So, we have arrived in rome.  I must admit to my first bit of excitement flying over Rome.  Our transfer was there, which was just lovely.  He drove us, very fast, to our hotel.  Obviously 100 km means 130.  We arrived, both thinking "yay, a hot shower and a little walk around, maybe some pizza or gelati, and then sleep", only to be told, the hotel had a water problem so we are now going to another place that they will organise.  Another 30 minutes and we are here.  I am not actually sure where here is.  I must find out the name of the hotel.  Not a good start as the hot water had almost gone.  Anyway, a quick shower and I just went down to the lobby for a while.  Sleep wasn't too bad, although I woke at middday brisbane time. 

The end of a full day.  Got the local bus into the centre of Rome and got off near The Vatican .  Walked the entire day around the city, sometimes going in circles.  Managed to eat wonderful food at many stops.  People certainly didn't lie telling me the food here is good.  Most of the time we weren't really sure what we were looking at but had a good time regardless.  The weather went south around lunchtime and we had to walk in the rain but not long enough to destroy our fun.  We met our friends from Germany at night and were told they had extra tickets for us had we been able to join them in witnessing their son being confirmed by the pope. We could have been a matter of metres from him but it just can't be done.  I am sure my catholic friends are envious
.  I laughed telling John I felt very comfortable with my "roman nose" I am not the only one.   A funny story leaving the airport and a south African lady asked me if we were going towards the luggage claim .  I said I was just following everyone else, actually I said "when in Rome".  How often can you say that and be exactly correct? Until tomorrow.