Rome via Brooklyn

468 words, 2 minutes to read

On the way to my accommodation, I saw a lot of graffiti, which I loved. I also saw the train lines and thought about what it looks like when you take the Amtrak to Philadelphia, and how similar they were.  Ultimately, I did not know Rome would have so much graffiti and people leaving their marks on buildings. I felt it has always been romanticized to look and be a certain way. I liked how the highways were structured, and I mostly took in greenery until we got closer to Rome. I would not have the confidence to attempt to drive in Rome, but I commend those who do! On the drive, I remember seeing the steep walls of the Vatican and being super excited to be able to go in further on in my time throughout the three-week study abroad. I wondered whether the people who built the Vatican walls during the 9th Century could imagine cars on the street.

In Culture Smart! It discusses the bagging fee, how they don’t use plastic bags, and the fact that no bagging and carry-out policy exists. When I went to the supermarket, I forgot the tote bag I was supposed to bring to carry out my groceries. So, I got the plastic bag and bagged all my stuff, which I was not opposed to at all.  The strongest scent of the day for me was smelling the jasmine flowers on the way to the supermarket.

I enjoyed seeing all the different sites and statues. The Trevi fountain was so packed that it felt like being suffocated but it is also a super popular monument so I understand. The Pantheon was also interesting to look at and it sparked my interest of what the inside looks like. I might buy some tickets and take a look one of these days, I also started my hunt for churches and saw the art on this church on the way to the supermarket. Each time I see a halo it reminds me of my capstone project and I can’t wait to see the art that actually referenced in the piece.

In Culture Smart! It talks about how life is much more public than in Britain and the USA, and private conversations can be easily overheard in the street. They also talk about how the noise of traffic mixed with conversation or shouted commands is something to get used to (page 57). When I heard the mingling of traffic and the sounds of conversation, it reminded me of NYC. I have also been walking in NYC and overheard private conversations while walking past. I don’t know, but since NYC is a mixture of many different cultures and people from all walks of life, I have already experienced that.