Rome via Brooklyn

297 words, 2 minute read time.

I’m currently back in my village in Turkey while writing this, I wanted a buffer of a few days to really let the words find me. This was simultaneously the longest and shortest trip of my life, and my first time visiting a completely foreign country. I’m eternally grateful that I took this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and had so many unforgettable experiences!

Before I start crying, I need to talk about the Basilica of San Clemente. I’ve never seen anything like it! It absolutely baffled me that we were standing on the ground of a church from the 1st century CE. The entire place had an eerie vibe that I really enjoyed, almost like a horror movie set. I didn’t particularly enjoy the dankness, but everything else about the atmosphere was so cool.

The church on the top floor was just as amazing, I really will never get used to the opulence. It was there I saw the Madonna portrait (my friend’s favorite)!

Our final dinner was so much fun! It was so sweet being able to reminisce on everything we did this trip. I’m so infinitely happy that I took the chance to come, and make new friends along the way!

The tram ride back was an interesting experience, but I’m still glad I was able to experience all forms of public transportation that Rome has to offer. I wish I knew where we were going, though.

I hope the combination of all my blog posts gives a cohesive feeling, as I can’t really describe much in one singular post. All in all, this trip will always be special to me, and I’ll definitely be holding onto these memories forever.

For the last time,

–Nico Vila