Rome: An AI Summary of our Trip

One of the main reasons for (and a highlight of) our trip was lots of time seeing my brother (David), my sister-in-law (Steph), and their two boys! They live in South Africa and because of the distance we sadly don't get to see them very often. So, along with the 6 of us O'Neills and my parents, we were a crew of 12 travelers! That presented some unique challenges on this trip. (Affordable lodging for 12 in Rome is not easy to find, and keeping 12 people accounted for on packed buses requires lots of mental energy!) BUT....we also had opportunities galore to have fun together and make memories that will last a lifetime. I am immensely thankful.

Our full 34-page family journal detailing our trip is too long for a blog post! And because shortening it the "old-school" way would take a lot of time, I asked AI to summarize it for me. I was happy enough with the condensed AI version to share it here, slap in some photos, and call it good.

An AI Summary of our Trip, Part 1: Rome. Go here for Part 2 (Madrid) or Part 3 (Shepherd's Rest)

The document is a family journal detailing a trip to Italy and Spain, including visits to various landmarks, and reflections on the trip.

Rome

The section details a family's week-long trip to Rome, highlighting their experiences, challenges, and top attractions visited.

• The family of 12 traveled to Rome, visiting major attractions including the Colosseum, Pantheon, Vatican Museums, and St. Peter's Basilica, often encountering long lines and large crowds.

  

  St. Peter's Square in Vatican City
  

  

  The Colosseum
  

• The family experienced difficulties with public transportation due to a marathon, leading to a memorable bike ride along the Appian Way and Roman Aqueducts.

  

  Bike ride through the Park of the Aqueducts
  

  

  An ancient Roman tomb, one of many lining the Appian Way
  

• A day trip to Naples and Pompeii was marked by ticketing issues at Mt. Vesuvius, but they enjoyed exploring the ancient city despite logistical challenges.

  

  High speed train to Naples
  

  

  Exploring Pompeii
  

  

  At the Forum of Pompeii; building Mt. Vesuvius with the real Mt. Vesuvius in the background.

 

• The family stayed at a Guest House run by Catholic nuns, called the Instituto Orsoline di Maria, in the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome.

The Guest House

 

• Highlights included unique experiences like seeing Pope Francis, exploring the Catacombs of San Sebastian, and enjoying local Italian food including gelato, suppli, lasagna, and pizza.

 

Pope Francis in his "Popemobile"

Inside St. Peter's Basilica

Gelato!

Inside the Pantheon

Family Dinner

Outside the Pantheon

 

• The family noted the prevalence of graffiti, small cars, and mopeds, as well as the challenges of traveling with a large group.  Observations included the politeness of locals, the integration of ancient and modern elements in Rome, and the lack of free tap water and public restrooms.

Lunch at Palatine Hill, where the Roman Emperors lived

• Each family member shared their top highlights, with common favorites being the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Palatine Hill, and the Basilica of San Clemente.

The Basilica of San Clemente

 

Vatican Art Museums

Remembering Elijah at the Colosseum

 

At Palatine Hill, where the throne of the Roman Emperors used to stand.

Gelato at Trevi Fountain