Ostia Antica

The amphiteatre

I woke up the following day more pumped up. I was very much looking forward to Ostia Antica (http://www.ostia-antica.org/), 30 kilometers from Rome. Great! I knew I'd have the site to myself, well at least, have some moments where I can walk around and absorb everything around me. 

Ostia (mouth) Antica was Rome's seaport and they've said it might have been where the first colony of Rome once stood. The oldest find dates back to 4 BC. It was amazing to read that as early as 68 BC pirates were already active in the market of sacking what seems to be a good source of resources. Come to think of it, I couldn't imagine that during those centuries, there were already people who were cruel enough to savage other places. 

The port was set on fire, the consular fleet diminished and two senators were kidnapped. Pompey the Great then suggested to start the law Lex Gabinia which allowed him to raise an army and destroy the pirates. By the 2nd century it got filled with 50,000 inhabitants.

Although it was far away, I didn't actually find it a hassle. I walked again to my favourite transpo place to be, The Termini station. From there I took Metro B heading for Laurentina. I got off at the Piramide Station and transferred to the Ostia Lido Train. After a long travel, I got off at Ostia Antica stop. From there I found it easy to find my way because there were signs pointing to the site. It was a little bit of a walk but I found it relaxing because of the cool ocean breeze coming in. 

I paid the entrance fee and started my way through the site. That was when I realized how massive the whole town was. The stretch of debris, left over buildings.... it was great and I could imagine how the society could have had thrived in such a place. 

There was even a building there that served a pub. it was really cute as I sat down there for a while imagining Romans in their white robes and using the place to commune and share stories. There were also portions where intricate artistry on the floors existed. 

I enjoyed that day so much. Obviously I spent the whole day there allowing my feet to drag me anywhere I can go through, small arches, grassfields, around statues. It was amazing. 

I'd highly recommend visiting this place if you pass by Rome. :)

Exploring Rome

Just Walking

I recall years ago when the line from a Nike advert was picked up so quick by the public.. Just Do It! So after a 2-3 days of rest I decided to get up and fight the shaking knees. Oh yes... 

With enough energy, my eyes were more adept to my surroundings. The cobbled streets around the area looked old and a little bit rundown, but the vibe compensated it with life. Italian music sounded more familiar this time and the scent of pizza and pasta made my taste buds crave. But I was on a mission. To make up for lost time.

I found my way to Termini Station and headed for the Colosseum. Prior research told me it was best to buy the tickets at The Forum which was the next door neighbor. A strategy to avoid the long queues most especially in the summer months. You can also purchase the ticket online and get to line up at the fast lane. Or, another option was to go there a little bit late in the afternoon. I opted for the latter.

The queue was manageable but a lot of people were complaining already. Because I was still under the weather, I decided to flow with the crowd until I get my ticket. The fee was 12 Euros for adults, valid for 2 days and gives you access to the Colosseum, the Forum and Palatino. Not bad right?


The Colosseum

To be honest, before I got on the train, I was thinking to myself, "geez, another overrated place to go to where swarms of tourists would just annoy me." But, when I got out of the station and walked a few steps.... the facade before me was dumbfounding. Okay, so I was impressed.
This structure was initially constructed back in 72 AD during the Flavian Dynasty, era of Emperor Vespasian. The amazing elliptical design measures 188m by 156m with a height of 48m. Interestingly enough, it can accommodate 55,000 spectators. On the hundredth day, games were held by the next Emperor Titus, to inaugurate the building in 80AD, when it was completed. It has been said that approximately 9000 animals were slaughtered. I wasn't really sure if it was because of the games or if they were eaten. The portion of the building that now exhibits a crevice where debris must have fallen, is a living testament to the earthquake that befell the structure in 847. The marble cladding were later then used for buildings like St. Peter's Basilica and Palazzo Farnese.

I found it a little bit daunting when I entered, swarms of tourists flowed between arches, with so many efforts to have their faces in almost every photo. There were groups with guides and some who just wandered around touching the structures. At first I couldn't appreciate the grandeur. So I told myself, I'd better see this from a different angle or else I would have just wasted the money and effort to be there.

