DON'T Eat Here in Rome

 When in Rome, you might assume that all the food is good. That is not true. A lot of places make money off selling mediocre food in crowded areas. 

As a rule of thumb, 

1. Walk at least 10 minutes away from the closest tourist attraction before eating.

2. If the soda is 5 Euros or more, then the restaurant is scamming you. 

3. Look at the menu beforehand. 

Specifically, don't eat at these restaurants:

LIÒN Restaurant 

Honestly, don't eat anywhere in Italy with an American name. When a group of student suggested we go here, I didn't say anything because it was one of our first few nights in Rome, but I was suspicious. The picture below is of their "Margherita Pizza." Although, i don't really know if I can call that pizza. IT was more like cardboard with tomato sauce and a sprinkling of cheese. I don't think I need to explain the pizza anymore if you just take a loot at the picture. Another red flag at this restaurant should have been that no one else was eating there. 

Osteria da Fortunata

If you see a lady in a window rolling dough for pasta, RUN! You might think "oMG thEy makE it FRESH here!". No, they just try to make you think that it is fresh and authentic. For some reason, people do recommend it on TikTok often, but if you dive deeper into the reviews, you will not want to come here. Again, someone in the group wanted to go here early on in the trip, and no one wanted to say anything. When I looked at the menu, the pasta was about 20 Euros for a small-medium plate, which is an absurd price, especially considering the quality. We had a group of girls and a group of guys sitting at different tables. The group of girls were smarter than us, and the four of them split an order of pasta and got wine. 

Bibliothè Indian Restaurant

Two girls in my class and I wanted to try a different style of food because we were getting sick of overpriced pasta and tourist pizza. We decided an Indian restaurant would be a good idea because we could get some chicken and something different. Well, we had a hard time finding the Indian restaurant we looked up online, and Bibliothè was just around the corner. We stopped here, and after sitting down and getting water, we realized that it was a vegetarian restaurant, which was fine, but not what we were wanting. The plates of food were 23 Euros each, so we just split two plates around the three of us. We considered getting up and leaving, but we had already ordered the food. The food came and below is the serving for 23 Euros. We were disappointed, and after this we went to an American-style dessert place to make up for it. 

In conclusion, be smart about where you go to eat. You will save a lot of money and have a better experience. You will run into a few not-so-good restaurants but the majority of the ones you encounter will be good. I recommend trying something different every meal. You want to get the most out of your time and food in any country!

Transportation in India: Driving

 Driving in India

Making your way around any new city or country can be intimidating. At some point, you will find yourself in a car, whether it is a taxi, bus, or rental car. In India, this is no different. Here are a few things you would want to be familiar with if you plan on driving in India:

Lanes don't always exist

In busier areas, such as Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, you aren't going to see clear lanes that guide where you go. Especially at turns, it is a fend-for-yourself type of drive. The turns in congested areas can block up easily, and it almost looks like a puzzle that is how intermixed the cars are. Luckily, guards will help clear the traffic, but it can take 20+ minutes especially if you are in a tour bus or larger vehicle. However, traffic normally moves in a steady manner, and you don't find yourself at many dead stops besides at busy turns. 

Honking is encouraged

In America, people do not liked to be honked at, and you don't see people honking often unless they are about to be hit. However, in large Indian cities, you will hear almost constant honking, which does help push people through and guide the cars quicker. Honking is also a nice way to let people know that you are coming through. Honking is good for pedestrians because you can't always see a motorcycle, for example, when crossing if it is in a blind spot, but you will hear the honk. 

Tuk-tuk is the fastest way around

If you want to go for a quick bite, then you can call for a Tuk Tuk on the side of the street, or if you want to know the price beforehand then you can download the Uber app and order one. This applies mostly to large cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai, but I would still recommend having the app even in smaller cities. The Tuk Tuks are the small yellow and green mini cars driving around. These cars can swerve past the traffic to get around. They don't normally have doors, which makes it easy to get in and out of quickly, and although small, you can fit up to 4 people in one. Our tour guide shared the front seat with the driver while me and two other students squeezed into the back seat. 

Vehicles aren't the only way to drive around

If you find yourself in a more secluded neighborhood, then you might also find a camel or other animal that can take you where you need to be. Below is a picture of a camel driving six passengers to the Taj Mahal. You can also see a guard who helps conduct traffic. 

Overall, don't let the driving style of a city deter you from visiting. Even the most hectic roads are manageable, and they are worth the new experience! 

McDonald's but Make it in India

 When away on a trip, only two places can make you feel like you are back at home: Target and McDonald's (well, at least in my opinion). 

Since you can't find a Target outside the United States, we are focusing on MCDONALDS! I do not care if you think you are above McDonalds. If you are homesick, you have to find a McDonalds. 

Here is what you have to know about Indian Mcdonald's:

You are only getting chicken or vegetarian, no beef

This might not come as much of a surprise to you if you are in India, but it is still something to consider. You are not going to be able to get a Big Mac with beef; however, don't think that means you are leaving without a Big Mac. I introduce to you the Chicken Big Mac. Yes, you can technically still order this in the United States, but it just isn't the same. Eating at Mcdonald's in India feels like you are almost at Chick-fil-A or KFC back home. 

