I just wanted to “hop” on here and share my bus tour around Rome. Longtime followers already know how much I love a good Hop on Hop off bus. I have toured this way, so far, in Hanoi, Vietnam and Tbilisi, Georgia.

When I left Bevagna, on Thursday, I took the train from Foligno to Rome. My two friends arrived the day before, after visiting Venice and Florence. The Vatican tour they booked was canceled and the company could only rebook for one person. I decided to surprise the friend unable to go.

My train arrived, while they were both in the Metro area, of the station, purchasing bus passes. I told them to wait for me to walk over and find them. They pointed out that my hotel was a five minutes walk, from where they were staying. I love it when a good plan comes together.

The following day, while my one friend toured Saint Peter’s and the Vatican Museum, I booked a Hop on Hop off tour for myself and the other friend. The pickup point was just across the street from the train station. So, I was able to also purchase my train ticket to the airport, for later that day.

Today was my final day. Italy has been hard! My last visit was in 1985. This time, I had a reaction to pollen, bees, local honey, and/or red wine! My throat closed, my lips were swollen and then turned dark purple. I guess that’s what happens when you finish the glass of red wine that was burning your lips.

Still, I was able to see my old Peace Corps Ethiopia friend, living in Casalbordino. Then my two USA friends, who joined me there, before heading to Venice and Florence. And, I had a few days, in Bevagna, with an old friend from grad school. Being able to see everyone and surprise my friends, after they arrived in Rome, was time well served.

What’s a little allergic reaction and stained lips? If this was my final trip to Italy, it was a good one! XOXO — GGT