ryan

I left the hotel at 11am and didn't return until 7pm - what a day walking round the city, it was nonstop but am I glad it's not as big as London.

I took it easy, but managed to see all the major sites, St Pauls, Vatican, Barberini, Pantheon, Coloseum, Plazza Vienese, oh the list could go on. while I was enjoying the sites it was incredibly important to hunt done the Italian Rome gay bars. I tell you - it was hard work.

Gay bars in Rome are pretty much scattered across the city, the best area appears to be around the Coloseum - great that it is so central. Otherwise it seems you will be walking to and from.

I went to the gay book store to get the gay map, unfortunately dated 2007/8. Yes - a few of the bars don't exist anymore and these details are being added to gaypedia. However, in fact I found the gaypedia probably had more details than any book or guide I have read in the lead up to this trip...so well done gaypedia!

A couple of things about Rome:

- Back streets provide you with reasonably priced food and drink, stay off ALL main roads, unless you don't mind paying over €15 for a meal

- For some of the attractions you need to pay, some of the museums are very expensive so it is worth calculating this before you go (I cannot advise here, I am skint, so didn't pay to get in anywhere)

- I bought two travel tickets but haven't used them, I've walked everywhere, so just make sure you need a travel pass before you get one

- Souvenirs are really cheap, best deals I have found in any city so far

- August the city is pretty much Tourist invasion, all the Romans escape! There are literally no locals here!

- Escaping the sun - there is a lot of sun, so stay protected!

That's it - sure I will add more soon!