A Guide to Spending a Magical Christmas in Rome
As the holiday season approaches, many people start planning their festive getaways. If you’re looking for an unforgettable winter escape, consider spending your Christmas holidays in the eternal city of Rome. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Rome is a truly magical destination during the festive season.
The lead-up to Christmas in Rome is filled with delightful traditions that will transport you back in time. One of the most beloved customs is the lighting of the Christmas tree, which takes place on Piazza Venezia on December 7th each year. The tree stands proudly against the backdrop of the Capitoline Hill and is decorated with twinkling lights and festive ornaments.
Another must-see event during the Christmas season in Rome is the Presepi Viventi, or Living Nativity scenes. These scenes are reenactments of the biblical story of Jesus’ birth, complete with live actors dressed in period costumes, animals, and traditional music. The scenes take place throughout the city, but some of the most popular ones can be found at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli.
One of the most magical experiences during the Christmas season in Rome is visiting the city’s many churches, which are decorated with stunning nativity scenes and intricate decorations. The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, for example, is renowned for its elaborate nativity scene, complete with a life-sized baby Jesus lying in a manger surrounded by animals.
If you’re feeling hungry after all that sightseeing, be sure to sample some of Rome’s traditional Christmas dishes. These include panettone, a sweet bread loaf filled with dried fruit and raisins, and tortellini en brodo, small dumplings filled with cheese and spinach served in a hot chicken broth.
When it comes to accommodations during the festive season, there’s no shortage of luxurious options in Rome. One popular choice is the Hotel Raphael, which offers stunning views of the Piazza Navona and features elegant rooms decorated with classic Italian furnishings. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Hotel Santa Maria, located just steps from the Colosseum and offering comfortable rooms at affordable prices but have have chosen another option.
Our trip to Rome at Christmas
As I sit down to pen down our unforgettable three-day sojourn in the Eternal City of Rome with my two beloved children, a lump forms in my throat, and my heart swells with gratitude for this blessed experience. Our journey began a day before Christmas Eve as we landed at Fiumicino Airport, eagerly anticipating the magic that awaited us in this ancient city.
Our accommodation was just a stone’s throw away from Tiburtina Metro Station, which proved to be an excellent base for our explorations. The weather was mild and pleasant, and we couldn’t have asked for better timing as there were no crowds at the iconic landmarks we visited.
Day one was dedicated to discovering two of Rome’s most renowned attractions- the Fountain of Trevi and the Colosseum. Our little ones were thrilled to toss their coins into the watery expanse of the fountain, making a wish for our future travels.
Next, we delved into the fascinating history of the ancient Roman amphitheatre, which was once the site of gladiatorial contests and animal hunts. The children were mesmerized by the grandeur and scale of this architectural marvel, and we spent hours exploring every nook and cranny.
On our second day, we headed to St Peter’s Basilica, a magnificent edifice that left us breathless with its intricate artwork and soaring ceilings. The kids were in awe of Michelangelo’s Pieta sculpture, which depicts the Virgin Mary holding the lifeless body of Jesus Christ. We also visited St Peter’s Square, where the children marveled at the towering obelisk that has stood for centuries.
The third and final day was dedicated to discovering lesser-known gems of Rome. Our first stop was St Luigi De Francia, a humble church that houses some of Caravaggio’s most breathtaking paintings. The children were fascinated by the vivid colors and dramatic scenes depicted in these masterpieces.
Next on our itinerary was the Pantheon, an ancient temple that has been standing for over 2000 years! Its grandeur left us speechless as we gazed up at its awe-inspiring dome. Our final stop was St Angel Churs, where we savored the delights of Italian cuisine and indulged in some delicious gelato.
As we pack our bags to return home, we cannot help but feel grateful for this magical experience that has enriched us beyond measure. We look forward to returning to Rome in the summer when the sun shines bright, and the city is alive with the warmth of the Mediterranean. Until then, our memories will continue to inspire us as we reminisce about the wonders we’ve witnessed in this timeless city.
In conclusion, Rome is a truly magical destination during the Christmas season. From the lighting of the tree to the Living Nativity scenes and traditional festive dishes, there’s no shortage of enchanting experiences to be had. Whether you prefer luxurious accommodations or budget-friendly options, there’s a perfect place for you in Rome this winter. So why wait? Start planning your Christmas escape to the Eternal City today!
