Rome
Pre-arrival meal of shakshuka was not bad for premium economy but presentation was decidedly awful. No one on board seemed to be complaining-- instead excitement seemed to build as we got close and closer to Rome. And as the airplane was turning around right away to do the FCO-SFO inaugural, more speeches from local underlings (again no one too senior), ribbon cutting, champagne toast, and for the plebes, some cake after the cake-cutting.
After lingering way too long at the gate on arrival for the speeches, ribbon cutting, and cake, plus saying farewell to Romaine (who was going back on the inaugural return), it was time to get in a very, very long line for a taxi and then off to the hotel. Le Meridien Visconti Rome is within the Aurelian walls but not quite in the oldest part of the city, but still a short walk to the heart of ancient Rome, so ultimately a convenient (if still somewhat spendy) location. Given I spent the afternoon working, also got to appreciate the view outside the window while working?
Evening walk hit some of the tourist highlights, including the Spanish Steps while on the way to dinner not too far from Roma Termini. The pizza place that Google recommended had a line out the door, but the random restaurant a few doors down had an excellent bolongese with a solid wine list. Would visit La Bottega Ristorante Punturi again.