In my many years working in tourism, providing private Rome tours, I have had the pleasure of meeting countless fascinating individuals. Every encounter is unique, but one person I recently met left an indelible impression. Allan, a Holocaust survivor traveling from Miami Beach with his wife, Lori, joined me on a private tour of Rome and Umbria. His life story, combined with our shared experience, reminded me of the power of history, resilience, and travel.

Exploring Ancient Roman History on a Private Rome Tour

Our journey began like many of my Rome custom day trips. Allan, despite being nearly 90 years old, was full of energy and curious about the ancient Roman history that surrounded him. He had a passion for history, and I made sure to include iconic Roman sites such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the lesser-known Pyramid of Cestius. Allan marveled at Rome’s rich past, and his enthusiasm was contagious.

The Catacombs: A Deep Dive into Rome’s Underground

One of the highlights of the tour was visiting the St. Calixtus Catacombs (San Callisto), located along the Appian Way. As a former engineer, Allan was fascinated by the intricate underground tunnels, and we spent time exploring the layers of history that lie beneath Rome’s streets. The Appian Way itself, an ancient Roman road, provided a profound moment for Allan. Overcome with emotion, he lay down on the basalt stones, connecting with the ancient history beneath him. It was a powerful, almost mystical experience.

A Custom Day Trip from Rome to Umbria: Discovering the Green Heart of Italy

The following day, I took Allan and Lori on a day trip from Rome to Umbria, known as Italy’s green heart. Our first stop was the town of Orvieto, where Allan admired the imposing Orvieto Cathedral. We discussed the significance of agriculture in Umbria, as farmers were in the midst of the olive harvest. Allan’s curiosity led us to a local olive mill, Frantoio Bartolomei, where we witnessed the olive oil-making process firsthand.

Experiencing the Olive Harvest in Umbria

At the olive press, we were treated to a tour of the farm’s small museum and observed the production of fresh extra virgin olive oil. Tasting the freshly pressed olive oil drizzled over toasted bread was a highlight of the day. Allan even purchased a few small cans to bring home as souvenirs of his custom day trip to the Umbrian countryside.

Allan’s Story: A Holocaust Survivor’s Journey

What made Allan truly special was his story. He was a Holocaust survivor, born in Poland, who had escaped persecution and rebuilt his life in the USA. During our trip, he shared parts of his remarkable journey. Allan wrote a book about his experience, titled Hiding in Plain Sight. The book details his survival during the Holocaust and reflects on what it means to be an American—an immigrant who built a successful career as an engineer, university professor, and lawyer.

For those interested in reading Allan’s book, I highly recommend it. Click here to read Hiding in Plain Sight.

A Unique and Memorable Experience

At the end of the day, I felt deeply moved by Allan’s resilience and outlook on life. His story, combined with our shared experiences in Rome and Umbria, serves as a reminder that travel is about more than just seeing famous sites. It’s about meeting inspiring people and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Why Choose Private Rome Tours?

If you’re looking for a personalized, immersive experience, private tours of Rome offer an opportunity to connect deeply with history and culture. Whether you’re passionate about ancient Roman history, the beauty of Umbria, or simply want a custom itinerary, a private guide can make your journey unforgettable.

Book Your Private Rome Tour Today!

Ready to create your own memories on a custom day trip through Rome or Umbria? Contact us today to plan your perfect itinerary and meet the people who make every journey special.