Firstly, I wanted to get a resort in Rome, at the center of it all, but we ended up staying in Assisi, and it was a blessing in disguise. Rome would have been busy, chaotic - Assisi gave you peace and quiet perfection! The only noise you'll hear are throngs of tourists stomping the streets! It's best to put on your walking shoes, for walking is the best way to go around Assisi. Some nonsensical people attempted to drive their cars along its narrow streets, only to be thwarted by the crowds!
I fell in love with the picturesque medieval town, so full of history (not to mention the birthplace of my favorite saint!). We enjoyed meandering through its winding, cobbled streets, where every corner surprised you with quaint little shops - some, seemingly out-of-place with garish souvenirs, but most sold beautiful ceramic wares and religious icons. There was one store which had Da Vinci memorabilia and souvenir items. I tend to wander around, searching every nook, and several times, my husband and I lost each other, only to end up on the same street we started from - it was fun!
The highlight was the visit to the lower church to view the saint's tomb. Although I'm not Catholic, I appreciated the utmost reverence the people held for their hometown saint. I even got a litle surprise from a Franciscan brother who also hailed from the Philippines (it's a small world, indeed!)
It's a marvel that the people of Assisi were able to rebuild the town after a devastating earthquake four or five years ago. You could see some evidence of reconstruction here and there - huge cranes rebuilding cracks in the wall, etc. But, other than that, Assisi is glorious in its medieval splendor!