!
-I loved it! Something just clicked for me on this trip. I felt so at home there. Went back again at the end of the trip for two more nights.
-The two "newbies" had mixed feelings. He found it fascinating but difficult. She found it completely overwhelming and exhausting and will probably never go back.
On the other hand, all 5 of us love Venice!
My 2 cents:
I had visited Rome 4 times, with family when I was young and then with a girlfriend when in college. I liked it, but on a 5th trip to Italy a few years ago w/ then-husband, we didn't go. I felt I had seen it, and he was more interested in northern Italy.
One year ago, returned with friends. One had lived there and adored it. One had visited as a backpacking young woman and was neutral; she doesn't like big cities much anyway. Two had never been.
The results:
-The former "resident" was still insanely in love with Rome. She wandered around with a dreamy love-struck expression and started speaking Italian again.
-The "neutral" one had a great time and still regrets not riding off on that motorcycle with our adorable waiter for a night of dancing. She was hard to keep under control, that one!
-I loved it! Something just clicked for me on this trip. I felt so at home there. Went back again at the end of the trip for two more nights.
-The two "newbies" had mixed feelings. He found it fascinating but difficult. She found it completely overwhelming and exhausting and will probably never go back.
On the other hand, all 5 of us love Venice!
Jun 15th, 2006, 07:19 PM
#49
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That's probably it--Starrsville discovered that the thread had been closed. However---that was hours ago, and those two have exchanged posts on another thread since.
Well, here's hoping that the mythic Fodor's Editor(s) will consider Starrsville's evening ban a full mote of punishment and restore her registration tomorrow. She is as valuable a member of this community as exists.
Well, here's hoping that the mythic Fodor's Editor(s) will consider Starrsville's evening ban a full mote of punishment and restore her registration tomorrow. She is as valuable a member of this community as exists.
Jun 16th, 2006, 01:37 PM
#50
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Hi Madison,
We haven't been to Rome yet either. Reading this thread makes me even more curious and more anxious to get there and experience it for myself! We're also hoping to visit Naples--have you read what I read about Naples?! I remain more anxious and curious than ever!
Twinkle twinkle little Starr how I wonder how you are!
We haven't been to Rome yet either. Reading this thread makes me even more curious and more anxious to get there and experience it for myself! We're also hoping to visit Naples--have you read what I read about Naples?! I remain more anxious and curious than ever!
Twinkle twinkle little Starr how I wonder how you are!
Jun 16th, 2006, 02:13 PM
#51
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Starrsville,
Before my first trip to Italy 10 years ago, I had heard that Rome was just a crowded, dirty, polluted city with horrible traffic. So, I didn't care if we spent any of our limited time there at all! We were there just for 1 1/2 days at the end of our trip before flying home.
I LOVED, LOVED LOVED Rome! What a surprise! How amazing, so much of everything. The contrast between ancient and modern. I was absolutely blown away.
I couldn't wait to go back and finally did for 6 days on my last trip. Loved every minute of it.
Only you can decide - after you have actually been there!
Buon viaggio!
Before my first trip to Italy 10 years ago, I had heard that Rome was just a crowded, dirty, polluted city with horrible traffic. So, I didn't care if we spent any of our limited time there at all! We were there just for 1 1/2 days at the end of our trip before flying home.
I LOVED, LOVED LOVED Rome! What a surprise! How amazing, so much of everything. The contrast between ancient and modern. I was absolutely blown away.
I couldn't wait to go back and finally did for 6 days on my last trip. Loved every minute of it.
Only you can decide - after you have actually been there!
Buon viaggio!
Jun 16th, 2006, 02:26 PM
#52
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You say tomato..I say to-mah-to. I will first say that if you have never been to Rome and have the opportunity, you would be a fool not to go. Having said that, I did NOT love Rome. I wish I had been able to stay a few days longer to see a few more things. It is an amazing city, the history, the buildings. People in that city walk under aquaducts that are thousands of years old as an everyday occurance. I was just awestruck. But, I just did not love it and it's not on my short list to return, which is why I'm sorry I didn't have a bit longer there.
Jun 16th, 2006, 03:04 PM
#55
I don't know whether I fell in love with Rome, but I did find it one of the most amazing places I have ever been. The layers of civilization stacked on top of each other and laid bare for all to see, the sheer quantity of things to see, the massive size of the ruins, the juxtaposition of the modern and the ancient, it takes my breath away. I would certainly go back, but "fall in love"? I don't have the visceral attachment many posters here have to Rome. But I would not have missed it for the world, and I hope I get to go again.
Jun 16th, 2006, 04:16 PM
#56
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I fell in love with Paris the first time I visited as a teenager and my opinion has never altered in my subsequent 20+(?) visits. I feel comfortable there – its like a home away from home.
I am fascinated by Rome and will always return, but I recognize that it is a “difficult” city for some to love. Sometimes I love Rome, sometimes I just adore it, but I will never stop admiring or visiting it. I love history and therefore cannot ignore that it was the centre of Western civilization for so long.
Interestingly, a colleague asked for advice on her first visit to Europe, which included both Paris and Rome. I warned her that she might not love Rome at first, from everything that I have experienced and read, but to persevere and at least try to enjoy it. Turns out she HATED Paris and LOVED Rome.
Anyway Starsville, you should not feel guilty about skipping Rome. Like you, I prefer the countryside and small towns to the big cities. I think Rome should be seen at least twice in one’s life, but feel it is best appreciated as a trip on its own, rather than being shared with other Italian experiences.
