The "Crotch-Shot" Fiasco of Rome

Traveling can be a risky business.  Beyond the inconveniences of losing luggage, missing flights, or getting robbed, there's the even more perilous situations, like, stepping on a piece of gum as soon as you step out of the train station, or accidentally throwing your pizza all over the floor.  Do you know how much a slice will set you back in Italy?!  Didn't your mother ever tell you that euros don't grow on trees?

The struggle is real. Including the typo fail.

However, perhaps the most embarrassing moment of our 2014 Italy trip occurred on our first night in Rome.  We arrived later than expected, thanks to the punctual prowess of Italy's public transport, and eagerly took the restaurant recommendation of our hotel's concierge to placate our growling stomachs.  Tired from the hike up Mt Vesuvius that morning and the extended train ride from Naples to Rome, it would be fair to assess my nerves as a bit frazzled.

Danny and I were seated at Ristorante Babbo's outdoor tables, directly next to the main aisle across from the shelves of wine.  With a glass of the house white in hand and bruschetta to nibble on until our entrees arrived, I could feel the stress starting to melt away.  I fidgeted with my dress straps as we discussed the next day's itinerary.  And then, it happened.

"Oomph!"

As I adjusted my dress, elbows out, I gave a firm shot to the crotch of a passing waiter.  Only impeccable training and composure saved his tray from an untimely fall as he clutched himself in pain.

"Scusi, signora," he gasped, as I sank back into my chair in utter mortification, before he turned and walked away quickly, albeit gingerly.

"I need another glass of wine," I said to Danny as I downed mine.  "Only in Italy could you give an elbow shot to your waiter's crotch and he's the one to apologize to you."

***

The look on the waiter's face after my ill-timed elbow.

Have you ever embarrassed yourself while on vacation?  Please, spill the beans!

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