The soda and fries are high key better

May I present to you Mirinda. It is everything Orange Fanta wishes it was. Don't be bummed if you wanted Orange Fanta. Try the Mirinda soda and you will not regret it. Yes, they still have Pepsi and some other sodas from the US, but you have to try something different if you are eating at a Mcdonald's when in a foreign country. Don't forget about the fries! You might be thinking OMGG I need nacho cheese fries. Well, these weren't what I was expecting. These are Cheesy fries with Smoky Chipotle Sauce, and it is HOTT. You are going to need some ranch or yogurt to cool your mouth off after these fries. But how cool. We don't have cheese fries at our local McDonald's. 

Take the menu in

Here is a quick view of all McDonald's India has to offer. Will you be getting the McALOO Tikki Burger, Veg Surprise, Chicken McWings, or what?! Leave a comment about what you would order at McDonald's in India. 

Don't forget McBreakfast!

Lastly, you can not forget the breakfast when you go to any McDonald's. Surprisingly, the breakfast menu isn't super different from the US version, but there are still some interesting differences like the Dosa Masala or just the way the muffins look. 

A Day in Rome

Exploring Rome: A Complete Day Itinerary

Rome, the eternal city, where history whispers through its cobblestone streets and ancient ruins stand as silent witnesses to centuries of civilization. Stepping into Rome is like embarking on a journey through time, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. In this day itinerary, we'll unravel the essence of Rome, weaving through its iconic landmarks, indulging in its culinary delights, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that makes it truly timeless.


Morning:

8:00 AM - Breakfast at a Traditional Roman Cafe

Start your day like a true Roman with a leisurely breakfast at one of the city's charming cafes. Order a cappuccino and indulge in a cornetto, Italy's answer to the croissant. Let the aroma of freshly brewed coffee awaken your senses as you soak in the morning sunlight and plan the day ahead.

9:00 AM - Explore the Pantheon

Step into the grandeur of the Pantheon, an architectural marvel that has stood for over two millennia. Marvel at the imposing dome, a feat of ancient engineering, and feel the weight of history as you stand beneath its hallowed interior. Take a moment to admire the oculus, a portal to the heavens that bathes the interior in a celestial light.

10:30 AM - Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna

Wander through the charming streets of Rome to the iconic Spanish Steps, a symphony of Baroque architecture set against the backdrop of the bustling Piazza di Spagna. Ascend the steps to reach the Trinità dei Monti church and take in panoramic views of the city below. Pause to savor the vibrant atmosphere of the square, where artists, musicians, and travelers converge in a timeless dance.





Midday:

12:30 PM - Indulge in Roman Cuisine

No visit to Rome is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to a local trattoria and treat your taste buds to classic Roman dishes such as pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, or supplì, Rome's answer to the arancini. Pair your meal with a glass of locally sourced wine and savor the flavors of Italy's gastronomic heritage.

2:00 PM - Trevi Fountain

Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Trevi Fountain, a masterpiece of Baroque artistry that captivates visitors with its cascading waters and mythological sculptures. Join the throngs of travelers as you toss a coin into the fountain, a ritual believed to ensure a return to the eternal city. Take a moment to soak in the beauty of this iconic landmark before continuing your journey.

Afternoon:

3:30 PM - Colosseum and Roman Forum

No visit to Rome would be complete without exploring the majestic Colosseum, an enduring symbol of ancient Rome's power and grandeur. Marvel at the colossal amphitheater, where gladiators once battled for glory and emperors basked in the adulation of the masses. Step back in time as you wander through the ruins of the nearby Roman Forum, once the heart of the ancient city and a testament to its enduring legacy.

5:30 PM - Gelato Break

After a day of exploration, indulge your sweet tooth with a scoop (or two) of authentic Italian gelato. Head to one of Rome's renowned gelaterias and sample a variety of flavors, from creamy pistachio to tangy lemon. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets as you savor the rich, velvety goodness of this beloved Italian treat.



Evening:

7:00 PM - Visit a Historic Church

As the sun begins to set, make your way to one of Rome's many historic churches and bask in the tranquility of its sacred surroundings. Whether it's the awe-inspiring beauty of St. Peter's Basilica or the intimate charm of Santa Maria in Trastevere, take a moment to admire the artistry and devotion that have shaped these spiritual sanctuaries.

9:00 PM - Fun Night Activity: Nighttime Tour or Roman Bar Crawl

After dinner, keep the excitement alive with a nighttime tour of Rome's most iconic landmarks. Experience the enchanting glow of the city under the moonlight as you stroll past illuminated fountains, ancient ruins, and hidden gems tucked away in the labyrinthine streets. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Rome's vibrant nightlife with a Roman bar crawl, where you can sample local wines, craft cocktails, and traditional Italian liqueurs as you mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike.



As the night comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the day's adventures and the memories you've created in the heart of the eternal city. For in Rome, every moment is a celebration of history, culture, and the timeless spirit of la dolce vita.




(Written by AI)