Hellenic Parliament

We walked from Monastiraki to Syntagma Square. It's always busy here so it's a good place to people watch. Found a bench and sat there for awhile. 

Finally got up from sitting and climbed the stairs up to see the Hellenic Parliament.

We saw a crowd of people starting to gather in front of the entrance and I knew that it was almost time for the changing of the guards.

It was interesting to watch the guards perform the ceremony in their uniforms. I applaud them for enduring the heat while wearing their full uniform. 

15 Random Observations of Rome

It was my first time to visit Rome last year but it certainly won't be the last as this city has a lot to offer and I barely scratched the surface.

You can read about my random observations series here.

1. Tourists sites are so close to each other.
2. It's hard to distinguish the locals to the tourists.
3. Buses, trains, and streetcars are always packed.
4. It's better to walk.
5. No one "poops and scoops". Dog poop's are everywhere so always watch your step.
6. Cobblestone streets are deadly.
7. Never leave your belongings unattended. Pick pockets are everywhere.
8. Sirens are everywhere and it's blaring any time of day/night.
9. Breakfast is non-existent.
10. No shortage of churches.
11. Men are always well dressed.
12. Prepare to eat several courses for dinner.
13. Cacio e pepe is simply amazing!
14. Aperitivo is taken seriously (try aperol spritz!)
15. You need to validate your tickets when using public transportation.

Monument of Victor Emmanuel II

One of the most iconic monuments in Rome is the Victor Emmanuel II. You can't miss it even if you're not looking specifically for this building. You just somehow find these places in Rome. It is very close to Piazza Venezia. It's quite an impressive monument built by Giuseppe Sacconi in honour of Victor Emmanuel. 

It's a massive monument towering in Rome built with corinthian columns and grand statues (especially of Victor Emmanuel on a horse)! It's very grandiose and in your face structure amidst the ancient structures and ruins in Rome. You can walk around inside and outside the monument. And there is also a terrace upstairs with restaurants and cafe so you can enjoy the view. If you want to see more panoramic view of Rome, you can opt to pay to take the elevator all the way up the building (entrance is at the back of the building to take the elevator). I opted not to do this as I was quite satisfied with the view from the terrace. 

Trastevere

My love for this area in Rome is impalpable. I loved staying in Trastevere and this is the main reason why I had a great trip in Rome and why I rave so much about it. It's always fun to look back on happy memories. 

It's been a difficult few months for me with a lot of changes that came into my life this year. A lot of moving happened which created a lot of stress and worries. I'm still waiting for everything to settle down and let myself get back to "normal" again. I'm just going to blame the mercury retrograding, haha. Joking aside, I heard that spring is difficult for a lot of people and I'm just sending out some good vibes to everyone who may be having a difficult transition. It will get easier and better. Hang in there. 

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere

The Basilica of Santa Maria (Trastevere) is one of the oldest churches in Rome. I have been to a lot of churches all over Europe but nothing quite like this one. The carved ceiling is very impressive. I tried to photograph it as best as I could but I can't do justice to it. You will have to see in person and be in awe. The ceiling is very intricate and detailed. And everything is gilded in gold!
What's more impressive than that? The mosaic on the front altar!

Definitely come visit this church if you are in Rome! 

Rome

I don't know why it's taking me forever to start writing about Italy. My head is still there. I'm pining for the streets of Trastevere and Naples. I didn't expect to fall in love again (story of my life). But boy oh boy did I. I had no expectations about Italy. I knew it was going to be great because I can finally see all the art that I've been dreaming about since highschool but I didn't know I was going to fall in love with the people too! 

I guess I have enough love to go around..or something like that because there you have it. I'm head over heels about Italy and especially the dog and tomatoes in Naples. Who falls in love with a strange dog or tomatoes? 

Just me. 

Rome is better on foot. You get a great workout and you're not waiting for the bus/train that is packed all the time. Trust me, just walk! It's better for you and less likely that you will get pick pocketed while on a full bus. 

Hope you are having a great start for 2016! A lot more of Italy coming up.