However, Venice is small, compact and I can 'case out' muster points before the tours begin and they wind up at locations where I know how to navigate 'home' to my hotel.
Rome on the other hand is another case altogether. It is a huge metropolis simply bursting with energy and life.
I do not feel nearly as comfortable wandering around on my own in that place, no matter how tempting it would be. It is too chaotic.
One guidebook I used - sorry Rick, I can't remember if it was one of yours! - gave a recommendation on how to cross a street in Rome. It said to 'be bold'. It said to 'step out into the street with confidence'. It also advised that if possible to try and cross 'with a group of nuns'.
Nevertheless, I couldn't leave without visiting the Borghese Gallery. The last time I was in Rome we tried to get tickets, thinking that arranging it 5 or 6 days in advance would be sufficient. However, not the case. SO (very tumultuous deep breath), I have arranged to stay one day following the tour to allow me to visit this incredible gallery.
Going solo with Rick Steves
You will love the Borghese Gallery. In regards to crossing the streets in Rome, we did not have a problem. Cars obey the traffic signals more or less. Do not try and cross against the light or Italian tempers will flare. It was in Sicily that we found we could become road kill. Ed tried to cross with confidence, and I piped up from behind saying, "I don't they are going to stop, don't do it." After that experience we crossed only with native Sicilians. I read an article that said that scooters do not have to stop for red lights. It does keep one on his/her toes! Heather
ReplyDeleteWhen we were in Rome I did follow that advice - well, everything except crossing with a group of nuns - they were never around when you needed them! It worked - I stepped boldly out (split infinitive not withstanding) and lo and behold the traffic stopped. If I hesitated, though, no luck and I'd jump back to the curb. Test of nerves.
ReplyDeleteFrom your description, I dinna think I want to try it in Sicily though. (Where I hope perhaps to take my next tour, God willing AND depending upon how much I enjoy this escorted tour, my first.)
:) :D
I never had problems crossing the street in Sicily; Naples, on the other hand, is a different story. But it is so worth visiting ... if only to see the Caravaggio's.
ReplyDeleteIf this tour goes well I am considering more Rick Steves tours... possibly Sicily or southern Italy. The latter goes to Naples... Caravaggio - yah! Naples? Apart from crossing the street, it doesn't have the best reputation, though. Is there some sort of long standing garbage strike or something? Or does my memory mistake me?
ReplyDeleteNo, you memory serves you correctly - there was a very longstanding garbage strike. No signs of it the two times I was there (1987 & 2012). Naples is a grittier more working class kind of city. You won't fall in love with it but that's ok! Three amazing Caravaggio's! great churches! I know the opera is not for you but this is one of the oldest! And, the best street market for nativity scenes/figurines! The city might make you crazy but I will go back again. I don't think it lives up to it's bad rep - except for the drivers they are truly crazy.
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