Everyone was Pretty Grouchy

We went in a lot of cathedrals, and one was the third largest in the world. Another had Michelangelo’s tomb, also Galileo’s. We saw a lot of sculptures done by Michelangelo, including the famous “David,” which I absolutely adore! We didn’t see any of Leonardo da Vinci’s work, which I found surprising, since he was supposed to have spent a lot of time in Florence.
All of this sightseeing was interesting, but we were very tired. Mark was a first-class grumpy bastard. He has the most terrible temper, and makes me so mad I could throw a fit! Everyone was pretty grouchy. But our spirits were brought up when we ate authentic Italian pizza. It is delicious, and very different from American pizza.
After dinner, we walked through the squares, and noticed that in Florence, like Rome, the people hang around outside. I was so unbearably tired.
On the way back to the hotel, a French guy stopped me. But I could barely understand anything he said, because he was talking way too fast. I said, Je regret (I’m sorry?), and walked on.
My room was so stuffy that I couldn’t sleep. On top of that, there were mosquitoes! It was also really noisy. Finally around 2:30, I conked out!
Despite all the heat, anger, fatigue, etc. in Florence, I found it to be a wonderful city. Less crowded and cleaner than Rome, and just full of art!

Nicknames for the Goons on Our European Tour, by Amy (15) & Mark (17)

Brazilian Ball Banger or B.B.B. - Looosar

Smiley - Fake smiler

Shrimp and Mama Shrimp - Stuff-butts; always look worried

The Fat Bitch - Thick

Mrs. Prejudiced (Worries) - The name says it all

Mr. & Mrs. Neil & Helen Bigot - Corrupt complainers

Mrs. Helen Bigot or Hazel - Reminds me of Shirley Booth

The War-Story Farmer Boy - Living in 1930

Smart-Ass Oda - Wine-loving sex pot

Phony Fuckers (Sluts?) - Cheap broads

Mitzi & Grubby Hubby - Straight out of Brooklyn

Ruth Buzzi or Buzz - Nice, but goofy

U-Reek-A - God, does he stink!

Pat Boone - Bullshitter jive man

Italian Men

At the Sistine Chapel, we saw the ceiling and walls that Michelangelo painted in four years’ time. It is so beautiful, and hard to believe that one person (genius) painted it! We then drove up to the highest point in Rome, and looked all over the city. Back down into Rome, we saw the famous “Moses,” again done by Michelangelo.
At 7:30, we went out to dinner (at the same place). Cathy, Lois, and Sally then came along with us to the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. The people sure hang out in these two places. We got lost a few times, but finally got on the right public bus back here.
The Italian men sure look all the girls over. No matter what you look like, they still look at you with their horny eyes. I haven’t gotten my ass pinched yet (thank God). They aren’t as bold as I thought.
Since this is our last night in Rome, I shall come to the conclusion that: “It’s a nice place to visit….” Whereas Paris, I wouldn’t mind living there.


Vatican Square, Rome

  

First Impressions of Rome, Age 15

Mark, looking out hotel-room window in Rome

There is absolutely NO water; even the toilet doesn’t flush! But that’s the way Rome is, and there’s nothing I can do. I haven’t taken a bath since early yesterday, and I slept on the train in my clothes. Plus it’s very hot – UGH!
As Ms. S. said, “Rome is absolutely mind-blowing.” It’s full of ancient ruins from Roman times – fantastic! We went into one building that was built 27 years before Christ! The coliseum was wonderful and the Vatican (largest church in the world) is indescribable!
Back at the hotel, Mark and I just fucked around - not literally! We took this big mirror and reflected it on people who were walking on the streets, to see their reactions. Immature yes, but damn funny!
In the evening, we went on an excursion up in the mountains. First, we went to this restaurant with authentic Italian music-makers. Ass-pinching and general rowdiness went on. After everyone was good and bombed, we drove down to Tivoli Gardens and saw lots of 422-year-old, natural-pressure fountains – GORGEOUS!
On the way back, we drove by the famous Roman Red-Light district. We noticed that every one sits around the squares and shit, just to pass the time and stay out of the stuffy apartments. It’s cool outside, but very warm inside; I can see why they stay outside.
Rome is more historical than Paris, but I still have my passion for Paris and its habitants. I don’t have this passion for Rome.