Meetings in Munich ended this afternoon and I thought, what the heck, I’m already halfway to Rome — why not spend the weekend there before going back to London?

I arrive immediately post downpour and it’s as warm and humid as can be! The train station is just as scuffed I remembered from 2003 . . .

. . . but unlike 2003, when I was basically penniless and slept in a hostel in the old Olympic Village (on the top bunk of a bed whose bottom half was occupied by an obese naked snorer), this time I’m staying at a grand old hotel operated by Marriott. What a difference that makes!

The taxi ride from the train station past the ancient ruins jumbled amongst the modern city makes me already love it again. But no more sightseeing tonight. The best you get is this print of St Peter’s from above my bed.

Sweet dreams!