The Reactions to My Solo Travel Plans

Before you plan your solo trip, you might encounter some interesting reactions to your plan. This was definitely one of the most fascinating parts of sharing my travel intentions. There's a marked difference when you say, "I am planning a solo trip just on my own," versus, "I am planning a solo trip just on my own, and I'm a mother and wife."

When I shared my plans, the responses I received were quite telling:
Very close family member: "Do you have a crisis?"
Other mothers: From enthusiastic support to doubtful skepticism. 
Friends who know me well: "Great!"
Friends who don’t know me well: "With a friend? Meeting someone there? For work? Are you getting divorced? And who takes care of your daughter? Just by yourself?"
Neighbors: "Uhhhlala." (Kind of pointing to my Italian romance)
My husband knowing who he's been married to: „Alright, when? I need to organize care work.

Remember, only we know our truth!

For me, these reactions are a strong proof that people's responses are often a reflection of their own thoughts and experiences. It's essential to remember that only we know our truth, and no matter what we do, people will always have their opinions.

My response was always the same: There was an Emilia before I became a wife and mother, and she still exists, vibrant and longing for moments of solitude. Nurturing this part of myself is crucial because listening to my inner voice and connecting with my most authentic self is vitally important. It's a reminder that self-care and personal growth are not only valid but necessary.

To fully immerse myself in the experience and follow my intuition, I decided not to make any grand plans aside from visiting one or two museums. I avoided asking for too many tips and allowed myself to be guided by the flow of the city. I wanted to see where my instincts would lead me, trusting that the right places would naturally attract me. And that’s exactly how it turned out. Whenever I took a recommendation, it felt like it disrupted my flow. Trusting your gut truly leads you to the best experiences. Those where my highlights I want to share.

S A C R I P A N T E

I arrived late in Rome, exhausted and just looking to buy some water. As I walked by, something about this spot drew me in - an intriguing mix of bar and gallery that I couldn’t resist. There I was, fresh off the plane, looking far from glamorous with my plastic supermarket bag, and yet, I found myself inside, ordering a glass of red wine.

Despite the sweltering 40-degree heat, that red wine became my constant companion throughout the trip. It just felt right, like tapping into my Italian self, feeling at home in a city that wasn’t mine. I later discovered that this wasn’t just any bar—it was a concept store, showcasing local artists while serving up drinks in a space that was both minimalist and beautifully sophisticated.

When I first entered, it was almost empty. People drifted in and out, but I never felt out of place, sipping my wine alone. It became my go-to spot, where I returned nearly every day during my stay. I can’t recommend it enough - Sacripante felt like a local haunt I had always belonged to.

BAR LA LICATA

We all have that image in our heads—casually ordering an espresso at the bar, feeling like a true local. Well, I stumbled upon this spot by chance, and it was bustling with life. Inside, the noise of people chatting in Italian filled the air, and I instantly loved the vibe. The waitstaff were incredibly friendly, even recognizing me when I came back. Just like that, I had found my little espresso haven.

Funny enough, I never drink espresso back home in Hamburg—it just doesn’t taste the same as it does in Italy. And the best part? The espresso here only costs 1.20 Euro. It’s such a genuine touch, keeping prices fair because they see it as something everyone should have access to. This gem of a place is called Bar La Licata.

O L I V A

I was on the hunt for a spot to try Cacio e Pepe, the classic dish from the Lazio region made with Pecorino Romano and black pepper. The place I initially wanted to visit was closed, so I ended up at a restaurant called Oliva on a recommendation. And let me tell you, the Cacio e Pepe was SOOO good.

The restaurant itself was simple but charming, with friendly staff. I sat outside, which was lovely, though I didn’t get a chance to see much of the interior. The food here has a well-deserved reputation for being excellent. Honestly, I’d go back to Rome just for this pasta.

Panisperna Libreria 220

These little bookstores in Italy have a charm all their own. In Monti, I fell especially in love with Panisperna Libreria 220. The curation of the books was simply beautiful—you could feel the love and effort that went into selecting each one. Despite my Italian being a bit rusty, I couldn’t resist picking up a few books. There’s something about a well-curated bookstore that makes you want to dive into every page, no matter the language.

NAZIONALE D'ARTE MODERNA E CONTEMPORANEA

If you’re planning a visit, consider stopping by the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea before heading to the Galleria Borghese. The two museums complement each other perfectly. The Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea is housed in a stunning building, and taking a walk through the Borghese Gardens to get there only adds to the experience.

This museum boasts the largest collection of Italian artists, and for me, the highlight is always the Modigliani paintings—they seem to speak directly to me with their unique charm. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in both modern and contemporary Italian art before diving into the classic beauty of the Galleria Borghese.

Get a One-Week Ticket: If you’re staying for several days, consider getting a one-week ticket for public transportation. It offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the city without the hassle of buying tickets daily.

Choose Your Accommodation Wisely: Always aim for an Airbnb or boutique hotel in a central area you enjoy. I stayed in an Airbnb that was okay but overpriced. If possible, book early to secure better options. There are definitely nicer places to stay if you plan ahead.

Don’t Try to See Everything: Rome is vast and packed with attractions. Instead of trying to see everything, focus on the places and experiences that genuinely interest you. Even the little details and lesser-known spots are worth exploring and can become memorable parts of your trip.

Be Curious About What Happens When You Take Time for Yourself: It’s not always easy to spend time alone, but for me, it’s crucial to check in with myself. This trip was incredibly transformative - personal and intense. It’s my way of growing and connecting spiritually. One profound experience for me was sitting on the stairs every day, journaling until I reached an emotional breakthrough. As Hermann Hesse beautifully put it in his poem “Die Stufen,” sometimes it’s in these moments of solitude that we find our deepest transformations.

Note to myself: Rome’s beauty is undeniable, which is why it draws so many tourists, including myself. However, I’ve heard from friends that this influx has caused some issues, many locals are moving out because they no longer feel comfortable. It’s a bit of a mixed feeling. The city is bustling with people and continues to do everything it can to attract even more, making the experience both vibrant and a bit overwhelming.