Living in a Dream – Rome, Italy
Author: Cecellia Musgrove | Major: Architecture
When in Rome, do as the Romans do! This is a phrase that my classmates and I used all too often when studying abroad in Rome, Italy. While for many tourists, it may seem like an excuse to go on a crazy adventure, it was a word of encouragement for me.
My name is Gracie, and I am a fifth-year architecture student. With two minors, an honors college capstone to complete, and my typical design studio workloads, I had not been the most adventurous within my previous university years. A semester abroad in Rome feels like a coming of age for architecture students. Unfortunately, the pandemic placed several considerable bumps on my road to Rome. More than eight months after I was originally set to take off, I finally made it to Italy.
The first week was filled with exploration in the form of an orientation week. A series of riddles and a scavenger hunt were among my first quest. In the nearly 100 degree heat (Fahrenheit), and luminous Italy sunlight, I found myself running across the city. – I should add that architecture students are some of the most competitive people you will meet. My house came in third place, but in the span of an hour, we had visited nearly all of the major attractions.
Not all my time in Rome was rushed though. Some of my favorite things to do were seemingly minute compared to the more breathtaking trips such as Venice and Milan. Walking home each day was a dream. I passed by Castle San Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilica at least twice a day walking to school. Going to the grocery store was a simple pleasure too. It did not take long to adapt to a new way of life. Ultimately, my favorite part about Rome was the walks I took alone. I became very fond of walking the streets, watching the locals, watching people, and I can’t forget about the pigeons.
During my time, I learned a few important tips and rules to live by when in Rome.
- Walk like the Romans.
Pay attention to your surroundings, and traffic (of all kinds). Be careful in high-volume tourist areas. Don’t speak English too loudly, or you run the risk of standing out even more.
- Act the Part
The best, and safest way, to travel around Rome is to act the part of a Roman. Tourists, especially American tourists are easy targets for pickpockets and other scams. Dress like a Roman. Dress according to the season, and don’t wear the typical American clothing items. Italians dress on the nicer side. In the United States, we view streetwear as a comfort. However, in the Italian culture, how you dress is a sign of respect towards others. Think of it as presenting yourself to someone you are meeting for the first time. Wearing neutrals in classic styles is the best way to fit in and avoid being a target. I personally noticed a drastic difference in how I was treated when I dressed like an Italian. I was almost always ignored by those who harass tourists, and I was often mistaken as an Italian by Italians. It pays to dress the part.
- Don’t eat in the tourist hotspots.
The restaurants surrounding tourist hotspots are rarely authentic. Research restaurants to visit before you go. And if you are in Rome, try the traditional Roman dish of carbonara.
- Don’t order a cappuccino after 11am.
I am still not sure why but trust me.
- If you want the best gelato, avoid any place that has brightly colored gelato.
- Get ready for a long night, as dinner doesn’t typically begin until around 8pm.
Italians do not typically eat their evening meal until 8 or 9pm. Dinner is also a social event. Don’t feel rushed to eat quickly, because your waiter may not bring your check for a very long time. Italians don’t turn over tables like American restaurants do. If you sit down for dinner, you are probably going to be the only one at that table for the night. You’ll often find that many local restaurants and shops close from 2-4pm too.
- Learn basic Italian phrases before you arrive. The locals greatly appreciate it when you try to speak Italian and want to learn more about their culture.
- Prepare to walk!
My average distance walked was around seven miles a day, on cobblestone! My feet did hurt for a good month, but I learned to love walking. It has been harder to adjust to the need for driving again than it had been to walk everywhere.
- Venture off the beaten path.
There are so many secret places to explore in Rome. I came across some of the most wonderful places when I took the day to wander around.
- Take it all in and appreciate the history.
Every corner in Rome has layers of history. Take the time to stroll around, without the rush of a tour guide. Read plaques and look up information on your phone as you stop to get to know the details about the place.
My time in Italy was incredible. I am so thankful for the experience and the courage to take on so many new adventures. I have learned so many valuable lessons. The people I met have made a lasting impression. I hope to go back someday soon. Rome will always have a piece of my heart.