via Governo Vecchio, a 2012 Vintage

When thinking about where I wanted to study abroad, the immediate answer was “The Netherlands.” My college has a castle there in the quaint town of Well, and each semester, about eighty students take classes there and travel through Europe. This is an incredible opportunity because literally every weekend is spent exploring country after country. Obviously, I put my name on the list and submitted my deposit immediately. But after following through with the impulse to study at The Castle, I wondered what I might be missing by going with the expected. I realized that this might be my only chance to actually live in another country. I have me whole life to travel. I gave my spot up to someone else in favor of an experience that immersed me in one culture rather than one that gives me a taste of many.

I chose Rome. I chose it for its food, wine, Vespas, and language. I wanted to live in a big city where I’d never be at a loss for something to do. But what I forgot to factor in was that Rome is one giant tourist trap. It’s a stop every traveler makes at one point or another, which doesn’t create ideal circumstances for truly living like the locals. A city filled with famous monuments and ancient art, there’s an abundance of photo-ops and group excursions. This is all well and good, but I know that there are places here that are off the beaten path. Places that aren’t plastered on the covers of travel guides.

Just the other day, I found an area just steps from the City Centre that isn’t overrun by tourists. I felt right at home when I stumbled upon via Governo Vecchio, a small side street that trickles off of the ruins of Julius Caesar’s palace (also a cat sanctuary). But what sets Governo apart is what’s in the stores themselves. Vintage store after vintage store line the street, each overflowing with clothes, bags, boots, and scarves from another era. Every one is packed tight with vintage goods, but each has a different feel. While some blast 80s pop-rock, others feature smooth jazz in a quiet ambiance.

If you’ve ever seen a genuine Sienna smile, you’d recognize the expression plastered across my face as I fingered through long pleated skirts and dusted off old fur coats. Vintage stores make shopping a museum experience. I love wondering who might have worn what I’m holding and what their story was. These stores are chock-full of undiscovered mysteries and lost memories.

I didn’t buy anything, but the experience was enough. I tried on a coat that’s now on the “Things I wish I could afford” list and was tempted to splurge on a “Club di Golf” vest, but alas, I left empty handed.

I’ve definitely discovered one of Rome’s little known gems. I’m excited to go back and scavenge through a new display of old clothes and I’m even more excited to keep exploring this city for places even Rick Steves keeps secret.