I am fascinated by Rome and will always return, but I recognize that it is a “difficult” city for some to love. Sometimes I love Rome, sometimes I just adore it, but I will never stop admiring or visiting it. I love history and therefore cannot ignore that it was the centre of Western civilization for so long.
Interestingly, a colleague asked for advice on her first visit to Europe, which included both Paris and Rome. I warned her that she might not love Rome at first, from everything that I have experienced and read, but to persevere and at least try to enjoy it. Turns out she HATED Paris and LOVED Rome.
Anyway Starsville, you should not feel guilty about skipping Rome. Like you, I prefer the countryside and small towns to the big cities. I think Rome should be seen at least twice in one’s life, but feel it is best appreciated as a trip on its own, rather than being shared with other Italian experiences.
Jun 16th, 2006, 05:57 PM
#57
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I am planning a two week trip to Italy (Florence mostly - couple of days in Venice and CT) and have been "waffling" about Rome. I don't mind big cities, and crowds don't really bother me, and I feel like I have to make ONE trip to the Vatican (though I am not Catholic).
Having been in Italy last year and not getting to Rome, I feel somewhat guilty about not really wanting to go this time..or more like...I will have to give up either the CT or Venice (and I have been to neither) for Rome...and I don't know WHEN I will get back to Italy.....
It helps to hear both sides - love and don't love it....but it also makes me more confused!!!
Keep posting!
Having been in Italy last year and not getting to Rome, I feel somewhat guilty about not really wanting to go this time..or more like...I will have to give up either the CT or Venice (and I have been to neither) for Rome...and I don't know WHEN I will get back to Italy.....
It helps to hear both sides - love and don't love it....but it also makes me more confused!!!
Keep posting!
Jun 16th, 2006, 06:09 PM
#58
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I love Rome and feel so at home in Rome. But that is just me. And my daughter feels the same way, which is good since she married a Roman. But we all like different places and what is special for one person is a nightmare for someone else. I do enjoy large cities more than the countryside (although I enjoy the countryside for a few days).
My only suggestion is to visit Rome if you have not been there. And don't just give yourself a couple of days, especially if you have jetlag. Rome can be overwhelming especially if you are feeling in a daze due to a long flight or if you have been bouncing from spot to spot during an European trip.
With just a few days in Rome most travellers feel like they have to visit all the required sites and sights.
If you spend enough time in Rome to just relax and enjoy Rome, walk away from the touristy areas, slow down and just get the true feel of Rome there is a good possibility you will love this ancient, vibrant and beautiful city.
But most travellers do not have the time for this, especially US travellers, thanks to the short vacation time that most US employees have.
Happy travels to everyone!
My only suggestion is to visit Rome if you have not been there. And don't just give yourself a couple of days, especially if you have jetlag. Rome can be overwhelming especially if you are feeling in a daze due to a long flight or if you have been bouncing from spot to spot during an European trip.
With just a few days in Rome most travellers feel like they have to visit all the required sites and sights.
If you spend enough time in Rome to just relax and enjoy Rome, walk away from the touristy areas, slow down and just get the true feel of Rome there is a good possibility you will love this ancient, vibrant and beautiful city.
But most travellers do not have the time for this, especially US travellers, thanks to the short vacation time that most US employees have.
Happy travels to everyone!
Jun 18th, 2006, 08:07 PM
#59
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Have been to Rome several times. Enjoyed the city as a teenager, since it was my first European jaunt. Loved it then. Went back 20 years later (after traveling around the world). Couldn't wait to leave, and stayed in my hotel room most of the time, because it was at least 2,000 degrees outside. I'm sure I'll return, but it will never be on my "top 10" list of favorite
places... maybe not even "top 50"!!
places... maybe not even "top 50"!!
Jun 18th, 2006, 09:02 PM
#60
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I have to add my two cents on Rome.I had a long vacation there over 25 years ago and although I have a history degree, I thought that it was interesting and alluring place but definitely "not my favorite city". It reminded me of New York City with the noises/dirty streets and too much congestion (and I am from Chicago).I generally enjoy the slower pace and smaller cities overseas when traveling.
During the past three years, I have been blessed to have the chance of flying to Rome several times a month for a short 20 hour layover.I have found during these past years that even if I do nothing but go to the grocery store,walk around,shop a little and then have a bite to eat-Rome seduces me.It has everything that could possibly annoy you but also has everything that says its magical. Even something as simple as walking along and seeing the red geraniums hanging out of the window boxes or little boys playing soccer in the street make me thrilled to be there. I still feel the "oh my God its the colosseum and the forum as our crew bus passes them each week!Although I studied in Florence for a semester in college and have traveled alot through Italy , the want of returning to Rome is almost addictive.
Starrsville-you don't have to visit Rome when going to Italy but I do think that you haven't seen Italy until you have seen Rome and experienced its seducing powers!
During the past three years, I have been blessed to have the chance of flying to Rome several times a month for a short 20 hour layover.I have found during these past years that even if I do nothing but go to the grocery store,walk around,shop a little and then have a bite to eat-Rome seduces me.It has everything that could possibly annoy you but also has everything that says its magical. Even something as simple as walking along and seeing the red geraniums hanging out of the window boxes or little boys playing soccer in the street make me thrilled to be there. I still feel the "oh my God its the colosseum and the forum as our crew bus passes them each week!Although I studied in Florence for a semester in college and have traveled alot through Italy , the want of returning to Rome is almost addictive.
Starrsville-you don't have to visit Rome when going to Italy but I do think that you haven't seen Italy until you have seen Rome and experienced its seducing powers!
