Our Engagement Trip, part i | Rome, Italy

January 13th-16th, 2020

Hotel Raphael | The Vatican

As I plan our next trip to Italy I figured it’s finally time to share our previous <3. Mark proposed just two days before our flight, making it an engagement trip we’d never forget.

This was my 5th trip to my most favorite city in the world and Mark’s first. I hoped he would love it as much as I do, and without a doubt he absolutely fell in love. Although I studied Italian a couple semesters in college, Mark’s 2 weeks of duolingo put me to shame. His love for history made for the perfect travel companion, he became my built in tour guide.

Mark’s parents sent us off with this message -

And my lovely mom dropped us off at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (stopping by Chick-fil-a first of course).

Passports in hand, we’re off! Thankfully a non-stop flight to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

The view from our room at Hotel Raphael. First, a quick nap.

We ventured out with Rick Steve’s “Heart of Rome” self walking tour, starting just minutes from our hotel.

There’s nothing like the light in Rome, peeking between buildings and reflecting off the centuries-old cobblestone streets.

Listening and walking <3

Day two started with a delicious breakfast, a few plates later we were fueled for a full day.

A sunrise walk, always worth getting started early.

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill | What a Life Tours

Dinner at Ristorante All'Oro

We chose the 9 course tasting menu.

Squid ink pasta, my all time favorite

Day three, up before the sun (and tourist) to visit the Vatican.

We saw the Sistine Chapel first, it was an indescribable moment. Usually it is packed and loud, this time there were barely 30 people in the room. (no photos or video allowed)

7:20 AM Vatican Sistine Express and St. Peter's Basilica 2h tour | City Wonders