Cinecittà

I started by taking the H bus to Termini. It was hot and crowded. I was thinking about getting off and walking, when I saw the Vittorio Emanuele monument. I jumped off just as the doors were closing.

After I got off, I realized I was by the forum and the coliseum. So I wandered and took a lot of pictures. So much so, that at one point I was worried that I'd be late for the tour.

I got there and had the usual uncomfortable silence. At one point I heard someone say, "solo Guilia." I was worried I was the only one. I said, "sono Julie," and all was good.

The tour consisted of a family from Venura, CA--Mom, 2 sisters, and one husband of a sister. Also a mom and daughter from Austria. Don't know the guide's name. There was zero instructions on how to use the bike. Just go.

We started off through traffic and e-bikes are amazing. They may it so easy! We went past the Coloseum and stopped at the Caracalla baths. Then it was off towards the Vis Appia. It took about an hour to get to the road. It was very straight and very bumpy.

We left the Via Appia and stopped at a field with horses. I warmed up to a bay mare and helped the mom/birthday girl get a picture, too. Then we rode back along the acquaduct park, which was an unexpected treat. I fell over turning a corner, which was more embarrassing than anything else.

We stopped at a farmhouse with a lot of sheep. Turns out that's where the milk for the cheese came from. We had wine and cheese in a picnic area at the farm. Then we were off.

We stopped for an espresso and bathroom before heading into town. It was much easier going back, since I was more used to the bike. However...the seat was absolutely killing me!

Once we returned I said goodbye to the Californians, and started my journey back to Trastevere...Read more