A lot of these along the streets

I later on found a more quiet spot down the hallway of arches, a little bit far away from the crowd. I soaked in the view and imagined the place centuries ago when gladiators fought their battles. Indeed, Romans were more fierce than Greek. It was then that it dawned on me how history proved such statements.

After reading through the writings they've put up, I decided to have one last look from the inside and then move on to the Forum, next door neighbor. As I got out of the Colosseum, I found a small hill to the right and walked up to get a good shot of the walls from the outside. I imagined roman robes flaring against the wind as they stood tall, mesmerized by this great structure. I took a break and bought myself bread for lunch from one of the street stalls.

The Forum & Palatino

Right beside the Colosseum stands the Palatine Hill and the Forum. Both with great significance to the Roman empire and the history of what was once a great nation.

The Roman Forum was said to be the main central area of the city, that goes without saying, this must have served as the birthplace of the ancient Roman empire. It served as the place to go to for religious activities, commerce, business, cult, prostitution and administration of justice. Weird if you look at the mix. The whole stretch of the street walks you along the Temple of Saturn, Temple of Vesta, Arch of Titus, and the church of San Luca e Martina.

The structures were  pretty amazing. Going through the different buildings just made me realize that Roman architecture looked so much grander than the Greeks. But to be honest, I still have a soft heart for Greece, so I'd say I still vote that they're much better :)

The Palatine Hall is one of the most ancient parts of the city. It is said to be the origin of the word "palace". Based on excavations, they said people started to live there around 1000 BC. The whole stretch of gardens and structures were once said to be the location of a cave according to Roman mythology. It goes with the story about 2 brothers Romolus and Remus. After an argument, Romolus killed his brother and that's how they said the name "ROME" came about.

I walked around and explored the grounds.  I passed by an excavation site with an ongoing dig. At some point I remember being fascinated by archeology but the career path wasn't at all promising so I ditched the idea. I lingered for a while and observed how they meticulously brushed the soil away, in case they came across a find. A few other tourists stayed and watched.

At some point I stopped and found a bench that overlooked the Forum. The intricately designed domes and

random artsy building

roofs were amazing to look. But despite the grandeur, for me, it just confirmed the idea that Roman society back in the days were all about building big and artsy, as if it was the living proof of their huge ego. Oops, I hope this doesn't come across as antsy.

It was around 5 pm when I finished the walk around The Forum. I got out of the area and crossed the street where I found some more archeological sites that didn't seem to matter to passersby. It was the free site and open to anyone. I guess the history wasn't that significant which was why it didn't occur to people to absorb its presence.

I stopped for a while to have an ice cream. The heat was slowing me down and the humidity was making me crazy. I chose a spot and watched people pass by, wondering what they were thinking as they looked around. I was having the dilemma in choosing between the talked about Spanish Steps or the Trevi Fountain. I ended up opting for the Trevi Fountain.

I walked through quaint alley ways that was filled with Pasta restaurants and other eateries. The lively vibe towards the evening was getting noisier as the people started to settle down at their fave restos, some maybe feeding the curious palettes.

Just right at the corner of Mcdonalds (yeah go figure, italian mcdonalds), I stopped to watch an artist work on a requested design by a lady. It was amazing how he used spray paint, cardboards and even the lid of a tin garbage can to get the shapes he wanted. The end-result was impressive but more so, the way he conceptualized it.  He only charged 10 Euros for his artwork, not  bad. I would say  he should have charged more than that. The lady walked away smiling ear to ear.

I eventually got to Trevi Fountain. It is one the most famous fountain in the world, with a Baroque design by Nicola Salvi and completed by Pietro Bracci. It was only refurbished by 1998 and in January 2013 the fashion company Fendi promised to sponsor the restoration for 20 months.

What I wasn't aware was the "coin throwing" thingie. So they say throw a coin right hand over left shoulder,
and make a wish. But nah, I didnt bother going back there just to do that. Despite the grandeur of the artistry in front of me, I wasn't happy with the crowds. Couples were just smooching away, taking so many photos in front of the fountain. It was stopping me from getting a good shot. So I didn't bother staying that long anymore. This was one of those situations when I'd say "Seen it, tick, i'm gone". I know it sounded really bad. But at that point, I was just pissed off.

