The journey

So terrible that I never returned to talk about my trip. It was more amazing than I ever dared to dream it would be. I returned with an affinity for Italy that finally went right to my core. I've always felt but having never been, could never be sure how true it was. Now I know. il mio cuore è italiano! My heart is Italian!

   Me ready to fly!                

So, that September 20, 2015, I met my bestie Megan at the airport in Melbourne, and the trip was underway. We'd both farewelled our children for the duration and were feeling a little teary, but excitement soon overtook us and we checked through our bags and confirmed our seats. We ate a late lunch and wandered the airport before doing our big check in/security rigmarole and making our way to our gate. The flight left at 3pm, and we settled in for the long haul, watching movies and trying to sleep when we could. Far too many hours later we landed safely in Abu Dhabi. It was 11pm at night, and the humidity and heat were amazing. It was still over 30c. We had a few hours between flights and had (wisely) booked some time in the lounge so that we could shower and change and feel a bit more human after the long trip over. Then onward to Rome!!!

Me at Abu Dhabi

That touch down was special and a jolt of electricity shot through me. So excited. My lifelong dream was in motion! We grabbed our bags and found our driver bearing my name on a card in the arrivals area. He drove us directly to our Hotel Raphael, where we checked in, though our room was not yet ready, because we were early. We were able to leave our bags at reception for the day, so we transferred what we needed to our backpacks, and left the suitcases behind as we headed out for the day.