Day 9 Rome

Another early start and drive through the ancient and modern streets of Rome to arrive at the entrance to the Vatican City. Having previously visited the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum we had decided not to take this optional tour but instead spend our own time exploring the area surrounding the Vatican. We note the fast growing length of the queue and it is only 8.30 am! Those from our tour who are doing that excursion were in a priority queue to get in.

We enter St Peters Square and then the clear blue sky turns black and thunder resounds and down it comes! In torrents. The umbrella and plastic poncho sellers come out from everywhere 'you buy you buy' . Of course the poncho and galoshes we purchased in Venice are back at the hotel in our suitcase! We buy an extra umbrella.

Sheltering in the colonnade of the Vatican we pity those in the long queue and Ray fills the time talking cricket to some English folk 'as you do'! After the rain with other tour participants we have a coffee and then stroll up away from the Vatican towards the Palace of the Angels in the ever present crowds of tourists.

It is time to meet the coach ready for the journey from the Christian side of Rome to the archeological side, the Colosseum and amazing sites surrounding it. However our local guide, Christina, tries a little trick to save time loading us on the coach in a 'no standing' area and next we are entertained with a heated exchange between Christina and the Polizia delaying our departure somewhat. The upshot was only a fine of 28 euros despite all the tour members resolving to contribute to whatever fine she was incurring. Our guide tells us usually the Polizia would turn a blind eye but this officer must have had a bad night to be so grumpy.

Ah the Colosseum what can you say! We stroll around this great old MCG of ancient times and enjoy a pizza and beer lunch in a cafe looking across at it. Then it is back to our hotel for some much appreciated free time. Tonight is a dress up dinner.

 

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