Want to Escape the Cold Weather?

If this cold spell and the murky skies that come with it are getting you down, why not whisk yourself away on a mini break. Head off to a slightly warmer climate to top up on your vitamin D and give yourself that extra little boost of energy for the beginning of the year. Taking just a weekend away could leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed, it could possibly even help get you more motivated when you go back to work.

The sunny destination we have been dreaming of is Rome, the capital city of Italy. It is a city bursting at the seams with culture and beauty. You could spend your time there relaxing or you can use your time to explore everything this wonderful city has to offer.

Places to visit in Rome

The Coliseum is the worlds largest amphitheatre, its estimated it could hold from 50,000 to 80,000 spectators. It was originally used for gladiatorial contests, executions, re-enactments of battle, animal hunts and dramas based on mythology. It was later used for purposes such as housing, religion, workshops, a quarry, a Christian shrine and a fortress.

www.roundtheworldwego.com

The Trevi Fountain is one of the worlds most famous fountains. It marks the terminal point of the aqueduct that brought ancient Rome water. The aqueduct is named Aqua Virgo because it is said that in 19BC a young girl lead thirsty roman soldiers to the source of pure water. 

It has become a tradition to throw a coin in the fountain for good luck, you should throw the coin with your right hand over your left shoulder. Approximately 3000 Euros are thrown into the fountain every day, the money is used to subsidise a supermarket for Rome's needy and it is therefore illegal to steal money from the fountain. 

www.thetrevifountain.net

The Sistine is a truly amazing place to visit, if you are Roman Catholic it will have more importance to you as this is the official residence of the pope. However even those that aren't interested by the religious connotations will really appreciate the sheer magnificence of the building,  It's ceiling is perhaps one of the most recognisable features of the Sistine Chapel as it was painted by Michelangelo the Renaissance artist. 

www.archlighting.com

Outfit Inspiration

Seeing as you probably haven't experienced warmer weather in a few months we thought we give you some suggestions of what to wear if you chose to escape to Rome. When packing for Rome you should consider that you will want to stay casual and comfortable while sightseeing and most restaurants don't require formal attire, however modesty is key. The rule of thumb for most restaurants and especially any churches or religious places you may want to visit is that you shouldn't show your shoulders, knees or midriffs. 

Scarves are a very popular fashion accessory in Rome, men and women use them to keep a chill or the sun off of their neck and shoulders and they can even be used to cover your shoulders if you would like to visit the Vatican for example. So why not keep on trend wearing our Plum, Grey and Black Stripe Pattern Cotton Scarf by Knightsbridge with a charcoal grey polo shirt and some dark blue jeans. 

If the weather is particularly warm when you intend to go keep cool but covered wearing a blue linen shirt and cream linen trousers. You could even add the finishing touch to your outfit with a Black and White Polka Dot Neckerchief by Knightsbridge.