8 things Simone learned from Rome

So we went to Rome, with Glamour and Danie. If you missed that, let me take you here into Italian vibes for a moment. To get us in the mood, Danie organized a get-together with the whole group at The College Hotel in Amsterdam, where the silky Parma ham smiled at us and the Aperol Spritz was ready for us. And that Danie is a champion in pampering, that became clear. Totally flabbergasted and with a swarm of butterflies in my stomach, I cycled home a few hours later. Loaded with a très instagrammable outfit from the lovely girls at Lona Mila and a perfect Chloé sunglasses à la Sophia Loren from Eye Wish Opticians. And as if that wasn't enough, a week later upon arrival in the luxury room with crisp covered beds of Egyptian cotton, a blanket of gifts was waiting for us. I mention a perfect sports set from Reebok, an old-school Eastpak backpack (because needed on the Vespa), a customized Swatch watch (put 17 women together and being on time becomes quite a challenge), a bottle of Garnier sunscreen (because a hundred degrees) and a pair of perfect ankle boots from my favorite brand Toral Shoes. And the party hadn't even started yet, right? Curious about what I learned from this trip with Glamour to Rome?

1. Flying VIP

So this was the first time I traveled and could use the VIP service at Schiphol. Unfortunately. Because now I am spoiled for the rest of my life. Because I want it. The handsome Swatch watch on my wrist was almost unnecessary. Thinking at five in the morning? Not needed. Everything is arranged and done for you, while you enjoy a perfectly brewed cup of coffee or a glass of bubbles while snoozing a bit in one of the comfortable chairs in the lounge.

2. Gardena

Your room not ready upon arrival at the hotel? Then just plop down on one of the incredibly comfortable loungers by the pool in the hotel’s very nice garden? Where your filter coffee has never tasted so good...

3. On the Vespa

You explore Rome on the Vespa with a private Italian just for yourself. Who shows you all the corners of the uhhh, Rome. Super fun, I swear.

4. Pasta

It's better that after such an Italian trip you don't just have one, but multiple 1500 kcal daily menus in between. Where a plate of pasta is a main course for us, Italians eat it as a simple snack. If you think dessert is coming, only the appetizer is behind to choose and the plates of fish, meat follow and don't forget the tiramisu. No, definitely don't forget that.

5. Gelato

The best gelatos are eaten at Galeria La Romana. The Croccante della Nonna is the best you have ever tasted. But really. Bite. Swallow. Gone.

6. Spanish Steps

A big concept in the ancient city are the Spanish Steps. If you visit the well-known steps, make sure you don't do it in high heels. Life-threatening, those things.

7. Trevi Fountain

When you throw your coin at the famous Trevi Fountain, take a dive as well. It is said that millions are fished out of the water every year.

8. Charmers

Italians are charmers. That became clear again when I wrapped my arms around him after the unexpected acute braking spectacle. He saw the embrace a bit differently, as it turned out.