Mary

British-born Mary arrived in Rome from Halifax, West Yorkshire in 1977 "just to see what it was like"—and never left. Since 2012, she has been sharing her adopted city with UnTourists, offering a unique perspective as someone who has lived a lifetime in the Eternal City. Mary is quick to clarify that she doesn't "do tours" in the traditional sense. "I am absolutely not a tour guide. I am a person who knows a lot about the practical side of the city, the best places to shop, eat, drink, visit, and walk," she explains. She sees herself as more of a friend who shares knowledge with the group, helping them navigate the transportation system and giving pointers on how to get the most out of their stay. "This way they don't waste time doing things they do not want to do," she notes. Mary finds that her guests are often interested in making comparisons between American and Italian ways of life, discussing everything from politics to social services and education. Her favorite Rome moment? "It has to be the magnificent view from the top of the Castel S. Angelo and the amazed look on our guests' faces when they step out onto that terrace."