Rome is the eternal city, and without a doubt, one of the most beautiful cities on earth. Here you can walk and enjoy the sight of some of the most famous historical buildings in the world. But, with great treasures comes great responsibility!
I recently spoke with someone who visited Rome some 10-15 years ago. He was amazed by the big changes in town. Last time he visited Rome, he could enter and leave the churches and the famous sights as he wished. Now he had to stand in line for several minutes (and maybe much more) just to pass through the security line to enter into just any church in Rome. And of course, as he wanted to visit the St. Peter’s Church, he had to wait for even more time. He was amazed, and a bit annoyed by all the security controls. Is it really necessary?
The security in Rome
It is really unfortunate that there are so many security controls in Rome. If anyone finds this to be disturbing and annoying, it is us working and walking the streets of Rome regularly. But, there is a price you have to pay if you want to keep the city as amazing as it is today… and that is the price of the security. Unfortunately, there have been several terror attacks worldwide on popular locations and around tourist attractions. In Rome such an attack wouldn’t just be an attack on the people in the area, it would also mean the destruction of some of the most beautiful historical buildings and areas we have left in history. In other words, the security in Rome isn’t only there to protect the people, it is also there to protect the buildings the people visit.
It might be hard to understand this and cope with it, especially as you have to wait for a long time out in the sun on a warm summer day, but the fear of not having a building to visit at all is even worse.
In other words, try to keep your spirit high, and rather be grateful that you have the chance to visit such historical buildings and areas at all! Be grateful for having the money to fly to Rome, to order an airport transfer, and to live in a nice hotel. And later, go home and watch a movie about Rome in the old days, and see the buildings and areas you have visited during the daytime come alive on the screen in the evening.
Take care of your own safety
If we first write about safety and security, make sure to watch out for your belongings and your own security while in Rome. The city is packed with police, so you shouldn’t have to fear for your own health, but your wealth might suffer if someone steals your wallet or credit cards. In other words, watch out for your wallet and important documents. Keep them safe, and do not be an easy prey to anyone looking for a tourist to fool.
Another thing to watch out for is your confidential information and pictures on your laptop and mobile devices. If you connect to the Internet using open WiFi connections in the hotel or in a restaurant, it is very easy to steal data, pictures, and passwords if you do not watch out. A way to solve the problem is to not connect to the Internet using open WiFi networks, to only use your 3G/4G connection, or to use a VPN that will encrypt your online data and keep you safe, also when using a free open WiFi network. You can read more about some good VPN providers in the VPN reviews section in the IP Address Guide.
Are you ready for Rome?
Rome is waiting for you, and even though all this information might be hard to digest, you have a lot to look forward to. Do not come to Rome fearing the worst, but be prepared, and have a wonderful time in the eternal city. It is better to take care and get home safely than to mess around and suffer the consequences!
Thank you for reading, and if you have anything you would like to add, please write a comment and let me know whatever is on your heart!
