Hot. Crowded. Lots of hustlers trying to sell us bus tours. Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations, but I had trouble enjoying the sights over the cacophony of sales tactics.
We arrived at the Colosseum 10 minutes before our slotted time. As we shuffled forward with 100 other bodies, the security decided to turn us away. “Wait 10 more minutes.” Turning around to accept a few more minutes in the beating sun, Sam spots familiar faces from old Skokie IL.High school buddies! Our serendipitous run in was blessed by the Roman gods. We spent the evening touring the Colosseum and grabbing gelato and pizza with some great company.