Drink Like A Roman
I expected a lot out of my recent travels to Rome, and it didn’t disappoint. The food, the art, the architecture, the food (did I already mention that?); the sheer history of that fabulously ancient but modern city is mind blowing.
Going in, I knew hydration would be a challenge. You don’t spend two weeks in the world’s second largest wine-producing country and not sample their wares — at least I don’t — and a higher-than-average alcohol consumption was virtually unavoidable.
Grapes, grapes and more grapes!
At home I am rarely an arm lengths away from my next sip of water and although I tend to make-do while traveling, going without my daily requirement is never an option; especially with all the activities we had planned.
Lucky for me, the Romans had my back.
On the city sidewalks, in the parks and in the suburbs free-flowing, fresh, chilled drinking water is provided by the city at no cost through the nasoni, or public fountains.
SPQR: the Latin abbreviation is still used as the official emblem of the city. Translation: Senatus Populusque Romanus, the Senate and People of Rome. Credit: Slow Flyer, Flickr.
Ancient Romans understood the importance of providing water to their citizens, and thankfully that mindset still holds true today. The water is perfectly safe and a welcome sight for all. Flower vendors, dog-walkers and busy commuters routinely take advantage of the fontanelle (little fountain in Italian) and fill whatever container they have available.
Environmentally friendly, too!
Locals plug the spout with their finger and drink from the stream that sprays from a hole on top of the spigot; be warned it takes a bit of practice not to soak your shirt.
Credit: Ada Be, Flickr.
With twenty-five hundred nosoni scattered throughout the city, they are easy enough to locate; phone apps are available for the hopelessly parched.
The nasone have been a symbol of the city since their introduction in 1874. Credit: antmoose, Flickr.
Hydration is definitely an essential part of exercise, but it is equally important for general health, especially while traveling. Even slight dehydration can cause your feet to swell, make your head ache and cause constipation.
If you visit the Eternal City, don’t fear the water. Take advantage of the practical, charming nasoni and save those euros for the wine!
Wouldn’t it be great if every major city had these little fountains? —Karen