Last stop on the cruise for this August 2024 on Oceania. We pulled into the port at Civitavecchia this morning. Sensing the stillness when the ship came to a full stop. The curtains drawn so darkness still filled the room. My iwatch says it’s time to wake and prepare for the day. 

The sun is up and warm air continues to be heavy hanging at the 32 plus degrees. Too hot to use the veranda much except for the spectacular views we have experienced on this voyage. 

Breakfast buffet includes fresh colourful sweet fruit, yogurt and decaf coffee and water. Lots of water to drink, stay hydrated. 

We walked into town in search of the rail station to head to Rome for a few hours. A few wrong turns and me walking slower in the heat, we arrive and purchase a ticket. Finding a cool rail car I relax. My plan to enjoy the ride and catch up on some writing. 

Sitting on train platform, grateful for air conditioning inside the rail car. Outside the window I view Terra cotta roofs and yellow plaster walls, bars on windows, dark brown trim. And people. People walking with wheeled suitcases. People moving through the heat. 

Announcement comes on, we will leave shortly. On our way to Roma Termini. First announced in Italian followed by English. Telling us of upcoming stops. 

Views of beautiful blue water nestled up to beige sandy beaches. Brown dry landscape with little green shrubs. Roadways. For 4 Euros it’s an inexpensive way to experience Italian countryside. 

Roma Termini. Arrived. Find toilet!!!!  Cost 1 euro per person. The downstairs washroom is closed. Security asks us to leave. We find info booth. Yay. Success. 

We have no map and no wifi. Venturing too far in the heat seems not wise. It’s a hot day even the locals say. We grab lunch and wander a bit, decide to head back to the ship to pack. It’s about 4 Euro for the air conditioned train. 

A nice day to check out Italian countryside, see the beaches, watch and listen to people. We depart the ship in the morning. Begin our travels home.