The Jackal Abroad: Italy

So my first entry of a new breed was not of Egypt I'm afraid; so sue me!! I've been fidgeting with how best to present our travels around Italy+, so let me know what you think, if they're helpful or not, and how to improve.

Roma

The Basics

Travel: We flew in from Cairo International Airport; there was a massive delay, we don't know why, they wouldn't tell us, but at 45mins we got given drinks and at 1h 30 they gave us a new plane, so it was alright. As EU residents, customs was a breeze!

At Fiumincino, we saw notices for buses for 4 Euros. We found a bus leaving in 30 mins for €4, or one leaving right now for €6, which was still better than the train for just over €14. We slung our bags in and headed in remarkably little traffic for Termini and the short walk to our hostel. It was air conditioned and comfy!

Accommodation: Two Ducks Hostel, €15.50 pppn plus city tax.

It turned out to be an apartment-style hostel, as in run from and with rooms in separate apartments.

There was no breakfast, even though both the internet advertisement and signs on the doors suggested there would be. We found this out as the owner/on duty staff escorted us from the office at premises A to our accommodation at premises B.

The hallway lights weren't working and the shower would be lovely if the head would remain above head height.

However, the beds are comfy and the kitchen is stocked with plates, cutlery, and a working fridge and oven, so we've done some good self-catering here.

There is also no security, so as long as you don't mind carrying your cash and things on you you'll be fine. For the cost, though, might be worth checking ahead on some things (I didn't book this one, so I'm  taking no responsibility!)

The owner then left us alone for the duration of our stay. He implied that it would all right for us to check out slightly later than the suggested 11am, so we'll see how that goes tomorrow!

Local transport: There are buses, trams, taxis and metro in Rome; we have so far ony taken the later for manoeuvring around the city. €1.50 will get you as far as you want in one direction and there are many variations on the theme. You can also walk to any of the areas with a bit of commitment and sensible shoes, so it's pretty easy to get around. The metro is quick and air-conditioned, I would highly recommend it.  

General flavour: This was heavily coloured for us by where we'd just come from: Egypt, where I have had to watch my dress and we've had to watch our public behaviour, to Rome, which was having a PRIDE event that day. 

Once I'd got over the novelty of other people's bared flesh, as well as the option of baring my own, the city struck me as jovial, chilled-out and healthy. The sites here are heaving with tourists; there are groups and individuals alike wandering and wondering, cafes are cafe-ing, and the traders trade without making you feel pressured. But more on that later. 

Basically, from first impressions on down, Rome is a lovely place to spend a holiday!