I planned something different for the following day. A place far away from the busy crowd.

Hi. It's been a While.

I know. My last entry was still back when I was exploring Rome. And that was back in September. Today's November 5, 2013. And tomorrow I'll be flying out.

I owe this blog a lot of stories, from my last days in Europe to my flight and adventures in China and most of all, my homecoming and revisiting of roots, that goes without saying, reunions and catch ups with friends I haven't seen for 5 years.

Yes. It's been a While.

This nomad will be putting the next few months on hold. Travel plans has changed and decisions have been made. 

I'll still finish this blog, just the same as I'll finish an article I've promised to the Thomasian Engineer Journal. 

Life as we know it, and Life as we think we know it..... the curves that may lie ahead can sometimes lead you to a blind curve, unexpected.... boundaries? yet to be discovered. 

Yes. It's been a While.

a Sunday in Rome

I had 1 whole week in Rome. But my first few days were wasted on resting in the hostel. My first attempt to explore the city was a failure, my knees were weak and shaking and flu symptoms took me down until the onset of fever pushed me to stay in bed. I wasn't really sure what started it. All I could remember before I left London was an itchy throat and from there my temperature just went up so quick. 

I forced myself to get up and go for the 10am mass at the Vatican. That was top priority. It was just 1 metro ride from Termini Station, getting off at Ottaviano "San Pietro". I walked for a few blocks until I found the arches. There as I walked through the entrance, was the grandeur of the Vatican City. The square was packed with chairs to accommodate people who attended the Wednesday Papal Audience in summer.

Pope John Paul II Tomb

I realized I didn't have much recollection of the place. Photographs of the family's first visit during the early 80's were the only reminders of our tour. I was only 3 years old then, Dad carrying me on his shoulders. My sisters were old enough to wander around. Mom always said that Rome was my favourite place. Dad said it was only because that was the first city we visited. 

The gray clouds were already forming when I got there. The forecast was looking bad, but I was happy that I got there with no signs of rain yet. I quickly found the Swiss Guards at the Bronze doors right after security check point. One of the guards kindly handed out a yellow slip that was my entry for the Papal Audience the following Wednesday. (For more >> Papal Audience Info)

The mass was starting when I entered St. Peters Basilica. There was a guard at the end of the corridor, permitting only those who were interested to attend sunday service to enter the area close to the altar. We weren't allowed to take photos during the mass, which was good because some of the places in Europe that I've visited didn't care if people were roaming around with cameras flashing despite an on going service.

The whole service was in Latin. Of course that goes without saying that I didn't understand a word they said. There was a choir of what seemed to be highschool boys wearing red robes. The chanting was lovely to the ear, echoing around... I loved it. There was a procession of the bishops exiting as the service ended. I couldn't get a clear shot coz they were all walking so fast and the security guy was ushering me away. Each bishop wore a particular style of head gear or what they call a "mitre". On my way out, I found Pope John Paul II's tomb. I visited and stopped for a while to pay my respects.

The rain was pouring when I got out of the Basilica. To my dismay the whole square was packed with hundreds of people waiting for the Pope. Apparently, he comes out of the 2nd window of the apartment to lead the Angels prayer at noon. Whenever he is around he would do this every Sunday. It was amazing to see the devotion of the crowd. Despite the intense down pour they were still patiently waiting for the clock to hit 12.

Now at some point  I was telling myself it was crazy of me to be so cheap, not wanting to buy a raincoat

from the guy passing by... I was thinking it was a rip off to be paying 5 Euros. But seriously? Jowe? With the flu and all? I ended up buying one. Duh.

From the side of the arches I listened to the Pope pray the Angelus and say a short speech to his followers. A whole bunch of Argentinians cheered. I noticed a group of nuns from the Philippines, silently listening under the shelter of their black umbrellas.

I found my way back to the Metro, feeling weak. I was happy to have witnessed the event and was looking forward to the Wednesday Papal Audience. I got back to the hostel to a new 3-bed dorm and 2 new roomies. Yehsle from South Korea and a guy from Argentina.

I called it a night and snuggled under the warmth of the sheets. I had to make a pass on their night out. 

