Some old bricks and stuff

Sorry for the long delays in between writing these updates, we are just fitting so much into every day that it gets hard to get to the internet. Also, have a look further down and see some nice photos we added to the older posts... you get to see exciting things like the lizard we caught in a pot, the crazy Germans (Kathi and Anja) Venice in all it's romantic glory.

Rome is wow! From our arrival in the huge Central Station Termini, everywhere you look you see some historic building that is older than, well, real old stuff. Our first day we ventured to an amazing building called the Vittoriano, the burial place of an unknown soldier. So immense, it was the most amazing bit of construction I had seen so far... well for about another hour anyway. Next stop was the Colosseum, and we walked around it but did not enter (trying to save some euros) but we may enter today. The next day we lined up in the biggest line in the world (for the Vatican). Of course we were incredibly prepared, with out jandals, not eating more than a crossiant for breakfast, and bringing our wet weather gear. We did however bring our Pope-pants (required to enter the holy walled city). Well when the heavens opened (figure of speach!) one thousand men carrying 20 umbrellas each magically appeared out of no-where and were selling these for ridiculus prices to all unprepared people (like us).
We finally managed to haggle one of them down from €10 to €3. Not bad, we wont let rain dampen our spirits (So many puns here...). As for the Vatican, it was worth the hour wait and more. So much to see, excessiveness, lush tapestries, immaculate 50ft paintings decorating every wall, ceiling, and niche - only by the most famous of artists of course. Raphiel, Michaelangelo, and much more. Enormous Egyptian collections, gold, silver, bronze marble statues everywhere, just a ridiculous display of priceless artifacts. The Sistien Chapel was immpressive, and I did refrain from taking pictures (not everyone obeyed the rule).

The next day was a visit to San Pietro Basilica (Or big Petie Poos Pad). This is truely one of the wonders of the world. An immense holy structure that dwarfs even the 25ft statues they have placed all around. A vast church with incredibly high domes, immense open floors, and all intricately painted, sculpted and detailed by hand - a process that took more than a few lifetimes to complete. Photos cannot give this place justice, but we will try anyway. We did climb the 320 steps (I think more!) all the way to the top to look over the glorious city of Rome stretch into the distance - and point out other great landmarks. Unfortunately weather in Rome has been rainy and colder. Here is Juan and us up the top of the dome of the St Peters Basilica... a very slow journey, but worth it!

Our hostel that we are staying at is nothing flash. Cold showers, very small, staff aren't super-friendly and sharing a 10-bed mixed dorm just makes sleep seem all the more precious. Though at night time it creates an incredibly social atmosphere, and we have really thrived in meeting many great people here. Of note: "Frank the (Irish) Tank", Juan (Argentinian Doctor), Rebecca (Canadian/converted Spaniard), Natalie (Meteorologist) and many more! Many great nights to be had, and finally everyone can speak English!

Well Rome needs so many photos...

Last point: What is that on my face? Ahh yes, it is a hairy monster! Lazy I guess...