Ciao!

Today was not a very packed day with structured activities, but rather a travel day from Rome to Florence. While our time in Rome was indescribable, we spent a total of 12 days in the city and have now traveled to Florence for the remaining 8 days to finish off our Ancient Engineering trip.

Today, bright and early, we had breakfast available for us for the last time at Hotel TwentyOne in Rome at 6:50 a.m., which allowed some of us a much-needed refuel before the travel day began. Next, at 7:15, we loaded into vans to take us to the train station, which Claudio very kindly arranged for us. Once we arrived, we ensured everyone had their bags and all other belongings from the hotel (see Figure 1).

(Figure 1) Arrival at the Train Station

Following our arrival, we boarded the train at 8:15 a.m. Claudio arranged first-class tickets for us, and the train departed promptly. A photo of the train can be referenced in (Figure 2). Some fellow students and I engaged in a cribbage game during the 1 hour and 30 minute train ride from Rome to Florence (see Figure 3).

(Figure 2) Picture of High Speed Bullet Train

(Figure 3) Me and Fellow Travelers Playing Cribbage

We then arrived at our destination in the wonderful city of Florence, where we lined up and counted off before taking a bus to our new home for the concluding week of our trip, Hotel Grifone. We arrived at the hotel at 10:50 a.m. However, after arriving, we were unfortunately notified that our rooms would not be ready for another couple of hours, which prompted many students to go out and explore the city. Our bags were stashed in the front lobby while Claudio thoughtfully watched over them (see Figure 4).

(Figure 4) Picture of Me and Bryce with everyones luggage at the Hotel

The day concluded with official activities around 3:00 p.m., at which point everyone was checked into their rooms and ready for their fended sandwich establishment, while another group visited a nearby jazz café. At the time of submission, I believe everyone has made it safely back to the hotel and is preparing for a well-deserved night’s rest.

— Jack Dolan