Round 2 of the Six Nations brought about a trip to Rome – The Eternal city, for the Welsh support. It was an early start for those travelling on the 3-day tour on the private charter flights from Cardiff, though clients were easy to spot in departures dressed head to toe in red.

    As our 2 charter-flights pushed back to begin the short trip to Rome, you could see the excitement of the fans building as Gatland released details of his line-up. 10 changes and 4 debutants gave us a small insight into thoughts of the Welsh Head coach ahead of the Rugby World Cup in Japan later this year. But how would this young side fare against the Azzurri on their home turf? Was this too much of a risk this early in the tournament? Would the Italians seize the opportunity to take their first win in the Six Nations since 2015?

    On landing in Rome, we were greeted with beautiful sunshine and 16⁰C weather that stayed with us throughout the weekend. After short transfers from the airport and checking-in at hotels, clients enjoyed their first evening in the city, with most deciding to explore the many eatery options in the locality.

    Friday was spent exploring parts of Rome that they had maybe missed the night before. Tours of the Vatican City or the Colosseum seemed popular whilst others walked between the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. The Pantheon was enjoyed in the evening where the Welsh Male Choir were performing – an incredible experience in a remarkable venue.

    We were also joined on Friday by our 2-night group who landed into Rome in the early afternoon which again provided plenty of time for a chance to explore the city’s offerings.

    Rome was almost impossible to walk through on the Saturday morning without seeing the red of Welsh shirts ahead of the game. We were joined by many of the sea of red at midday when we hosted our clubhouse event with guests including Carlo Festuccia who has over 50 caps for Italy and Lions and Wales legend Shane Williams. The event provided the 120 guests who joined us with a social occasion to interact with Shane and Carlo as well as a Q&A where we learnt more about the playing experiences of the pair as well as their thoughts towards the Rugby World Cup later this year and more immediately to the afternoon’s game.

    After this, transfers were provided to the Stadio Olympico in plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere before kick-off.

    It could have been argued that the game itself left a little to be desired with the result ending 15-26 after a late try from each side. However, job done. Wales had secured the win and proven they have talent through the ranks in doing so; a positive sign ahead of Japan.

    Short journeys back into the centre of town after the game provided revellers with one final opportunity to enjoy Rome and all it had to offer before getting a final night’s sleep for the flight back in the morning.

    A few bleary eyes were soon lightened up in the morning when clients began to realise the reason as to why there were a few empty seats on the outbound journey of one of our private charter flights. The likes of Josh Navidi, George North and Alun Wyn Jones sat amongst their team-mates at the departure gate gave the game away quickly, capping off what was an excellent weekend in Rome.

     

    Harry Barrett

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