“Popemania” was everywhere when I landed in Rome on a sunny morning in late May. Pope Leo XIV had just been installed at the Vatican, which was extra-special since not only is he American but also from my hometown of Chicago. I enjoyed sharing my pride with many locals whose shops carried everything from Pope cookies to scarves, ties and memorabilia. It seemed everyone wanted to talk about Il Papa. My trip also coincided with the Rome Jubilee Year 2025. Despite the crowds, all of this made the trip to my ancestral homeland timely and rewarding.

I treated myself to a three-night stay at Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria (and, again, more Pope conversations). As a Hilton Diamond member, I was upgraded to the Imperial Club level, where I enjoyed a terrific room with all the amenities and outstanding service in the lounge. I could have spent my entire visit inside this luxurious complex, but The Eternal City awaited.

An amazing view.

The hotel was a great location for walking and exploring, including Vatican City, already on my agenda prior to the papal announcement. While I had briefly visited St. Peter’s Square and Basilica in the past, I spent an entire day there to soak up the atmosphere. It was buzzing with activity, including lots of tourists with American flags. I encountered one Italian man who fitted his adorable dogs with leashes honoring the pontiff. The gentleman spoke no English, but he (and I am convinced his puppies) grinned widely as we attempted to communicate. Creativity definitely ruled the day.

Adorable pooches with Pope apparel.

I also enjoyed visiting Caffe Castorino and connecting with Francesca Castorino and my newly discovered family, who are the master brewers of this wonderful coffee. I was anointed an honorary barista during a special ceremony, complete with a fashionable graduation hat.

I’m with Francesca Castorino at our namesake coffee company.

A most fashionable barista!

I departed the city just as Mt. Etna on Sicily was preparing to awaken. Fortunately, it didn’t interfere with my travel but would have been quite the sight — from a distance, of course. The only other disappointment was I didn’t get to see Pope Leo in person. But just knowing he was on the very premises I visited was quite enough for now. I look forward to returning and hopefully having an audience with him. I’ll be sure to bring my namesake Castorino Coffee.

— Sue Castorino, Globility Board member and guest blogger