I know, it's been a while, did you miss me? I'm sorry, that's a rhetorical question, of course you did. :)
I won't apologize for my lack of updates; I've been a busy traveller exploring the world. Before I forget, I have some wonderful news. Remember that New Year's Resolution I told you about back in the beginning of the year? Yep, I managed to accomplish it. 20 countries this year. Not too shabby eh? (proof that I'm Canadian) I think I deserve a pat on the back for that.
It's frightening to think I've been in Rome for 6 months already. As cliché as it sounds; where did all the time go?! It feels like just yesterday when I was mentally preparing myself for this exchange, my emotions filled with anxiety and trepidation. But I can say that I'm going back home a changed women (if not mentally then at least I'm a few shades darker). While going out for a gelato with my lovely room mate Mauro earlier today, he asked me what I will miss the most about Rome. I realized my love for the city when my list seemed to go on forever. Here are a few examples:
- You can get mouth watering gelato any time of the day; rain or shine. They also exist at every corner.
- Don't know where to pre-drink? Pick the closest plaza or a historical monument, like the Pantheon.
- Bored after clubbing at night? Wander around the centre and you're bound to find the Colosseum, the Forums or the Trevi Fountain.
- Free water fountain that's accessible every other block.
- Sparkling water, because they're the same price as natural water.
- Random guys hollering at me as I walk down the street, who's going to tell me I look beautiful now?!
- Eating pasta and pizza every fricken day.
- Awesome weather. Vancouver...nice try.
- Being able to cross the street whenever I feel like it. Car coming? No problem, they won't hit me: I have ninja skills.
- Free buses. I'm proud to say I've never purchased/stamped one bus ticket. Nor have I been caught. (not including the time on the train)
- CHEAP wine. My favourite sparking red wine is 1.5 euros. Beat that.
What I won't miss:
- Monstrous mosquitoes who seems to have taken a liking to me.
- Bureaucracy system: enough said.
- How everything is closed on Sunday. Oh and from 12-3pm everyday. Get's me every time.
- Waiting for the bus. If you're lucky it will come in 10 minutes. otherwise be prepared to wait up to an hour for it. Didn't know they were on strike today? Oops, sorry!
Above all else, I will miss the people here.
- My room mates Ascenzo, Mauro, Paolo, and Salvo (aka. Italian family). Thank you for sitting me down and forcing me to learn Italian (even if it only lasted a week before they gave up on me). Mi piace il aspirapolvere! Without them, I wouldn't feel so attached to Rome, like leaving home. From watching football, preparing dinner, to prank calling and drinking together, it's never been a dull moment. And hey, it only took me 4/5 months to realize where the toilet paper stash is, how to open both my shutter doors, that the bidet isn't used as a urinal site for men, and how to open a bottle of wine.
- My Erasmus friends. Just thinking about them makes me tear up, I miss each and one of them already. They are truly the most amazing group of people I've ever met. It's magical how people from different backgrounds/culture/origins can come together so seamlessly. Who cares about high school reunions? I think it's time someone organizes a LUISS Erasmus reunion.
- Everyone I travelled/stayed with. Without them I probably would not have accomplished my NY resolution so fast. Each city has enlightened me in some way; know that you were there and made that possible for me. :)
As much as I don't want to leave this sensational city, I know my time has come to say my farewells. Who knows? Maybe I'll be back for another Erasmus! Until next time...
Arrivederci Roma
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