EXPLORE EUROPE ~ 5 COUNTRIES IN 11 DAYS ~ ROME & PISA, ITALY (P-3)
via Train: Zurich HBF – Milano Centrale – Roma Termini (12 hours-overnight) 19:09-07:27
For euro train ticket booking CLICK HERE
The train ride experience from Paris to Zurich TGV Lyria was great that somehow I sort of expect that my train ride from Zurich to Rome would be of the same standard. Zurich HBF to Milano Centrale was OK. On the way I was asked by the ticket inspector to show my passport, normal security procedure checking if there is anybody on board the train who are staying in Europe illegally, just my assumption. When I got in Milano Centrale I was disappointed when it turned out that the train where I would be getting on bound to Rome is not as what has been booked, which was train Italia. Worst part, when I was checking at the monitor of train schedule I could not see my train, panic started to get into my nerves. I asked around, but then how could other passengers, would be able to help me? It was midnight and I guess the station was short of staffs/people to assist night travelers like me as I could not find one who could help me. 5mins left I couldn’t find still my train, I was beginning to lose hope, thanks God someone came up and was asking Rome? Rome? (Shuhada!). That’s when I found out I would be riding different train, not Train Italia. I could not remember the number of times I have asked the guy who assisted me “Are you sure this is going to Roma Termini?” and he would respond “yes” with a smile that says like I’m acting funny. I was apprehensive and nervous at the start of the journey to Rome. Moments like that, you couldn’t do anything but only Pray. Pray for a safe journey. After I say my prayer, I fell asleep. The next thing I knew I was in Rome. I woke up with the hard knock on my cabin door. Someone is screaming Rome! Rome! All in all the experience was not really that bad , but something I will keep in my memory bank, to be cherished and remembered for as long as I can.
I arrived in Rome as scheduled. I Checked-in at Scott House. 5minutes walk from Roma Termini Train Station. Lift is small. Room is OK. Staffs were OK. Breakfast was great. Hotel is OK for what it cost.
I ate at a nearby restaurant then went back to Roma Termini to get a ticket to Pisa. Luckily I was just in time for the next train to Pisa. The journey was 4hours. Though tired, I didn’t sleep. I don’t want to miss a bit of what could be seen along the way. At the same time I was having a moment, just could not accept the thought I have lost someone important and dear to me, someone who has inspired me to dream big and pursue it. Someone who has guided me every step I take. There’s nothing I could do, but only cry and accept His will with no question but rather ask for strength and wisdom for easy acceptance why things have to happen.
While on board the train to Pisa, an inspector showed up to check tickets, came my turn and he asked for my ticket, he checked it and asked why it was not validated, I said I am a tourist and was not aware about it, as when I was in Paris and Zurich I had no problem or had I been questioned about not having my train and bus tickets validated. He was kind enough to understand and had just let it pass, he warned me though to always have my tickets validated. This I did not know if some sort of warning that I should have kept in mind. For whatever it means, this for sure was a warning which I had realized only when I was in Prague.
One thing I love about travelling is the opportunity to meet people. Some who know the ins and outs of the city are kind enough to tip me to be careful and mindful of the people around me. In the train station, there are some guys who would act like they’re helping you with your things but then, they do that with a hidden agenda, to rob you, as per the lady I met in the train to Pisa who has been in Rome for quite some time already.
I’m so thankful I experience to travel and see beautiful places like Italy. Leaning Tower of Pisa was my first stop. From the train station I took a 5-10mins bus ride to Pisa. Got at the place, look around, check the souvenir shops, took photographs and chatted with a few people who came from different parts of the world (Argentina, Korea & Thailand). Before sundown, went back to Rome.
Rome is another story. There is so much to see. I became tan after Rome, as it was summertime when I went there. As of this writing, my arms skin color is still not even.
My 2nd day, I went to visit Vatican City, the city within the city. I got the chance to go inside St. Peters Cathedral. Bought a few rosaries and had it blessed, for my family and close friends. I’m no expert when it comes to architecture and designs, but boy I couldn’t help but appreciate everything I see in Europe in that aspect.
It is a must for me to try the local food of the place I visit, hence for lunch I had pasta and gelato (for dessert).
After Vatican, I visited other must see spots of Rome. I would suggest you take the hop on-hop off big bus in exploring the city (I’m referring not only Rome but to all the cities you would plan to visit).
 |
 |
 |
| Colloseum |
Explored the City via hop-on-hop-off big bus. Note: keep your tickets for the hop-on hop-off tour buses, you might get discount when you do it in your next destination.
Comments
Post a Comment