New Years Eve in Rome

It feels good to be back in the eternal city of Rome. The streets are more noisy and crowded than ever, but there are several Christmas markets still around to ease it up. Even though it’s a bit chilly, the sun is out and the scenery is spectacular.

Beautiful morning on the last day of the year.

I do prefer the summertime edition of the city, with beautiful green scenery along the river and lovely outdoor tables in every narrow alley. But the December air is crisp and the temperature is a lot more bearable, so I think of it as another side of the amazing city.

Yesterday’s sunset over the Vatican.

The best parts of Rome are found away from the main sights where tourists wander like a flock of ants. The area of Trastavere has seen a lot more gentrification since my last visit, but there is still a different atmosphere than the main routes. Trastavere is sometimes called Roma Sparita, “the lost Rome”. I enjoy getting lost in the small alleys which always seems to end up at the Piazza di Santa Maria.

Lazy afternoon in Trastavere.

All in all, it’s a perfect time for having too many Cacio e pepe and perhaps a tiny glass of Prosecco.

To all my friends across the world, have a Happy New Year wherever you are!