we spent over 6 hours walking through the museum. i was overcome by all the intricate detail. without a doubt i took close to 500 pictures while i was there. after spending time in the museum, we made our way over to st. peter's square and the basilica. we attempted to go to the basilica before our 10am reservation but it was closed due to the pope already in the middle of mass outside. once inside the basilica, i again was in my picture glory. the pictures don't even do justice the enormous size and detail of everything. the amount of size alters is uncountable. if you're ever in rome, go to vatican city to visit. it was absolutely breathtaking. and i highly suggest paying extra money to go up to the cupola. from there you can walk up to the top of the dome and get a wonderful view of the city. 
after spending most of our day at the vatican, my mom and i hopped on the subway thanks to our roma pass, and headed to the colosseum. before our trip, this was the place i wanted to go. it definitely was a must see but after visiting the vatican, this place didn't compare. however, i am glad that i got to visit because how often can you say that you were in the same place as gladiators and caesar?! we ended our site seeing at the roman forum before heading back to the hotel to rest our feet for a little bit. the night ended with dinner at a great restaurant on a side alley. even though the power went out several times haha we enjoyed ourself and a liter of wine before our meals were ready :)xoxo,lindsay
