Exploring new places has always been my thing — from ancient ruins to irresistible local treats. My latest solo trip took me to Rome, a city where every corner whispers history… and the food sings. That said, I added something special to this trip. My suitcase has a box of custom cookies shaped like Rome’s famous stuff : Pizza, gelato, scooter, cappuccino.
Getting Lost (and found) in Rome
Rome thrives on a sweet kind of chaos. Sure, you can plan your itinerary, but the real magic happens when you let yourself get a little lost (safely, of course!). One minute you might be wandering a charming cobblestone street, the next you’ve stumbled upon the Capitoline Museums. There, standing face-to-face with a Michelangelo masterpiece.
On the hill, tourists saw me snapping a photo with one of my detailed cookies and smiled. That little cookie became a conversation starter. Everyone (from locals to fellow travelers) wanted to know more: “Where did you get those awesome cookies?”
Sharing stories with them became a highlight of my trip. When I offered a cappuccino cookie to a waiter, it sparked laughter, smiles, and some broken Italian, creating a connection that went beyond language. These unexpected moments, sparked by my cookie souvenirs, were the sweetest part of Rome.
Sweetening My Solo Trip with Bite-Sized Delights!
The iconic Spanish Steps are a must-see (just don’t sit on them. Seriously, it’s not allowed!). But even from afar, the energy is magical. For a glimpse of ancient entertainment, I wandered into the Marcellus Theater — imagine an old Roman version of movie night.
At sunset, I made my way to Trastevere — the kind of neighborhood where music spills out of cafés, the food is always good, and you somehow stay out later than planned.
Foodie Fun and Cookie Inspiration
Rome is a feast for the senses, and the food scene is no exception. My favorite discovery? Cacio e Pepe — a rich, cheesy, peppery pasta that feels like the grown-up version of mac & cheese (but 1000x better). I had mine at Tanto Pè Magnà , and honestly… it might inspire a “Cacio e Pepe” cookie someday. Never say never.
Speaking of inspiration, who knew a simple dessert could change my mind? Tiramisu was always a “maybe” on my menu, but after trying a bite (or two) at The best Tiramisu to go, I became a fully convert. This creamy, coffee-infused masterpiece was so good,. Just imagine, a tiny ladyfinger cookie dipped in coffee and coated in a delicate mascarpone frosting! My taste buds are tingling just thinking about it!
Gelato Addiction and Budget-Friendly Bubbly
No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in gelato. Sure, those brightly colored, overflowing displays are tempting, but the real gems are hidden beneath those sleek stainless steel covers. The quality speaks for itself with less sugar, more flavor, and a delightful richness that makes every bite a celebration. And speaking of celebrations, who can resist a refreshing Spritz ? A bubbly aperitif with a touch of Aperol for a 5-7 euros. It’s the perfect way to toast the day’s adventures, and way easier on the wallet than fancy cocktails back home. Maybe that means more budget for custom cookies on future trips!
The Sweetest Souvenirs
My Roman adventure was filled with stunning sights, delectable food but the most rewarding aspect of the trip were the unexpected connections sparked by my sweet souvenirs, the custom cookies. They reminded me that travel’s fun comes from connecting with people, not just seeing sights. So, next time you embark on an adventure, consider packing a piece of your passion. It could be baking, music, or even juggling (though maybe not in crowded squares!). Sharing what you love can be a powerful tool to connect with people, create lasting memories, and make your journey truly unforgettable. And who knows, maybe you’ll inspire a delicious cookie creation in the process.