Well, after a unwelcome return to classes after Winter Break, I enjoyed a nice trip in Rome, Italy for Spring Break. My friend David is studying there for his Masters Degree, so my trip presented a much needed break for both of us.
Traveling to Europe for the first time officially (true, Istanbul is at least HALF Europe) was an amazing experience, and I have to say that Rome is definitely up there in my top cities that I've visited. Upon arrival my luck streak of amazing weather continued, and we had two crystal clear days to wander the city on foot and take in all the sights (and sites!). I can't say how nice it was to get to spend time with David, whom I have missed dearly, and this was definitely the primary reason for the trip in the first place. He was the best host I could have asked for, and worked his butt off to get me a bed for free in his residence, and catered amazingly to the "broke-ness" of my current situation. THANK YOU DAVID! That said, we spent the majority of our time walking around the city, seeing the multitude of ruins, ancient buildings, and endless "piazzas". Oh, and eating A LOT of gelato... I'm talkin' around 3 servings a day, thats 9 scoops :P
Needless to say the food was amazing, and I definitely enjoyed the different types of pizzas, cheeses, and other delicious goodness we encountered. I also realized that I can drink straight espresso! When made right that is. Since this was my first time to Europe, I was very thrown off by the "coffee bar" culture, where if one wants some caffein, he or she simply walks into essentially a table-less coffee bar, orders a shot of espresso, and gulps it down all in a matter of minutes. None of that girly fat-free soy milk, double shot latte with extra non-fat whip cream and a side of half and half stuff...
As always, some nice pictures always speak better than I :)
A little "laboritorio" we stumbled across in an alley.
Inside the Pantheon.
Friends for Life
Despite being in Rome, I couldn't seem to escape Egypt!
Rome from above. Our first day included at least 13 hours of walking the city!
Walking up for a look over the city.
The best gelato I had while in Rome. "Old Bridge Gelateria" was its name I believe ... Look at the crazed look in David's eyes! He's gelato drunk I think...
The Roman Life.
View from the back of Palatino Hill.
The trip to Rome had many effects on me, and really changed my outlook on a few particular things in my life. Being abroad in Cairo for some reason had, whether due to the reputation it has abroad, or the region it is in, made me think that "I had seen it all." This is of course false, but going to Rome made me realize that I needed to see more. Maybe this is one of the dangers of traveling abroad; it is simply addicting for some of us! Secondly, I realize that I also will be traveling more upon graduation. I feel this is a necessity for me, for a few reasons. Traveling of course is a great experience to have, but it has many affects on those of us who keep an open mind and heart while doing it. I feel it keeps our egos in check, further opens our minds, and creates a deeper understanding for those different then us. As an international affairs major, it frightens me to think that other students like me have never stepped foot out of the United States...
Anyways, I am currently finishing up my semester here in Cairo, and can't help but wonder what the future holds for me. This experience has gone by so quickly, it really seems like yesterday that I was saying goodbye to my Mom and Dad in the Austin airport....
Until next time and with love,
Eric
