I will miss you Fiesta Terrace...

This is the hostel I have spent the last two night in. Probably one of the most awkward experiences in a hostel. Definitely the most random hostel every. I guess if you are up for an adventure, you can stay there when in Roma.

So, the other night I unlock the door of my room, number five, and immediately see a woman lying in my bed and three other women in beds also. Some of my stuff was moved to the last remaining bed. There is a small pathway to navigate the room between all five beds. My entrance brings immediate giggles as the four women wait to hear what language I introduce myself in. In a couple of minutes, they get out like 20 questions, while I get out two. I find out the are all Hungarians from Budapest and are all 20. Between their one question each, I manage to sneak in a question.

The experience with my four new friends was most enjoyable. They were fun people to talk to and my alarm clock in the morning. At the end of our long day of hiking the city we met up for wine on the terrace of the wonderful Fiesta Terrace.

I set out rather early. Found a great place, per the recommendation of my new friends, for a cappuccino and chocolate croissant for a sweet 1.40€. After getting my caffeine and sweets charge I headed to the Coliseum, The Arch of Constantine, the ruins around there, Trajan Column, Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. There was many sights also mixed in there. Despite the obnoxious tourists with their loud voices and flashing cameras, I did make an extended stop in the Pantheon and Sistine Chapel, it was hard not to. I found a spot on the wall at the Pantheon and gazed up at the magnificent dome for quite some time.

I have to admit, the use of my iPod helped me survive the tourist yesterday. I needed it to drown them out. I listed to all of Sufjan Steven's Seven Swans as I soaked up the ceiling of Michelangelo's magnificent work.

My travels in Roma have come to an end. Need to catch a train...

JOEL