Saturday, October 6, 2012

Day 35: Back to the Eternal City

Today I left Assisi and headed back to Rome for the final 3 days.

The morning started with a bit of a sleep in until 8.00am (the latest this entire trip!). I then had a quick Skype to Nook & Ella (Mr Ollie was snoozing).

I then went for a walk to get some breakfast - cappuccino with two cream croissants! I then headed back down to San Francesco to visit the lower basilica. When I arrived there was a Mass in English at his tomb, so I stayed for that.

I then walked back up the hill to look for some paintings for Nook. I was under strict instructions to bring back a piece of art from Tuscany! Problem was most of the shops weren't open, or we're opening as I had to leave for the train.

I then walked back down the hill to catch the bus to the train station. Those that have been to Assisi will appreciate my constant mention of 'walking the hill'. I had not long missed the bus which comes every 30mins. A lady spoke to me in Italian and I did my usual "me no speak Italiano". But I did want to confirm with her that I was at the right stop for the bus to the train station. I think she asked what time I leave so, I entered 11.45 in my calculator to show here and she said Si (Yes) indicating that I had enough time.

A then had a horrible thought that I should check the train time, and luckily I did as it was 11.24 - in 16 minutes time!!! Someone was looking over me today!
I quickly ran over to a taxi and had to pay €10 for the 5 minute ride to the train station. The train was late anyway, but still pleased to get there in time.

The train trip to Rome took approx 2 hours. I then caught the Metro to the Hotel I stayed at a couple of days ago, to collect my suitcase, which had been delivered there. I then got back in the Metro in the other direction to my new B&B. After a 20 minute walk with suitcase and bags, I eventually found it. Not a hotel, but room in a private apartment block.
After unpacking my suitcase, I checked all the fragile items and thankfully nothing as broken - phew.

I then went for a walk to the Vatican (5 mins away) and had a wander around the square and basilica. It was nearly closing time and they were setting up for the Papal Mass for the opening of the Synod of Bishops, so much of it was off limits. After a bit of Pizza, drink and Gelati, I headed back to the apartment.

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