Last day in Rome

The final day in Rome was definitely truly one to remember that ended this whole experience in Italy splendidly. As greatly anticipated, the students finally were able to tour some of Rome's great wonders being the Colosseum and Circus Maximus. Later that day they were given the opportunity to see the mouth of truth.

Day 17 - Vatican City

After a long night of trying to break open Ryan O'Hara's lock to his suitcase, with success from the mighty muscles of Tim Clarke, we woke up at the crack of dawn and embarked on quite the religious experience. We met a guide who supposedly skipped the hour long line and we all cleared security, with no man left behind. Once inside we waltzed through the museum which looks like it was kilometers long and we saw the big paintings by Michelangelo, not the ninja turtle. We visited Saint Peter's Basilica, which was enormous. We were then molto fortunati because we were granted access to the underground neocroplis. The general public do not have access to this area. We saw the tomb of our first Pope, Saint Peter and we saw the rock upon which he built the church. Grazie Profs! - Ryan O'Hara

Day 16 - Pompeii

Today, we explored the evacuated ruins of Pompeii and witnessed a glimpse of the ancient nature of the citizens back then. It was an amazing opportunity to see the disastrous effects of Mount Vesuvius. During the tour there, we were able to have great views of the volcano as well, which was a sensation to see.

Day 14: Capri

Today we sailed by ferry to the stunning island of Capri, where the winding roads, breathtaking views and colourful streets provided plenty of excitement. Following lunch in a restaurant, we viewed the entirety of the coast of Capri, including the Grotta Azzurra or Blue Grotta, in a tour around the island. Unfortunately the tide was too high to enter the famous cave, but the tales of its beauty reflect the beauty of Capri itself.

Day 13 - Assisi

Day 12- Pisa

We embarked on the train, with a lovely sleep in, to Pisa. We arrived in Pisa and had a 20 minute hike to the tower and then another 20 minute climb to the top. Prof Cranston tried to do the traditional photo of holding up the tower of Pisa, with everyone. However Prof failed and we ended the day in defeat.

Day 11 - Firenze, San Gimignano, Siena

Today we went to the towns of San Gimignano and Siena in Tuscany. In San Gimignano, we got to experience the taste of the best gelato, and the best ice-cream in the world. The owner of the former gave us an in-depth discussion regarding the differences between ice-cream and gelato, and what made his gelato the best. In Siena, we were given a tour by our guide, Carla, who told us all about the town's 17 'contrade', or districts, which compete in the biannual 'Palio' horse race.