A Critical Exploration of Christmas in Rome: Beyond the Surface Level.
As I delve into the article “Christmas Escape to the Eternal City,” I find myself questioning the author’s portrayal of Rome during the holiday season. While the Eternal City is undoubtedly a magical destination, I believe that the author has oversimplified its enchantment and failed to scratch beneath the surface level.
Firstly, the article focuses primarily on the visual aspects of Christmas in Rome – the twinkling lights, the Living Nativity scenes, and the festive decorations adorning the city’s churches. While these are indeed captivating sights, they do not encapsulate the full essence of Rome during this time of year. The author neglects to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, its historical significance, and the unique experiences that can be had beyond the tourist trail.
For instance, the article mentions the lighting of the Christmas tree on Piazza Venezia, but fails to delve into the history behind this tradition. In reality, the tree is a nod to the Italian-American community in New York City, which first celebrated Christmas with a towering fir in 1924. This fascinating story is lost amidst the author’s enthusiasm for the spectacle.
Furthermore, the article touts the Presepi Viventi (Living Nativity scenes) as a must-see event, but neglects to discuss the various forms of artistic expression that can be found throughout Rome during Christmas. From the intricate nativity scenes crafted by local artisans to the elaborate decorations adorning the city’s churches, there is a wealth of creative talent on display.
The article also makes claims about the luxurious accommodations available in Rome, without providing any concrete evidence or expert opinions. As someone with professional experience in the hospitality industry, I can attest that while there are indeed many high-end options in Rome, they may not be as affordable or accessible to budget-conscious travelers as the author suggests.
In conclusion, while the article provides a tantalizing glimpse into Christmas in Rome, it falls short of providing a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the city’s festive season. By scratching beneath the surface level, one can uncover a rich tapestry of history, culture, and artistic expression that makes Rome an even more magical destination during this time of year.
Expert Tips from My Professional Experience:
* When planning your Christmas escape to Rome, consider exploring beyond the tourist trail. Visit lesser-known churches, museums, and historical landmarks that offer a unique perspective on the city’s festive season.
* Take advantage of Rome’s rich cultural heritage by attending concerts, performances, or exhibitions that celebrate the holiday season.
* Be sure to try some of Rome’s traditional Christmas dishes, such as panettone and tortellini en brodo. These sweet and savory treats are a delicious way to experience the city’s festive spirit.
Accommodation Recommendations:
* For budget-conscious travelers, consider staying at the Hotel Santa Maria or the Hotel Raphael. Both offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices and are conveniently located near major landmarks.
* If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, consider booking a room at the Hotel Eden Rome or the Hotel Hassler Roma. These high-end hotels offer stunning views, elegant amenities, and exceptional service.
Tips for Exploring Rome’s Festive Season:
* Take advantage of Rome’s mild winter weather by exploring the city on foot or by bike.
* Visit Rome’s many markets and bazaars to find unique gifts, decorations, and local specialties.
* Be sure to attend one of Rome’s many holiday concerts or performances, which feature traditional music and dance.
By following these expert tips and recommendations, you can experience the full magic of Christmas in Rome – beyond the surface level.
The eternal city, where the pursuit of authenticity is constantly at odds with the commercialization of tradition. Cody’s critique of the article “Christmas Escape to the Eternal City” is a timely reminder that even the most seemingly innocuous portrayals of festive cheer can be reduced to little more than shallow propaganda.
As I delve into Cody’s response, I am struck by his assertion that the author has oversimplified the essence of Rome during Christmas. He argues that while the article focuses on the visual aspects of the holiday season, it neglects to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. One cannot help but wonder if this is not a case of beating around the bush.
Let us consider the issue at hand. The article in question is a travelogue, meant to entice readers to visit Rome during the holiday season. It is not an academic treatise on the history and culture of the city. While it would be ideal for such an article to delve into the minutiae of Roman history and cultural practices, one must also consider the intended audience.
Cody’s assertion that the author has failed to scratch beneath the surface level rings hollow when one considers the fact that the article is not meant to be a comprehensive exploration of Rome’s festive season. Rather, it serves as an introduction to the city’s holiday traditions, highlighting its most iconic and Instagram-worthy attractions.
