http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16158401/

Interesting that The New York Times just had a Sunday article about touring Rome in 36 hours.

Now we have a piece about doing the Eternal City in 24 hours.

So what comes next: Rome in a half-day? Rome in a New York-minute? Rome ...

Oh my goodness! Are the crowds really that bad in the summer months as on the picture?? I was there a few years ago in March and the streest were pretty empty! And no line to get in the Vatican museum. Guess that's the benefit to going in off season. I knew it was less tourists but never realized how much!

I saw crowds that bad in early January 2005, because of the Christmas / New Year / Epiphany season.

I don't think the article is up to date on the latest Vatican policies.

And I saw the same crowds in <i>late</i> January (due to the sales, I assume)! Via Condotti looked just like that photo.

The crowds in some areas (especially on weekends) can be crazy. This is especially true on Via Condotti and the Spanish Steps. I generally avoid that area from Friday to Monday.