Good bye Sorrento, helloooo Rome

Today started a bit earlier than the days before, suitcases and stomachs packed and ready to go by 8:30. Still hungry for adventure, we hopped onto the bus, watching the scenery until we reached Pompeii. We were greeted by our local guide, Marco, who led us through the beautiful city ruins speaking only in third person. Despite the tragedy of the people of Pompeii, the preservation of the culture, lifestyles, and architecture was astonishing. 

During the time between the end of our tour of Pompeii and our fulfilling lunch, some of us purchased diligently handcrafted jewelry in the cameo shop while others scavenged the streets for cheaper treasures. 

Off to lunch we went, devouring pasta, a choice of pizza, calamari, and pork, with the finale being a single scoop of ice cream. 

Now that our stomachs were refueled, we were prepared for the four hour drive ahead of us. The drive consisted of watching the movie Pompeii, relaxing, and noticing the change of scenery from being surrounded by water to seeing towering buildings and mountains decorated with little farms. 

To work off our gigantic lunch, and readying our stomachs once again for a huge meal, we hiked up a steep trail to the restaurant in Ariccia. We were too busy focusing on the stunning view of the city to notice the burning sensation in our legs. 

For dinner, we got to taste three different appetizers, three different pastas, two types of meats, followed by a berry crumble cake. We all enjoyed their well known salami, lamb, and sausage. 

Walking back to the bus, we appreciated each other's presence while taking in the beauty around us. After the short bus ride, we arrived at a bright yellow hotel, which we will call home for the next few days (also calling back to our homes thanks to the good wifi 🤗). The night ended with group reflection after the long day. We will sleep well tonight, dreaming of our adventures together for tomorrow.