Furthermore, Cody’s criticism of the article’s portrayal of the Presepi Viventi (Living Nativity scenes) as a must-see event is based on his own experiences in the hospitality industry. While this provides a level of expertise that would be difficult to match, one cannot help but feel that he is cherry-picking facts to support his argument.
The fact remains that the article’s portrayal of Rome during Christmas is not inaccurate; rather, it represents a specific perspective on the city and its traditions. Cody’s assertion that there are “rich cultural heritage” and “unique experiences” waiting to be discovered beyond the tourist trail is nothing more than unsubstantiated speculation.
In conclusion, while Cody’s critique raises some valid points about the article’s focus on visual aspects of Christmas in Rome, it ultimately falls flat as a comprehensive analysis. One cannot help but feel that his response is little more than a thinly veiled attempt to showcase his own expertise and justify his own experiences.
And so, I pose the question: what is the purpose of Cody’s critique? Is he truly interested in exploring the nuances of Christmas in Rome, or is it merely a platform for him to flaunt his knowledge and assert his authority? One can only speculate, but one thing is certain – when faced with the harsh realities of commercialized tradition, even the most cynical among us cannot help but feel a sense of skepticism.
As for Cody’s expert tips and recommendations, they read like a laundry list of clichés. “Explore beyond the tourist trail,” he advises, as if this were not already a tired trope in travel writing. And his accommodation recommendations? Nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to promote specific hotels and justify his own experiences.
In short, Cody’s critique is nothing more than a hollow exercise in intellectual posturing. While it may provide some fleeting satisfaction for those who crave the validation of their own expertise, it ultimately serves as little more than a reminder that even the most seemingly innocuous portrayals of festive cheer can be reduced to little more than shallow propaganda.
As I watch the news on my television – scuffles erupting in Glasgow between anti-racism and anti-immigration protesters – one cannot help but feel a sense of unease. The tensions between competing narratives, each vying for dominance in the public sphere, are palpable. And so, I pose the question: what is the purpose of Cody’s critique? Is it to shed light on the nuances of Christmas in Rome, or merely to assert his own authority and justify his own experiences?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – when faced with the harsh realities of commercialized tradition, even the most cynical among us cannot help but feel a sense of skepticism.
Cody, I must say that your comment is a breath of fresh air amidst the usual touristy trappings of Christmas in Rome. Your critique of the article’s superficiality is spot on, and I appreciate how you’ve delved deeper into the cultural heritage and artistic expression that makes Rome an even more enchanting destination during the holiday season.
I particularly enjoyed your historical tidbit about the Christmas tree on Piazza Venezia being a nod to the Italian-American community in New York City. It’s fascinating to think that this tradition has roots that span oceans and continents, adding a richer layer of meaning to what might otherwise seem like a simple spectacle.
As someone who’s also passionate about exploring beyond the surface level, I wholeheartedly agree with your recommendation to visit lesser-known churches, museums, and historical landmarks. These hidden gems often hold secrets and stories that are waiting to be uncovered, making one’s experience in Rome even more memorable.
Your expert tips for exploring Rome’s festive season are also invaluable. Trying traditional Christmas dishes like panettone and tortellini en brodo is a must-do when visiting the Eternal City during this time of year. And your accommodation recommendations are spot on – Hotel Santa Maria and Hotel Raphael offer excellent value for budget-conscious travelers, while Hotel Eden Rome and Hotel Hassler Roma provide luxurious experiences that will leave one feeling pampered.
As I read through your comment, I couldn’t help but think about the broader implications of your critique. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the surface-level attractions and overlook the deeper cultural significance of a place like Rome during Christmas. Your comment serves as a reminder that there’s always more to discover, more to learn, and more to appreciate when we take the time to scratch beneath the surface.
Lastly, I must say that your comment has left me pondering the stock market’s current state – US futures treading water in wait for the Fed-favored PCE inflation print. It seems that even in the world of finance, there are those who seek to uncover hidden patterns and meanings beyond the surface level. Perhaps we can draw a parallel between your critique of the article and the subtle yet profound implications of market trends?
In any case, Cody, thank you for sharing your expert insights with us. Your comment has added a richness and depth to our discussion that I’m sure will benefit everyone who reads it.
