14 Jun 2023
This was a great experience made even better with the help of our Polish-Italian guide Agnes. Since we out headed the optional one-way transport, Agnes picked us up right on time from the lobby of our hotel in Piazza di Monte Citorio (downtown Rome). Agnes was very friendly and helpful, and spoke fluent English. We walked to an off-duty taxi that quickly drove us through rush hour traffic as close you could get to the Papal entry station. While she waited in line, Agnes sent us to go buy some coffee and snacks. We watched the line get longer and longer but had no fear, Agnes was in line on our behalf. She gave us our tickets when we rejoined her, and then, after giving us very clear instructions, left us when the line was about to open. We went through the security screening and picked out seats near the front and on the central aisle, since we knew these were the best seats to get close to the Pope. Sure enough, he arrived right on schedule and came within 3 meters (10 feet) of us. The crowd was electric and the experience far surpassed our previous view of the Pope from St. Peter’s Square. Afterwards, we were on our own to return, and walked to a local lunch spot and then made our way to our hotel. I mentioned the free tickets, so what did we buy? We were picked up from our hotel, driven to the Vatican on the quickest route, our guide took us right to the correct line, she already had our tickets, she waited in line while we enjoyed coffee, and then gave us expert viewing advice. We’ll worth the price!