There is no denying the brutality of the flight — ten hours of restless legs, a cricking neck, and countless episodes of "Friends" on a loop. But the beauty that awaits the moment the wheels of the plane collide with the runway makes every minute worth it. After all, Italy encompasses what it means to be an experience. From the cuisine to the cathedrals, the attractions, to the Aperol Spritzes, Italy specializes in beauty on and beyond its streets. Each corner held a story, each ruin a secret—Rome was a city that breathed memories. After a week spent walking its cobblestones, I can easily testify to such.
When in Rome, it is imperative to do the “touristy things”, such as throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, taking a picture in front of the Colosseum, and touring the Vatican, even if only to say you did so. The true beauty, though, lies within the stumbled-upon treasures. After tossing our coins, accompanied by a wish, my family opted to go in search of a pizza place recommended to us.
On the way, though, we stumbled upon an ancient cathedral, one unacknowledged in any travel guides or tourist pamphlets. We stepped inside, curious about the secrets of such a place, only to be awestruck by its beauty. Immense marble pillars, painted ceilings, and altars of all sorts lined the walls, it was unlike anything we had ever seen before, anything we had ever dreamed of. To this day, we still do not know its name. It is nothing more than a dreamlike cathedral lost amongst the streets of Rome for the next traveler to happen upon and fall awestruck just as we did.
After walking for hours upon hours throughout the city, stumbling upon beautiful creations we had never seen before, the peak of the experience was the discovery of either a hole-in-the-wall or rooftop bar which sat dutifully waiting for us to claim seats, and order an Aperol Spritz or two accompanied by olives, bread, crackers, and nuts. It was a wonderful time to rest, recap, and recuperate before once more going back out into the streets.
The attractions were awe-inspiring, the cathedrals were captivating, and the cuisine was an experience to which America could only aspire. We left the Southern Hospitality in the South, all the “my pleasure”s and “bless your heart”s. And yet, there was something so genuine about their kindness despite differing so much from what we are used to. The culture differs so greatly that you cannot help but be intrigued.
There is a sort of beauty in the Italian's laid-back attitude. It is almost unsettling to us Americans who live in a constant state of rushing through everything. For instance, when it comes to Italian restaurants, a server must be summoned to order and a check must be asked for, much in contrast to American casual dining. In doing so, they allow you to enjoy the experience of your meal and your company as opposed to simply dining and dashing and moving on to the next task at hand. It is a simple concept that somehow makes a world of difference in your ability to experience and appreciate in a whole new light.
Italy is truly more an experience than anything, from its enchanting streets to its slowed-down culture. Ancient stones whispered tales of gladiators and emperors. It allows you to feel alive from being surrounded by such history, beauty, and calmness. It leaves you unable to answer, “What was your favorite part of Rome?” upon returning home.
"Italy allows you to feel alive."