Today was meant to be my first day of giving tours, beginning with the Forum and Colosseum at 2pm. However, as Dara expected (though I hadn't really believed) no one showed up, for any of the tours. I managed to recruit two people for Enrica's tour in the morning, but people seem innately wary of being recruited, and the rest of the day was a wash. I went back and forth from the Forum to the Vatican twice, to help with recruiting on those tours, but still no luck. No one even showed up for the Pantheon tour, which is free! Still, there were some problems with the website over the weekend, so it is likely that no one saw it to know they could get such a great tour. Today when we finally returned to the apartment, however, there were some email inquiries, so hopefully tomorrow will bring at least a few more people. We should be up to full capacity by Wednesday (I hope!), although we will continue to do recruiting for the rest of the week.
I don't mind recruiting; it is good practice, and I get to meet tons of people. Given my experience, I can support the stereotype that Americans are really friendly, as most of them would chat with me a bit before refusing to come on the tour... I did meet some very nice Brits, as well. Now I am back in the apartment, searching for a place to live for the rest of the summer, and thinking about the far future as well. Soon I think I will take a break to sit on the tiny terrace and read my Umberto Eco book, because it is a beautiful night, and it doesn't get dark here until after 9pm.
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So you like comments, huh?
I wrote an elaborate one this morning, but then lost it when I tried to post. Tragic, but oh well.
So sorry to hear that no one showed up for your tours, but they certainly are missing out, like you said: any tourist would be lucky to hear about the Vestal Virgins' penchant for side ponytails from you. They will come.
One of the things I expressed in this morning's post that I'd like to get out of the way is that the first thing I think every time I read your blog is that I hate you. I'm insanely jealous of you right now and wish that I could be there with you! But I'm still so glad you're doing this and think it will be a fantastic experience.
Miss you!
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