For the past couple of weeks, the trains, buses and trams have been the most convenient modes of transportation for us. We get to our destinations quickly and easily, but not without some disdain.
I’m no stranger to public transportation. I rode the MARTA at home when I worked at the top of the perimeter, and it’s efficient when there are games and concerts downtown if I don’t want to pay to park. But the Metro in Rome is a slightly different story. I’m gonna use the word “overcrowded” because my vocabulary is on a break right now. It’s as if the entire population of the city has to cram into one train car. And no, I’m not exagerrating. I don’t necessarily mind the mass of people, but I’m a towering 5’2. That means I get a whiff right in the nostrils each time someone reaches up to hold on to the rails. To add, summers in Rome are stifling (though we’re lucky to catch the June heat, I’m sure August heat feels like death). Once the body heat is paired with the temperature, the public transporation rides, though short, can feel like torture.
Moreover, journalists shake a lot of hands. Yes, even when the person I’m interviewing sneezes into their hand or digs through the garbage can while I’m talking to them, I still shake it upon greeting ang departing. It’s a small gesture, but I think it means so much.
Our days are full of germs…and each evening, when get back to our hotel, I jump with glee at the sight of soap and hot water.
Ciao,
Ang.
Two words – HAND SANITIZER! Yikes!
May I suggest you keep a “purse size” sanitizer on you. Just as your pen will be by your side, the sanitizer should accompany you too.
I’ve enjoyed your blog the past few weeks. Have a safe trip home!