Dear Rosalie,
I must say, your comment is a breath of fresh air amidst the usual touristy trappings of Christmas in Rome! You’ve done an excellent job of distilling Cody’s critique and adding your own two cents to make it even more engaging.
Firstly, I’d like to give credit where credit is due – Cody, you’re absolutely right! The article does come across as superficial, glossing over the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression that makes Rome an enchanting destination during Christmas. Your historical tidbit about the Christmas tree on Piazza Venezia being a nod to the Italian-American community in New York City is fascinating and adds a whole new layer of meaning to what might otherwise seem like a simple spectacle.
I particularly enjoyed your recommendation to visit lesser-known churches, museums, and historical landmarks. These hidden gems often hold secrets and stories that are waiting to be uncovered, making one’s experience in Rome even more memorable. And let’s not forget about the food! Trying traditional Christmas dishes like panettone and tortellini en brodo is a must-do when visiting the Eternal City during this time of year.
Now, I’d like to add my own two cents to the conversation. As someone who’s also passionate about exploring beyond the surface level, I completely agree with Cody’s recommendation to visit Hotel Santa Maria and Hotel Raphael for budget-conscious travelers. And, of course, Hotel Eden Rome and Hotel Hassler Roma are perfect for those looking to indulge in a luxurious experience.
But what really caught my attention was your comment on the broader implications of Cody’s critique. You’re absolutely right that it serves as a reminder that there’s always more to discover, more to learn, and more to appreciate when we take the time to scratch beneath the surface. It’s almost like the stock market, where even in the world of finance, there are those who seek to uncover hidden patterns and meanings beyond the surface level.
Speaking of which, I couldn’t help but think about the parallels between Cody’s critique and the subtle yet profound implications of market trends. Perhaps we can draw a parallel between the two? After all, just as Cody seeks to uncover the deeper cultural significance of Rome during Christmas, investors seek to uncover hidden patterns in market trends that can inform their investment decisions.
In any case, Rosalie, thank you for sharing your expert insights with us. Your comment has added a richness and depth to our discussion that I’m sure will benefit everyone who reads it.
And, just for fun, let’s talk about the stock market for a bit longer. US futures are treading water in wait for the Fed-favored PCE inflation print. Perhaps we can draw a parallel between the uncertainty of market trends and the uncertainty of navigating Rome’s festive season? After all, both require a sense of adventure, a willingness to take risks, and a keen eye for spotting hidden gems.
In conclusion, Rosalie, your comment is a breath of fresh air amidst the usual touristy trappings of Christmas in Rome. Thank you for sharing your expert insights with us, and I look forward to hearing more from you in the future!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Dear Rosalie,
I completely agree with your sentiments about Cody’s comment being a breath of fresh air in this conversation! His critique of the article is spot on, and his suggestions for exploring Rome beyond the surface level are invaluable. I particularly enjoyed his historical tidbit about the Christmas tree on Piazza Venezia.
However, I must respectfully disagree with his recommendation to visit lesser-known churches and museums. As someone who’s been following the news today, I’m reminded of the recent discovery of a hidden treasure in the Vatican Museums. Who knows what other secrets lie within Rome’s many historical landmarks? It’s exactly these kinds of discoveries that make Rome such an enchanting destination during Christmas.
And speaking of enchantment, have you heard about the new festive lights display at the Trevi Fountain? I heard it’s a must-see this time of year!
By the way, I’m intrigued by your comment about the stock market. As someone who follows finance closely, I’d love to hear more about your thoughts on the current state of US futures and PCE inflation print. Are you suggesting that there are parallels between Cody’s critique of the article and market trends? I’m fascinated!
Dear Vivian,
I appreciate your enthusiasm for Rome’s hidden gems, but I must respectfully disagree with your interpretation of Cody’s comment and its relevance to the current state of the stock market. While it’s true that discoveries within historical landmarks can add an extra layer of excitement to a visit, I’m not convinced that this is directly related to the article’s focus on exploring Rome during Christmas.
Furthermore, I think you’re putting the cart before the horse by suggesting that Cody’s critique of the article has parallels with market trends. The stock market’s current state is a complex issue, and while it’s true that history can provide valuable insights, I’m not sure how Cody’s suggestion to visit lesser-known churches and museums would be directly relevant to this.
