The Single Girl Travel Guide: How My Solo Trip to Rome Helped Me Let Go of My Limiting Mindset
Visiting Italy had always been a dream of mine. I remember telling my mother at a young age how badly I wanted to go, and I would often joke about being Italian in a past life. I never knew how my obsession began. I just knew I wanted to visit and be amongst the historical ruins and learn more about the culture.
For years I have been trying to plan a trip, but one thing would always lead to another, resulting in me not getting the opportunity to go. However, once I turned 30, I told myself I would no longer make excuses or let anything get in my way of accomplishing my dream trip. I began the planning process and had a detailed outline of when I would buy the tickets, how often I would practice the language and the order of which cities I would visit.
I spent 10 glorious days exploring the city and became the ultimate tourist. I lived in a constant state of gratitude and finally took my mind off all my worries and sorrows. I showered myself with love and gave myself everything I wanted. It was the most beautiful trip and it came at the perfect time.
If you have been entertaining the idea of traveling to Italy, and don't know what to add to your itinerary or what to bring along your trip, keep reading for my suggestions on how you can make your trip memorable!
Pack Comfortable Attire
I explored the city during the beginning of Spring, but it felt more like Summer. I grew up in a much warmer climate, so the 90-degree weather felt like home to me. However, there were days hotter than others, and on those days, I couldn't be more grateful for the light clothing I packed.
Pack some lightweight fabrics
Pack light-breathable fabrics that you are comfortable walking in. Heavy clothing can trap heat and make your day of sightseeing miserable. I recommend wearing cotton, linen, and other fabrics that allow you to move with ease.
Get yourself some comfortable walking shoes
When visiting a new city or country, I believe you should walk as much as possible to explore and immerse yourself in the environment. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and I would personally recommend that you choose a comfortable sandal of some sort because the extra layer of socks & tennis shoes can be a bit much during the hotter months.
I got the Caslon Aliyah Slingback Sandal from Nordstrom, and I couldn’t have been more pleased with how they held me down during my trip. They are comfortable, stylish, and perfect if you have a wide foot like me.
Make sure to pack your sunscreen
This is necessary every day, but especially during the Spring & Summer months in Italy. The Sun was intense and was out much longer than I was used to. It rose around 5:30/6 am and didn’t fully set until 9 pm. Plus, I was walking around the city for most of the day and wanted to make sure that my skin was fully protected.
Touristy Things
One of my favorite ways to travel is with Airbnb Experience! I always find fun and exciting ways to explore the city I am visiting through them. During this trip, I participated in a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, made pasta in Florence, enjoyed a wine tour in Frascati, and booked it all through the Airbnb app. Every host/tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, kind-hearted, and created a convivial experience.
St. Peter's Basilica
Colosseum Tour
Pasta Making Class in Florence
Wine Tour in Frascati
Food
Most of my money went to food, and I don’t regret it! I binged on Pasta, Wine, and Sushi! Yes, Sushi!
The first day I arrived, I took myself to a local restaurant and ordered a glass of chardonnay with carbonara pasta. I typically don't eat pork and I try to limit my dairy consumption, but you know what they say... when in Rome! I indulged in meat, dairy, and alcohol, and I don’t regret it! I had tiramisu and gelato every day and enjoyed a glass of wine every night.
One of my favorite places was Cantina e Cucina. I had to wait in line before getting seated, but the wait was worth it. They had the best lasagna I have ever had, and their rosemary focaccia was to die for! The place had a retro old-school feel, and the staff was incredibly friendly, making the experience even more memorable. If you decide to check this place out, I would advise that you get there before the dinner rush to minimize your wait time.
On days that I was all pasta out, I craved sushi, and to my surprise, there were some great sushi spots in the city. Coffee Pot, located in hip and trendy Trastevere, had a chill neo-soul-type atmosphere. The cuisine is a perfect blend of Japanese, Italian, and Mexican influences. My Zaeferan cocktail was incredible, and it had a delicious combination of smokiness, from the mezcal, and sweet citrus tang from the orange bitters and agave. Also, the salmon sashimi plate and La Paz (full circle moment - visited the La Paz Waterfall in Costa Rica) roll I ordered were delightful.
If you are interested in more food content make sure to check out our Single in the City series on TikTok where we highlight some cool bars, restaurants, and activities to do in other cities/countries!
As my time in Italy came closer to an end, I couldn’t help but be grateful for my experience in the city. Finally visiting, after desiring to go for so long, made me realize that I am capable of getting anything I want and all I need to do is put in the work and be patient for divine timing. This trip really helped me to get rid of my limiting mindset and forced me to recognize that I am truly limitless. There is nothing I can not do or achieve. Additionally, I was finally able to allow myself to go with the flow of things and let myself be surprised.
Every day was an adventure, and each interaction with other travelers is something I will always cherish. But my true take a way from this trip was that life is meant to be enjoyed, and we must start creating balance in our lives to establish and maintain our happiness.
How are you creating balance in your life? Where do you plan on traveling to in the future? I'd love to hear more in the comments section below!
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