The few days in between sightseeing, better labeled as work days, were filled with productive interactions with our program committee, all great and fun people, while taking the train by the Vatican walls every day to and from the location of the meetings. The train system is great, with a choice between underground and above ground commuter trains. However, in the truly Italian fashion, the train schedule is adhered to very loosely. From the very first day I felt very comfortable in this country, despite the fact that most people don't speak English (with my knowledge of Spanish, it wasn't too difficult to figure out written signs). Walking around the city reminded me of walking around St. Petersburg, Russia---the streets had a very familiar feeling, with various ancient sights and brightly-lit storefronts. The people overall seemed very nice and friendly, the food was great, and I could get around easily.
The highlight of the week was a seminar we organized at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which is a massive structure close to the Coliseum and the Palatine Hill. Interestingly, the building used to be Mussolini's headquarters of Colonies Administration, which was definitely reflected in the military-style hallways and impenetrable wooden doors. However, the building had a magnificent rooftop with views of some major Roman sights, including the Roman baths and the Circus Maximus, where the Romans used to hold chariot races.
View of Roman street from FAO roof (with blue UN flag and Coliseum in the background)
Circus Maximus
The FAO roof was also the place where I had my first real Italian cappuccino---even though it sent my heart into an almost audible pitter patter, I thoroughly enjoyed it, had another one, and from then on have been drinking coffee on and off...wow
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