Our first nite we weren't too familiar with getting around. We waited for a taxi for about 30 minutes and finally on our way to the restaurant.

The hotel lobby was incredible

the gold became gilded

and what a start a 5 course dinner of all of the greatest italian dishes, pasta, ravioli, ricotta, pepperoni, mozzarella, a delicious entree that surely kept our mouth watering.

Our tour friends, Nathanael & Carol were great partners as we celebrated Maryellen's birthday. The italian singer/guitar player and welcomed us to Rome playing Come back to Sorrento and Amore!

The champagne flowed and the festivities were underway as people kissed, hugged and welcomed the new year, roman style!

40??? nahhhh

there were at least 3 birthdays and a couple across from us was from Florida, they were celebrating their 2nd anniversary.

The wait staff enjoys the new year as they await their tips from the Americans!

An Italian tradition to welcome the new year with peace and prosperity. Even Maryellen tried a little portion for good luck!

of course once we saw some children dancing and playing with their family we couldn't help but think of...

how precious

New Year's evening, we found a cab and they wanted 75Euros! for a ride home. We found the metro and it was free!

for Maryellen's 40th