Ep 9. Rome Day Trips

In the ninth episode of season four of Smart Travels with Rudy Maxa, titled "Rome Day Trips," viewers join host Rudy Maxa on an exploration of the surrounding areas of Rome, Italy.

The episode begins with a visit to the ancient town of Ostia Antica, which was once the harbor city of Rome. Rudy takes viewers through the well-preserved ruins of this once-thriving city, including the Roman theater, public baths, and forum. Along the way, Rudy shares insights into the culture and way of life of the ancient Romans, shedding light on their architecture, art, and daily routines.

Next, Rudy heads to the hillside town of Tivoli, just outside of Rome, to visit two stunning villas. The first stop is Villa d'Este, a 16th-century palace surrounded by lush gardens and fountains. Rudy takes viewers on a tour of the villa's terraced gardens, observing the play of water and light in the mesmerizing fountains. He also shares stories about the colorful characters who lived in the villa, including Cardinal Ippolito d'Este, who commissioned the villa's construction.

The second villa on the tour is Hadrian's Villa, the sprawling estate that belonged to Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Rudy highlights the villa's impressive architecture and vast size, taking viewers through the ruins of the imperial palace, thermal baths, and artificial lake. He also gives viewers a glimpse into Hadrian's personality and interests, revealing how the emperor's travels around the world influenced the design and decoration of the villa.

The episode concludes with a visit to the peaceful town of Frascati, another hillside community just outside of Rome. Rudy explores the town's narrow streets and historic buildings, including the grand Villa Aldobrandini, built in the 16th century for a powerful Roman family. He also stops in at a local restaurant to sample the famous Frascati wine and enjoy a traditional Italian meal.

Throughout the episode, Rudy combines his love of history, art, and culture with his knack for storytelling, bringing to life the people and places that shaped the surrounding areas of Rome. "Rome Day Trips" is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the history and beauty of Italy beyond the bustling streets of the Eternal City.