Satiated.

That is the best word to describe my mindset after spending part of my summer in the Eternal City. I don’t know what it is about Rome; perhaps it’s the daily gelato or those decadent pasta dishes that left me smiling from ear to ear like the Cheshire Cat.

Or perhaps it’s the inordinate amount of time Italians will linger over coffee or wine that inspires you slow down waaaay down, making you enjoy your vacation even more. Maybe it’s only me but I have a hard time letting go of the “must see, must do” mentality and just be present in the moment. Rome definitely made me more aware of time, two millennia of it, and how much I needed to slow down and soak it in.

Here’s the three things I couldn’t live without during my Roman Holiday:

Water

Rome has over two thousand water fountains, all with fresh, clear, cold water. This is your best bet for refilling your water bottle (you brought one, right?). I was especially grateful for the water fountains after realizing that the restaurants don’t serve tap water (only bottled) and couldn’t really fill my bottle.

Pro tip, avoid the guys selling water on the sidewalk.

Yes, those bottles look sealed and frosty-delicious but they pull the empty bottles from the trash and refill them. Nobody wants to get sick on vacation, trust me.

One of Rome’s two thousand water fountains

Light, Loose Clothes

I was there end of August and it was steamy hot. I was thankful for my sandals and light dresses. Do remember a cotton scarf as some of the sites are/were religious places and require that your shoulders are covered. Pick one that folds up small in your bag.

Rooftop Pools

If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. I was raised in the desert and most comfortable in the 80 degree Fahrenheit zone so I knew it was HOT when I craved the pristine blue pool at Palazzo Naiadi. They have a package that includes pool admission with a massage. No brainer there. I love how in Rome, your drink is accompanied by snacks automatically. That’s a Roman hospitality quirk I would love to see adopted in the States.