Roma

Allow me to take you on a quick tour of Roma, Italia!

What can I say about Rome? It's the perfect combination of Ancient and Modern. Just as you pass by the likes of Prada and Versace, with motorcycles flashing by,  you are then face-to-face with ruins, BC style. Don't let the hoards of tourists turn you off from this wonderful city... there are plenty of cobblestones still left unturned by these dreaded tour groups.

Don't Miss These Restaurants:
{both in the ever quaint and popular Trastevere hood)

Dar Poeta

Apparently the best pizza. I have to admit that I had a horrible cold when I consumed these circular masterpieces but the looks on my fiance's and other patron's faces was enough to assure me that I was eating slices of heaven.

Da Lucia

A very laid-back place tucked away in the Trastevere neighborhood as well. We had lovely pasta dishes, beef, and rabbit. Sorry Thumper! The highlight of the evening however, was watching the little ol' owner surveying the diners. He just walked around, busing tables, and smoking his Marlboro reds... even offered us one. A sweet feisty old man that made the evening special.

Some Dining in Italy Tips
{for the uninformed and naive}:

1. Be patient.
They take their time here. Period.
So try eating slower.

2. Drink wine out of whatever they serve it in.

You may very well not get wine glasses with stems.
It is very typical to drink wine out of water glasses here.

3. Learn Italian.

And no, you don't need shell 300 bones for Rosetta Stone. But speaking the native language in small doses is common courtesy.

Some staples:
HELLO: BUON GIORNO | BUONA SERA
THANK YOU: GRAZIE
TABLE FOR TWO, PLEASE: UN TAVOLO PER DUE, POR FAVORE.
EXCUSE ME: SCUSI
WATER: ACQUA
THE BILL: IL CONTO

4. Do NOT ask for cheese on fish dishes.

That linguine with clams? Forgetaboutit! And if you do and get a nasty look, you deserve it because I bet you'd snarl when Brits put mayo and/or vinegar on fries {which is delish}...

5. Remember that Italy is old.

The traditions and way of life in Italy are older than our great grandparents, so remember to be respectful and go with the flo. Yes, you will encounter a hiss or two if you are a tourist, but you'd get that from me on the streets of New York too, even if you are American!

And Finally:
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
And that goes for any country with tradition!

And here is a little slideshow:

Buon Martedì!
{Happy Tuesday!}