No easy task, mobilizing a large group, but Fleace' Weaver of BlackGirlTravel.com gently shepherded us, from LAX and through our layover in London-Heathrow. Our flight from London to Rome was a smooth one -- unlike the turbulent ride from LAX to London. Fleace and I discovered, much to our delight, that the Sicilian check-in agent at LAX had upgraded us to Business Class. (An Italian man giving us Love, before we even took off -- that's what *I'm* talkin' about!)

We reached Hotel Traiano in Rome around 1:00 am; still, most availed themselves of the late-nite fare of pizza and soft drinks. After a brief orientation, twelve stalwart souls braved the night at 2:30 am, to get an early taste of what Rome had to offer. Admirers called out and horns resounded, as we segued along. (Some stopped for flirtation and photo ops). Our hotel was ideally situated, such that we had only to round a corner to discover the bar, Nag's Head. We were an instant hit, and soon surrounded by ardent dance partners. About half remained to party there while the rest (myself, included) sharing a sense of empowerment at feeling safe walking downtown, in a major …

Join BlackAtlas.com Travel Expert-at-Large Nelson George as he takes you on a trip through Rome.

BlackAtlas.com continues it series of Black Heritage Month videos featuring black expatriates living in countries around the world. This week, former NFL player Harold Bradley - he played with the Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles - talks about his love affair with the arts and Rome, Italy.