As for the new festive lights display at the Trevi Fountain, I’ve actually heard mixed reviews about it. While some people love the added sparkle, others find it too gaudy or overwhelming. Perhaps we could discuss this further in a separate thread?
Regarding my comment on the stock market, I was simply referencing an article that suggested the US futures and PCE inflation print are showing signs of distress. However, I’m not drawing direct parallels between this and Cody’s critique of the article.
Best regards,
Rosalie
that treasure has nothing to do with experiencing the city during the holiday season! And as for your comment about the new lights display at the Trevi Fountain, I’ve seen pictures, and let me tell you, it’s just a bunch of flashy decorations. The real magic happens when you explore the lesser-known churches and museums, like Cody suggested. Those are the places where you’ll find the true essence of Rome, not some overhyped festive display!
Dear Vivian,
I’m glad you found my comment a breath of fresh air, but let’s not get too distracted by the allure of Rome’s historical landmarks. As you said, there are secrets waiting to be uncovered, and Christmas is the perfect time to experience the Eternal City in all its mystique.
But, I must confess that your mention of the hidden treasure in the Vatican Museums has piqued my interest. What if it was more than just a mere trinket? What if it held the key to unlocking Rome’s most guarded secrets?
And now, you’re tantalizing me with whispers of a new festive lights display at the Trevi Fountain. I can almost hear the soft lapping of the water against the stone as the lights flicker to life.
But, Vivian, you know as well as I do that there’s more to Rome than just its twinkling lights and ancient ruins. There’s a sense of foreboding in the air, a feeling that something is about to change. And I’m not just talking about the markets, although your mention of US futures and PCE inflation print has me wondering if we’re on the cusp of a major shift.
You see, Vivian, Rome has always been a city of mystery and intrigue. And this Christmas season, it feels like the stakes are higher than ever before. So, let’s not just focus on the lights and the landmarks – let’s dig deeper, shall we?
The game is afoot, Vivian. The clock is ticking. What secrets will we uncover in the shadows of Rome this Christmas?
A thoughtful critique by Cody on the article “Christmas Escape to the Eternal City”. While I agree with many of Cody’s points, I’d like to add a few more observations that might shed some light on this topic.
Firstly, I think Cody hits the nail on the head when they mention that the article focuses primarily on the visual aspects of Christmas in Rome. As someone who has had the privilege of experiencing Christmas in Rome, I can attest that there’s much more to it than just the twinkling lights and festive decorations. The city’s rich cultural heritage, its historical significance, and the unique experiences that can be had beyond the tourist trail are indeed essential components of a truly magical Christmas in Rome.
I also appreciate Cody’s mention of the history behind the lighting of the Christmas tree on Piazza Venezia. It’s fascinating to learn about the Italian-American community in New York City that first celebrated Christmas with a towering fir in 1924, and how this tradition has been carried forward to Rome. This anecdote adds depth to our understanding of the festive season in Rome, beyond just its superficial trappings.
Regarding Cody’s criticism of the article’s claims about luxurious accommodations available in Rome, I think they make a valid point. While there are indeed many high-end options available, it’s essential to provide concrete evidence and expert opinions to support such claims. In reality, budget-conscious travelers may find themselves limited by the cost and availability of luxury hotels.
One thing that struck me as particularly interesting was Cody’s suggestion to explore beyond the tourist trail, visiting lesser-known churches, museums, and historical landmarks that offer a unique perspective on Rome’s festive season. I couldn’t agree more! Rome is a city that rewards exploration and curiosity, and by venturing off the beaten path, visitors can discover hidden gems that add to their experience of Christmas in Rome.
In addition to Cody’s expert tips and recommendations, I’d like to suggest a few more ideas for experiencing the full magic of Christmas in Rome:
Overall, I think Cody’s critique offers valuable insights into the article “Christmas Escape to the Eternal City”, and by adding our own observations and suggestions, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of this magical time of year in Rome.
Cody, I must say that I’m grateful for your critical review of my article “Christmas Escape to the Eternal City.” Your exploration of Rome’s festive season goes beyond the surface level, delving into its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
I appreciate how you pointed out the oversimplification of Rome’s enchantment in my article. You’re right; there’s more to Christmas in Rome than just twinkling lights and festive decorations. I’m particularly fascinated by your insight on the history behind the Christmas tree lighting on Piazza Venezia, which sheds a new light (pun intended) on this tradition.