First Night in Roma

Before heading off to Gatwick airport, I had to pass by the China Embassy and pickup my passport. I was so relieved when I got my visa. I know I was pushing it too much. The guy before me was rejected. I didn't quite understand why though. But imagine if I was denied a visa and I already had my China flights all sorted out. geez.

It was gray and raining in London, the usual. I found my way to London bridge station and got off at East Croydon where I waited for my 1:08 pm train to Gatwick. Time flies when you're having fun, READ>>People watching while waiting. 

I was a little bit impressed with Gatwick. Everything was organized and security was strict. First time for my keychain to be taken away from me. But that was fine.

So I arrived in Roma around 6 pm and it was chaos when I got out of the airport. I guess thats typical.

Hostel Des Artes is located along Via Villafranca, just a few blocks from the Termini Station, the main station in Rome.  It was quite dark when I got out of the train station, feeling a little bit tired and woozy, I found my way easily to the place. A lot of Pizzeria places were along the sidewalks and I could hear heaps of Italians that night.

I got an upgrade from a 5-bed dorm to a 4-bed one, although, I couldnt quite use the context "upgrade" anyway. When I got in the lights were off and someone was already sleeping. I creeped in quietly and chose the bed closest to the window. The resto downstairs was buzzing with people having their late dinner. I was famished.

The place required cash only payment and I didnt have enough. So I had to walk to the closest atm machine, just to find out that it wasnt working for my mastercard. bummer. i wasnt in the mood and all i wanted was to have dinner and hit the bed. My fever was building up. A little bit grumpy, I walked back to the hostel and gave them an installment and said id pay the rest the following day. I was glad I was talking to the guy coz he was more nice than the pouty lady.

The pizzeria in the corner was my chosen place coz I didnt want to walk any further. For sure, Rome isnt cheap at all. gee weez! I went downstairs, avoiding the crowd of families and lovers seated outside. The waiter was really cheeky and asked, "table for 2?" I said "1" He said "2?" I said "1" Then he said 2 again, saying me and him. Cheeky. I smiled and said, Id like to sit down.

I ordered the cheapest on the menu which already cost me 4 Euros. Yeah I know, Im cheap, but hey, I knew I can get something more for that price had I been energized to walk further. Anyway, the 4 Euros bought me leaves. Yes, leaves. I felt like a goat. But, it went along with bread. So it was okay.

The waiter gave me a free shot of what they call Lemoncello which he said was on him. At first I thought it would just be tasing Lemony. But apparently it was a spirit. I gulped it down after my dinner. Again, at this point, I was getting annoyed with the waiters and chefs staring at me. Is it always like this in Italy if youre a solo lady traveling?

I walked to the counter and paid my bill. He then again gave me a shot of Lemoncello. This time I asked how much the shot was. He said it was on him again. Okay, now it was sounding dodgy. Then he asked if Im just traveling alone. I said yes, not wanting to chit chat any further. I said goodnight and he reached out his hand and gestured the beso. I shook his hand and of course, just like in French, with that gesture I thought he was just wanting a cheek to cheek. But NO! Gee Weez! If I could only poke his eyes with my 2 fingers I would have! GRRR. He was aiming for me lips. EEWWWW!!!

I quickly walked away and left the place. UGH!

I got back to my room and quietly sneaked under the blanket. My fever was getting worse. The bed was creaking as the dude 2 beds away rolled over. Later on I learned he was also feeling under the weather.

At 5 am, someone walked in. Another dude who just came back from partying.

The early noise of street cleaning could be heard from outside the window. I closed my eyes hoping the fever would go away so I could explore the following day.

The visa drama

I was supposed to leave Europe on the 10th of September. But as we all know, we can't always plan things perfectly. And when hiccups come your way, just accept it and deal with it. 

I ended up leaving London on the 22nd of September. 12 days later which meant the Tibet dream was over for the Asia leg. I was a little bit disappointed but I learned the art of letting go on this trip. There are things that you can't control which means don't push it too much of everything seems to be obstructed from having a worry-free adventure. 

