The tickets for our tour of the Vatican had been booked for over a year, and we were so looking forward to touring such a significant landmark. Irene made it very clear as to what we should wear and bring with us, however nothing could've been enough preparation for the crowds of people that were with us from the moment that the bus dropped us off, 'til the moment we were picked up again. Irene told us that it was a "light" day (tourist wise), however we were thoroughly overwhelmed by the hoards of people who wanted to experience the land of the "Papa." It was incredible and scary at the same time.
The Vatican was an experience none of us will ever forget. Irene led us on a thorough tour through the Vatican Museum, where we saw frescoes by Raphael, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. It was awe-inspriring to be in such a landmark, and experience a truly historical and influential place.
After the Vatican, we left Rome and drove back to our hotel where we were given some time to rest, and change into our formal dress-code for our performance that evening in a local church. We performed with the choir of a local school, and then visited their school on Saturday. It was a long, fun, and rewarding day.