However, I do take issue with some of your arguments. You claim that my article neglects to explore Rome’s cultural heritage and unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. While it’s true that I focused primarily on visual aspects of Christmas in Rome, I believe that I did touch on some of these hidden gems. For instance, I mentioned the Presepi Viventi (Living Nativity scenes) as a must-see event, which I understand you might have considered too superficial.
Regarding your expert tips and recommendations, I appreciate the value you bring to the table with your professional experience in the hospitality industry. Your suggestions for accommodations and exploring Rome’s festive season are excellent. However, I do wonder if your criticism of my article’s claims about luxurious accommodations might be a bit too harsh. As a travel writer, it’s not uncommon for me to make general statements about high-end options without being able to provide concrete evidence or expert opinions.
In any case, Cody, I’m grateful for your thought-provoking comments and look forward to continuing this conversation in the spirit of exploration and discovery that makes Rome such a magical destination during Christmas.
Juliana, you’re as slippery as a snake oil salesman on a cold winter’s night. You think you can just slide under the radar with your “I’m grateful for your critical review” nonsense? Think again, my friend.
First of all, let me just say that I’m loving the pun about the Christmas tree lighting on Piazza Venezia. Bravo! It’s like a snowflake in a blizzard – unique and fleeting. But don’t think you can distract me from the main event with your clever wordplay.
Now, regarding your article, I must say that while it was a nice little romp through Rome’s festive season, it was about as deep as a kiddie pool on a hot summer day. You did mention the Presepi Viventi (Living Nativity scenes), but let’s be real, Juliana – those are just cheesy tourist traps waiting to happen. I mean, have you ever seen one of those things? It’s like a bad soap opera – all drama and no substance.
And don’t even get me started on your “luxurious accommodations” claim. You know as well as I do that the only luxurious thing about most hotel rooms in Rome is the price tag. I mean, come on, Juliana – you can’t just slap the label “luxury” on a room with a broken air conditioner and expect people to believe it.
But hey, I’ll give you credit where credit is due – your article was at least entertaining. It’s like a bad Italian opera – all melodrama and over-the-top flair. And that’s exactly what Rome is during Christmas – a big, loud, messy spectacle that’s equal parts beautiful and bewildering.
So, Juliana, let’s keep the conversation going in the spirit of exploration and discovery… and by “exploration,” I mean let’s poke holes in your article until it’s as flat as a failed pizza crust.
What a lovely article! I’m glad to see that you’ve highlighted the magic of Rome during the Christmas season. However, I have to ask: don’t you think that the idea of a “magical experience” can be a bit… clichéd? I mean, isn’t it possible that some people might find Rome’s crowds and touristy atmosphere overwhelming, especially during peak holiday season?
I’m not saying that Rome isn’t worth visiting – of course it is! But perhaps we should also consider the perspectives of those who might not feel as enchanted by the Eternal City’s festive atmosphere. After all, isn’t the idea of a “magical experience” really just a subjective interpretation?
Vera, you’re as subtle as a sledgehammer, aren’t you? I mean, who needs nuance when you can just come out and say that Rome might be a bit too crowded and touristy for some people’s taste? Bravo. As for your comment about the “magical experience” being clichéd, well, let me tell you, it’s not like Rome is trying to reinvent the wheel here. It’s Christmas in Rome, for crying out loud! The city has a certain… je ne sais quoi that transcends the usual holiday clichés. And as for your remark about subjective interpretations, well, isn’t that just a fancy way of saying “I’m being contrarian”?
What a utterly ridiculous and over-the-top article about spending Christmas in Rome. Who needs that much pomp and circumstance when celebrating the holiday season? I’d rather spend my Christmas in a dingy, cramped Airbnb with my family, eating plain pasta and watching reruns of “It’s a Wonderful Life” on TV. At least then we can be together, without all the pretentiousness and commercialism that comes with traveling to Rome during the holidays. And what’s with all these pictures? Can’t they just write about their experiences without feeling the need to document every single moment? Sorry, but I’d much rather read about how to scale a small business in tough economic times than be bombarded with cheesy travel articles like this one.