I didn't over analyze the situation. By the time I got to the China embassy in London, I was told that online pre-booking for appointments were required and strictly imposed. They had a few consoles there with free internet. So I quickly scanned through for the next available date and time to book an appointment. To my dismay it was on the 8th of September. The window was too tight and I didn't want to push it. I had to reschedule my flight OR go somewhere else. All because of my negligence. 

Note: The Visa application office is at 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DP and make sure you've got accommodation booked.

With that, I thought, since Tibet was out of the equation, what was the point of visiting China. Because of the political issues happening for the past years regarding Tibet, I didn't want to explore China at all. So.. Vietnam was the next option then Laos. But when I researched the prices, it wasn't practical at all. The next solution was to rebook my flight, which only cost me $150NZD. Good enough. Thus the departure of 22nd of September. 

I guess it was a blessing in disguise anyway. I was given the chance to see the Pope in Rome. And for me, that was an honour because he was just a few steps away.

Catching Up with family and friends in London

Catching up with my Cuz's

I got back in London and went straight to my cousin's place, Ate Dez. It was a strange feeling, knowing I was going back to where I started on my Europe trip. Arriving at her apartment was the confirmation that I've finished the Europe leg....though I didn't feel like I wanted to end there. 

with Ate Dez

We talked for so long, updating each other with what happened to her stories and as mine. I already gave her a gist of the adventures I've had (more of dramas)... it was good to see a familiar face and knowing that person wouldn't judge you at all. It was my first time to meet her flatmates. Ate Weng and Kuya Ray were also filipinos. I quickly warmed up to the them, as they to me, and we all ended up chatting.

As always, Ate Dez and I would usually camp out in the living room and talk until the wee hours of the morning, i.e. 4 am. Then wake up the following day, eat and then talk again. That was the cycle. But as I write this now, I actually miss them too. 

One day Ate Dez and I went to the London Eye. I haven't really been up there ever despite my visiting London for over 3 times now. I've never really desired to get on it anyway. We took photos around and met up with her friend Ate Roselle. It spontaneously became a girls night out without the booze. Instead of having drinks, we ended up with some yummy ice cream until midnight. We people watched and also talked about travel, love and how to know if a man is not into you and all that jazz. I learned a lot of things from Ate Roselle, which was good, at least now I think I've expanded my knowledge on the idea that Men are really from Mars.

I made sure that we visited Kuya Cyril and family who lived in Aylesbury. Ate Dez took the day off from work and we travelled by train. It took us 2 hours to get there but the ride was filled with our unending conversations so it was all good. We got there and all we did the whole day and evening was to eat. Oh yes, that's the Filipino way. hahaha. I was so BONDAT. what does that mean? Bloating and full because of overeating. Ate Linette, Kuya Cy's wife, just gave birth to their third son who apparently would be my grandson. It was really hilarious when Ate Linette left the baby to us because she had to collect her eldest son from school. After a few seconds of her walking out the door, the baby started crying. So imagine me and Ate Dez looking lost and trying our hardest to make faces and make him smile. Man, ain't easy to be a Mom, that's for sure! 

Catching up with Alf and Darko

with Alf

Last time I saw Alf and Darko was when they accompanied me as I left Hammersmith Station. And it seemed to be like it was just yesterday when Alf and I embarked on the Morocco adventure. Oh boy! yes, that was definitely an adventure! 

I met up with Alf at the London Bridge Station. It was so good seeing her again. I felt like there was so much to catch up on. She was my lifeline on the phone whenever I felt distraught sometime in the Europe leg. So far, she knew everything and even the deepest secrets. I was so glad to be talking to in person that night instead of just on the phone.

We walked our way to a Thai fast food place with yummy food. We chatted for almost 3 hours and updated each other. Oh yes, there were a lot of laughs about what happened for the past months since we last saw each other. As usual, the girls giggling. 

We met up with Darko later on. It was hilarious when we couldn't find him when Alf instructed him to go to London bridge. We were both waiting at Tower Bridge instead. I was just laughing while listening to the two of them talking on the phone. Well, to add up, I was shouting "Darko!" as I approached Tower Bridge. oops. wrong bridge. 

We lingered for a while by the river and found a bench. I also updated Darko of what was happening to me. After that we took some photos and said our goodbyes as they saw me off at Bus Stop 40.

