Walking the empty streets of Rome with almost no people is a odd feeling. Considering it's the most visited city in the world you would think the summer time would be packed with people.
While Corona is a international tragedy, it did mean a possibility to really take in the history that you will see everywhere in the city. Without having to swim yourself through crowds or long queues.
I would like to show you some comparisons of Rome. But first of I would like to state I would not have traveled to Italy under any circumstances if it wasn't for family matters. While that is said, now when I was here anyways I might as well enjoy it.
One of the most popular places in Rome, Saint Peter Basilica.
Do you see any people? I think you can count them in your hands. The additional space and quietness really made it possible to take in this magnificent building. You really did feel like walking on history. Here's two pictures before the Corona times for a funny comparison how it's usually like:
I've heard the queue into Saint Peter Basilica could easily take a lot of your time out of the day. For us it was a straight walk with a little queue, only fast to check our temperature and security check. Took at max a few minutes before we stood inside.
This was the case for pretty much anywhere in Rome. But we ain't don't yet, the differences would still be endless.
The sistine chapel for example, was a online booking only and with it you once again walked straight into this huge museum.
I'm probably gonna write about sistine chapel in a post for itself. So let's move on to the final comparison.
the (empty) colosseum.
Before the outbreak:
Whats your travel experience in these odd times?
I know most of us don't travel during these times and for good reasons. I would probably not have traveled if it wasn't for family matters. But if you have against all odds braved outside of your own nations borders. How has the experience been for you?
Italy, one of the hardest hitted countries in Europe actually ended up being a good experience. Except for facemasks indoors and constant cleaning hands it came with quite some benefits of not having to share your space to see the great wonders of Rome.
Stay safe!
-holm