DAY ONE
ROME
Our tour didn't kick off until mid afternoon, so we got our first Italian espresso and took a trip to visit the Capuchin Crypt where the bones and mummified remains of over 3,000 Capuchin Monks can be seen arranged in almost artful displays (no photos allowed inside). Before heading back to our hotel to meet our group for the first time we grabbed some lunch and explored the back streets.
We were due back at the hotel by 3 for introductions. Our guide Sanel, went over what we could expect on the tour. We also learned that he was being accompanied by a fellow Rick Steves guide Paul, who was there researching for his own upcoming Best of Europe tour. We didn't know it yet but he made an amazing addition to an already epic experience. We then spent the evening on an orientation walk, stopping at the Trevi Fountain to toss our coin and make a wish, visiting the Pantheon, and ending at Piazza Navona for some authentic food and wine eating alfresco right on the piazza.