Our hosts, Erin and Pat, had not seen their grandchildren in about ten months. This was the longest stretch, by far, that they had ever gone. Certainly something that they hope not to repeat again. We drove north (with our driver) as our grandkids drove south with their mom (our daughter) and dad (Erin and Pat’s son). It was a long journey for them from Paris to Rome, but they did take some time to sightsee in Switzerland and northern Italy.
Erin had booked a large apartment for all of us in the center of the historic part of town. It was just the right place, within walking distance of all the places they had scheduled to visit for the next few days. She also had booked a local guide, named Enzo, who made the trip outstanding for all of us, but especially for the older grandchildren as they were able to take in with their eyes and engage with the guide as they experienced it. I was amazed at what the kids already knew about ancient Rome from their school history classes and the supplementary reading they had done before the trip. We were among the first American tourists to be able to see the sights since the start of the pandemic. Our guide had not been able to lead a tour in almost two years. He was happy to have the opportunity and we enjoyed his passion and benefitted from his knowledge and experience.
If you are interested in seeing some photos of the sights as the family tried to see it all click here. If you are family and remember your password, and would like to see family photos from Italy, click here.