Postcard #1: Roman Holiday

We arrived in Rome on Wednesday, the 14th, and just left this morning… it already feels like a dream. I’ve been to Rome before as a kid, but seeing it again through grown-up eyes (and an Aperol spritz in hand) made it feel brand new.

We stayed at the Sina Bernini Bristol, right in the heart of the city. After checking in around noon, we headed straight for the Vatican, wandered the streets, and grabbed lunch at the most chef’s kiss spot called Bottega Vittoria. We split a pizza, a plate of cacio e pepe, and (of course) Aperol spritzes. Heaven.

We picked up some rosaries and visited St. Peter’s Square to see the Pope’s balcony, then strolled through town and somehow magically stumbled upon the Trevi Fountain. It was one of those oh wait, we’re actually here moments. We shopped a bit, grabbed walking drinks, and made our way back to the hotel. That night, we met up with some family friends and had dinner at Tullio, a cozy spot tucked right behind our hotel.

On Thursday, we had hotel breakfast and then walked past the Spanish Steps on our way to Campo Centrale for the Rome Open (tennis girly behavior). We watched Paolini beat Stearns, saw Tommy Paul take down Hurkacz, and then cheered on our friend Christian Harrison during men’s doubles (my mom literally got his towel, legendary behavior).

Oh, and not to brag but… I may or may not have jumped into St. Germaine Hugo's pool at the stadium for €250 cash. Definitely sponsored by Hugo spritzes, but I would 100% do it again. Though I did feel bad for the poor Italian woman who was very concerned for me.

That evening, we had dinner near the Spanish Steps, Osteria da Giggi (I think), and ended the night with drinks at the rooftop bar back at our hotel. Views, vibes, vino. What else could a girl want?

Friday morning, we had one last breakfast, then packed our bags and headed to our next adventure: Siena.

More soon.

With love, Kelsey 💌