Fine art day in Rome

So after returning Monday night, I started talking to the other two guests in the house. I have fondly named them "the Greeks" because I have forgotten one of their names.  One is Greek, and the other is Polish.  We got to talking and the next thing I knew it was 1 am. Good wine and conversation seem to cause this time warp very predictably.

Tuesday is known as fine art day. I casually made my way to the Borghese Gallery to meet Trisha and her father. I had a coffee from a hole in the wall, served in a plastic drinking cup. This coffee was arguably one of the best I have ever had.  Never judge a coffee by the cup it is served to you in. 

I had a pleasant stroll at freezing temperatures through the Borghese gardens. My body naturally seemed out any sun that was shining, just to add a bit more heat. The wind chilled me to the bones. 

As I arrived at the Borghese, I silently thanked my mum for recommending to buy tickets ahead of time. The sign on the door said they were sold out until January 6th. The Borghese is beautiful. It is walking through an old house, room after room lined on every side with beautiful paintings and works of art. Sadly the gallery only allows 2 hours before they kick you out. We spent a large portion of time admiring Berninis Apollo and Daphne sculpture. It was so delicately done. Not my picture, but here it is.

My late afternoon was spent wandering in the Vatican. This brings my foot in country tally to 7 this year. Not a bad way tally if you ask me. 

It dropped below freezing and the winds picked up, so I decided to head back to the flat, picking up cooking items on the way. 

Alessandro is the other brother who own the flat, and he and I chatted with another friend of his. More of his friends came over for a celebration of a wedding. Then the Greeks arrived home and we were officially a party.  It's lovely to meet new people and learn about them. 

Airbnb is my new favorite travel accessory. It's so nice to be able to come and be around other people, or disappear into your room if you would like. Having a kitchen for making a quick dinner is also a bonus.