Yes, It’s Quite Hot

Thank you to everyone who reached out to ask how we're surviving the heat. We've read that this is the longest heat wave in Rome's recorded history, so at least we know we're not total wimps for finding it brutal.

We've developed a European coping strategy: up early for class and errands, back at midday for a nap, out again as the sun goes down. (The un-European part of that is the air conditioning for the nap.)

The humidity is its own adventure — unpredictable, and unpleasant even without direct sun. We went grocery shopping at 9pm on Friday and came back dripping. Last night we saw a modern dance performance at the Baths of Caracalla; at check-in, they handed everyone a program shaped like a fan. I'm still not sure how the dancers managed in that heat, but they were extraordinary.

On the bright side: I love going out at night without having to bring a wrap. It’s liberating.