Some places leave a mark on your heart forever, and Pompeii is undoubtedly one of them. Our visit to this ancient Roman city wasn’t just about seeing the ruins it became a day filled with history, family milestones, and emotional discoveries.

We arrived in Pompeii on a beautiful, sunny day, with temperatures sitting comfortably at 20°C—perfect weather for exploring one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. The timing was extra special because it was also Ali’s birthday, and what better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable journey into the past?

From the moment we entered Pompeii, we were captivated. This once-thriving city, preserved under layers of volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in AD 79, felt alive in a way we hadn’t expected. Walking along the cobbled streets, surrounded by the remnants of ancient homes, temples, and marketplaces, was like stepping back in time.

Georgia amazed us all with her energy, walking miles through the sprawling ruins without a single complaint. She explored every nook and cranny with boundless curiosity, taking in the mosaics, the amphitheater, and the remarkably preserved frescoes that told stories of a long-gone world. Dotty, too, was an absolute star—content and cheerful throughout, taking in the sights and sounds around her and she even navigated the cobblestone roads with some help but she did suffer a few stumbles and grazed knees 🙁

Pompeii’s ruins are a haunting reminder of how quick things in life can change, one day a thriving modern city the next life is forgotten and frozen in time, everything changed a stark reminder to make the most out of life!

Among the many fascinating sites we visited were the Forum, the thermal baths, and the beautifully preserved houses like the House of the Faun. Each spot offered a glimpse into the everyday lives of the people who lived here nearly 2,000 years ago.

But it was the plaster casts of the victims that struck us the most. Seeing the shapes of men, women, and children frozen in their final moments was deeply emotional and sobering. It’s one thing to read about history in a book; it’s another to stand face-to-face with its human side. The experience left us reflective and grateful—a powerful reminder of the resilience of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.

A Birthday to Remember

Amidst the ruins and the poignant moments, we also celebrated Ali’s birthday in the best way possible—surrounded by history, sunshine, and family. As we walked through the ancient city, we made sure to pause and take it all in, snapping plenty of photos to capture the day. Later, we treated Ali to a well-deserved birthday lunch on the site and reflected on incredible experiences we have shared.

Pompeii Should Be on Your Bucket List

Pompeii is a journey through time that leaves you in awe of the past and reflective about the present. It might be the sheer scale of the ruins, the intricate details of Roman life, or the emotional impact of its tragic history, there’s something here for everyone to connect with.

For us, it was a day of discovery, family bonding, and meaningful moments. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, make sure to add Pompeii to your itinerary Walk its streets, touch its history, and let it remind you of the beauty and how fragile life is.

Have you ever visited Pompeii, or is it on your travel bucket list? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts and stories!