navigating rome solo: is it really safe for us?

I’ve always dreamed of seeing Rome’s ancient ruins up close, but now that I’m finally planning to go—on my own, no less—I can’t help but feel a bit anxious. I’m not exactly a spring chicken anymore, and while I love the idea of wandering cobblestone streets and soaking up history, I keep wondering: how safe is it really for someone like me to explore Rome solo? I’ve heard stories about pickpockets near the Colosseum and Termini station, and I’m not sure if I should be worried or if it’s just overblown tourist paranoia. I’m also trying to figure out the best way to get around. Walking sounds romantic, but my knees aren’t what they used to be, and the thought of tackling Rome’s metro system with a map in one hand and my reading glasses in the other is a little intimidating. Is it easy to navigate, or am I setting myself up for a headache? And then there’s the question of where to stay. I’m not looking for luxury, but I also don’t want to end up in a noisy hostel full of college kids partying all night. Has anyone found a quiet, affordable place that’s still close to the sights? I’d love to hear about your experiences—good or bad. Sometimes it feels like all the travel advice out there is aimed at twenty-somethings with endless energy and tiny backpacks. Where’s the real talk for the rest of us? #solotravel #rome #safetravel #Travel