The Beginning. Traveling from Phoenix to Rome was 16 hours of flying time & total travel time of about 26 hours. We were so glad to finally arrive at our hotel, The Star Metropole. The next day was spent getting our bearings & checking out Rome. Later we met our group & leader, Michelle & set our schedule for the next day. Michelle & Francesco start us out at The Forum. Next we tour the Colosseum, the surrounding area including Cesaer's Palace, visit the famous Spanish Steps & the square where there is an art show taking place. Later we board the bus for a trip to "St Paul Outside the Wall" (cathedral). Monday begins with a tour of the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel , St Peter's Basilica & St Peter's Square.