Visiting the Colosseum is the highlight of any trip to Rome (AlexAnton - stock.adobe.com)
Editor’s Note: Anna Crofton is a student writer from Dr. Wiedemer’s and Ms. Ireland’s class at Spangdahlem Middle School (SY 24-25).
From the moment I set foot in the busy streets of Rome, the city brought me into a world where history and modern life met. Each corner revealed architectural marvels and authentic Italian cuisine. I was in awe when I got to witness the Colosseum the very first time.
My favorite European vacation was an unforgettable trip to Rome, Italy. From the moment my family and I arrived, I was stunned by the sights, delicious food and warm sunshine. The vibrant city was exciting, and I couldn’t wait to spend over four days there.
One of the most inspiring experiences was exploring the Colosseum. This grand structure, a symbol of ancient contests, tells us what went on during that time. As we walked through, each little arch that was made of stone was carved perfectly.
Another great site we got to see was the Pantheon. Its impressive dome and architecture were shocking to me. Standing beneath this massive structure, I couldn’t help but wonder what the ancient Romans used this for.
Wandering through the ancient ruins of Rome was a daily highlight. Visiting the iconic Colosseum and the awesome Roman Forum brought history to life around us. Each ruin stood as an incredible legacy of ancient Rome.
The culinary experiences in Rome were amazing. Each meal we ordered burst with flavor, and every restaurant we ate at was like a 5-star experience. We tasted different types of pasta and pizza so we could try everything that Rome had to offer. It felt like a celebration of Italy’s food in my mouth with every bite I took.
My favorite Roman pasta dish was calcio e pepe. Cacio e pepe is a simple and delicious Roman pasta dish that means “cheese and pepper,” which are its main ingredients. This dish is typically made with spaghetti but can be made with other kinds of pasta. It involves cooking the pasta until it is firm, then mixing it with freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. The sauce is usually really creamy and rich. This dish highlights Roman cuisine.
Daily gelato and visiting the Pantheon are a must when in Rome. (papava - stock.adobe.com)
Our daily adventures in Rome were made even more delightful by the taste of gelato. Treating ourselves to this creamy ice cream once or twice a day. The delicious flavors on our taste buds, from classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like pistachio and tiramisu. Each scoop was a new adventure that my family and I got to try.
One of the traditional Roman gelato flavors that we couldn’t resist trying was stracciatella. This delightful flavor combines the creaminess of milk with thin, crunchy shards of dark chocolate. This gelato flavor was my brother’s favorite while we were in Rome.
The warm sunshine caused my gelato to melt faster than I could eat it. My shorts and tank top didn’t help the sweat I felt every day. Exploring the amazing aspects of the country’s capital made the sweat I dripped worth it.
As our trip progressed, I realized that Rome was more than just a destination; it was an immersive experience that resonated deeply within us. We created lasting memories as a family, filled with laughter, joy, and a shared appreciation for the beauty of Rome. The enchanting city had a way of bringing us closer together, forging connections that would remain even after we returned home.
Looking back, I can confidently say that Rome was the best vacation my family and I have ever taken. The blend of culture, history, and culinary delight made this trip truly unforgettable.
