Pope Francis presence was just so surreal. It felt so light. It felt so encouraging. Even to this day I could not explain why.
Raised a Catholic and having attended a Catholic school until high school, Ive always been mesmerized with the thought of someday visiting the Holy Land and Vatican City, two popular pilgrim sites for Catholics worldwide. As I grew older my views on religion and spirituality have changed, but my respect for tradition remains.
Despite all the mystery and controversy surrounding Vatican City, Im amazed by the power of faith in those who seek solace in attending the Popes public mass, or in simply stepping foot on the citys grounds. While faith knows no space and time, its an amazing thought knowing Im re-living the tumultuous journey of pilgrims from hundreds of years ago. Im just thankful that its so much safer and so much easier in this day and age.
Tips on Visiting Vatican City
The best way to get to Vatican City is via Rome, by car, train or if youre up for it, by walking. Its only 3 kms. from Fontana di Trevi, and takes around 45 minutes by walking, 12 minutes by car, and 30 minutes by train.
Although there is no visa check when you get to Vatican City, for Philippine passport holders, please dont forget to apply for a Schengen visa! Application is usually directed with the Italian consulate as Vatican City is almost always a side trip when visiting Italy. For more info, visit VFS Global, now the only authorized Schengen visa processing facility in the Philippines. Most EU consulates do not handle visa applications any longer.
If you could pick a day to visit, it is highly recommended to attend the weekly Papal Mass or the Papal Audience (sort of like a meet and greet) which usually falls on a Wednesday. As the Pope has many events to attend worldwide, be sure to check the updated schedule on the Papal Households Official Site. Tickets are absolutely free, and can be collected directly from the Swiss Guards at the St. Peters Square (Word of caution: All Swiss Guards, by law before hiring, should be married. Despite this invisible untouchable status, Im sure theyve grown a fan base from all over the world! *Drool*)
Vatican City, like most pilgrim sites, can be a tourist trap. Check at least two souvenir shops so you can compare prices; and make sure you check reviews before deciding on a restaurant. Some restaurants trick travelers by charging service water, bread, even tablecloth! To be safe, bring snacks to tide you over, and save your lunch cash for when you get back to the heart of Rome.
Download Google Maps and make use of its offline access feature. I used to download a different app per country, but this just beats all of them for finding the best routes and restaurants. Plus, I dont have to be on data all the time.