Catching up @ Eastbourne

Mum, Johnny, Cath and me

I arrived at Hampden Park Train station earlier than scheduled. I hang out for a while at the new "Station Cafe", painted light blue, which was a few stores away from the railway. I ended up chatting with the new owner who was from Pakistan. He was a young lad at the age of 25, starting up his own business and hoping that it would work out. 

I walked back to the train station and found Mum around the corner, confused with the train schedules. I hugged her. It was so good to be back. It was again a strange feeling for me to be back again. Another confirmation that my Europe Leg was over.

I stayed at Mum's place for 5 days, catching up and just chilling out. I remember she'd always smile and laugh whenever I'd say "Let's Just Chill". There were days when we would walk Sky, who seemed to be more feisty than before. It was becoming more of a challenge taking her to the park. 

On the Saturday, I asked Mum if it was possible to visit Beachy Head. It is known to be the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. It's name originated from the evolution of the French word "beau chef" meaning beautiful headland. There was a reason why I chose to explore that particular place in the Sussex Coast. Beachy Head has been known all over as the "Suicide Point", where some people would come from afar just to jump off the cliff and kiss death. I was so curious how it looked and if it was true that there was an imaginary vortex magnetizing certain people to jump. I'd say it would depend what state of mind you're in when you walk the cliffs. 

It was my first time to meet Johnny that day, Cathy's boyfriend. Sky was silent at the back as Cathy drove our way to Beachy Head. The skies were blue and it was a lovely day to go out for a walk. As soon as we arrived at the parking lot, Sky was already fidgety, excited for the walk. She had to be on a leash because it's been said that even dogs would run to their demise on that cliff. A few hiking groups were already ready for the walk though I wasn't really sure why they were all geared up. For me it looked like just a simple walk. 

Johnny pointed one of the vantage points. I followed and took a few photos. The views of the English channel were really stunning. The chalk cliffs were such a great contract to the dark blue sea. Mum wasn't really happy that Johnny and I were walking to the edges. But I've never really been afraid of heights, so I didn't give a fuss about it. As we walked further, I noticed a restricted area. Mum pointed out that it was the suicide edge of the place. I was about to go over the rope when I was told off. So we walked further until we decided it was time to have a beer. On our way back I looked at Mum asking if I could go over the ropes, then I looked at Cath for backup..until I was allowed. There were a few tombstones around, in memory of the lost souls who decided to end it all there.

I found it really cute attending Sunday service, sitting at the same pew, second one at the back set of rows. Her usual Church friends were all at the same position beside me, all ladies. Mum invited me to do the offertory with her.  I bought some cards from the Church and had morning tea after the service. 

On the afternoon of my last day Mum and I visited Dave, her eldest son. He was staying in a home just 2 bus rides away from Mum's place. I took my guitar with me coz I promised that I'd play him some songs. It was a good walk through Hampden Park to the bus stop. Mum and I did our brisk walk though she did find my stride too fast for her. Dave was in a good mood when we arrived. I met a few of the staff and we were told that he had an attack that morning. But he was looking fine and happy when we saw him. Mum introduced me and he held my hand for quite some time while staring at me. We went to his room and I found out that each of them had their own theme. He had his one decorated with army camouflage designs. His dresser had postcards glued to the doors, all them from Ate Jojo and John. Later on I played him a few songs. He listened and watched my hands strum the strings. It was so cute when Mum danced with him while I played Jason Mraz's song "I'm Yours".

Cathy ordered Chinese (from Eastbourne) for my farewell dinner. We were laughing all through out. It was just hilarious how Mum and Cathy had the typical British sarcastic sense of humor while Johnny and I would just eat away. Mum wasn't really into eating that much. After dinner, we had a box of chocolates and also the fortune cookies from the Chinese resto. We were all laughing because it seemed to coincide with our current states. 

The following morning I bid Mum goodbye and gave her a hug. I collected my guitar and other stuff that I left behind 3 months ago and hopped on the train bound for London. 

On my last week in Europe, there were 3 options. The top 1 was Ireland. Second in rank was Malta and last was Italy. It took me days to decide. And after a few suggestions from family, I made my final decision.

I chose to spend my last week in Rome, Italy.