Armed with Google Maps, we easily found our first BnB, HOLD ROME<\/strong>, near the Termini Station. Let me tell you, this place was a gem! It was easy to find and had GREAT air conditioning<\/strong>, which became our sanctuary from the 38\u00b0C heat.<\/p>\n Susanna, who speaks excellent English, welcomed us with open arms. Her parents, the charming owners of this quaint BnB, were just lovely. Every morning, they greeted us with warm smiles and a very Italian breakfast. Now, if you’re like me and need more than just pastries to kickstart your day, I recommend a quick trip to the local supermercato for some extra goodies.<\/p>\n Our itinerary was packed: Colosseum, Forum Romanum, Castel Sant’Angelo, and Vatican City. We sweated our way through history, our new favorite phrase being “Just keep walking, and we’ll find gelato soon.”<\/p>\n Speaking of food, let’s talk about Cacio e Pepe<\/strong>. This simple yet divine pasta dish became a major favorite, making our home-cooked versions feel like sad, salty noodles. And the pizza? Let’s just say Swedish pizza has been ruined forever. We’ll never look at a “pizza special” the same way again.<\/p>\n After our Roman escapades, we were all set to take a train to Montesilvano. Surprise! The train was canceled. In true travel fashion, we caught a bus to Pescara and then a taxi to our final destination. Flexibility is key when your travel plans go bust.<\/p>\n Our home for the next leg of our trip was the Sea Lion Hotel. “Worn down” is a kind description. With an air conditioner that worked intermittently at best, I found myself sleeping on the balcony one night. (Pro tip: a cool breeze beats a stuffy room any day.) Despite its flaws, the hotel earned a generous 3 out of 5 stars: one for the location, one for the breakfast, and one for Susanna at the reception, who clearly deserves a raise.<\/p>\n The beach was stunning, and the Adriatic Sea was a shimmering blue oasis. I managed to get a slight tan, while my husband turned into a bronzed Adonis. Our daughter followed suit, but our strawberry-blond son had to play it safe in the shade. The beach vibes were perfect, though the Italian beer truly stole the show for me. I savored every sip.<\/p>\n The last day in Rome saw temperatures soaring to 39\u00b0C. My daughter and I wisely retreated to the air-conditioned comfort of our BnB. The men of the family, however, were on a mission: find a football jersey. After hours of searching and sweating, they admitted defeat and ordered one online. Sometimes, e-commerce is your best friend.<\/p>\n Sharing a hotel room for two weeks as a family of four? Let\u2019s just say, privacy becomes a luxury. Bring noise-canceling headphones, sleep masks, and entertainment for those moments when you just need some alone time.<\/p>\n Italy tested our patience, endurance, and love for pizza. But in the end, we came out stronger, tanner, and with a newfound appreciation for pasta.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Until next time, Italy. Arrivederci!<\/p>\n \/L<\/p>\nThe Travel Hiccups: When Plans Go Bust<\/h2>\n
The Sea Lion Hotel: A Mixed Bag<\/h2>\n
Beach Bliss and the Adriatic Sea<\/h2>\n
Surviving the Heat Wave<\/h2>\n
Handy Tips for Fellow Adventurers<\/h2>\n
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The Big Takeaway<\/h2>\n