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How Wealthy Romans Travelled - Importance of Roman Roads

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Leisure on the Move: Wealthy Romans and Their Travel Habits


If you think vacationing in luxury started with five-star resorts and private jets, think again. Wealthy Romans were the original travel influencers, jetting off (well, carting off) to their villas in the countryside or embarking on sightseeing tours of the empire’s finest attractions. Armed with money, status, and an entourage of servants, they turned travel into a status symbol long before Instagram.


art deco - pop art image of romans travelling
Rich Romans Travelled in Style

Luxury on the Road: Not Your Average Commute


For the Roman elite, travel wasn’t just about getting from A to B—it was about doing it in style. Imagine cushioned carriages pulled by sleek horses, loaded with everything from fine linens to imported perfumes. And because they couldn’t leave their entourage behind, they often traveled with a small army of slaves, cooks, and even musicians to ensure the journey was as comfortable as humanly possible.


For the average Roman, travel was a grueling affair. For the wealthy? It was a mobile VIP experience. Think of it as the ancient version of flying first class, but with fewer in-flight movies and more actual baggage.


Destination: Pleasure


The rich traveled for many reasons, but leisure was always high on the list. Some popular destinations included:


  • Coastal Retreats: Villas along the Bay of Naples were the Roman equivalent of Malibu beach houses. Cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum offered breathtaking views, thermal spas, and plenty of room to show off.

  • The Countryside: Wealthy Romans loved escaping the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy fresh air, sprawling vineyards, and hunting trips. (No hunting selfies, though—just elaborate mosaic depictions.)

  • The Wonders of the Empire: From the pyramids of Egypt to the bustling markets of Antioch, wealthy Romans loved to “see the world” without ever leaving Roman territory. They might even collect souvenirs, such as exotic animals, rare spices, or the occasional Greek philosopher.


Travel Gear Fit for an Emperor


Traveling in style required serious preparation. Forget packing light—wealthy Romans traveled with an arsenal of comforts:


  • Couches and Cushions: Because sitting on a wooden cart for hours just wasn’t an option.

  • Portable Kitchens: Complete with bronze cooking pots, fine spices, and chefs who could whip up a feast on the go.

  • Personal Guards: Bandits weren’t just a plot device in ancient tales—they were a real threat. Wealthy travelers often hired armed escorts to ensure their safety.

  • Bathing Equipment: Romans took their hygiene seriously, even on the road. Portable tubs and attendants for washing were non-negotiable.


The “Itinerary”: Planning the Perfect Trip


Traveling wasn’t as spontaneous as it might seem. The wealthy meticulously planned their routes, consulting maps and itineraries like the Itinerarium Antonini, a sort of ancient travel guide. This helped them avoid dodgy cauponae (inns) and ensured they reached the finest mansiones (official rest stops).


Today’s equivalent? Picture someone using Google Maps to avoid traffic and Yelp to find the best roadside diner—but without worrying about Wi-Fi.


How the Other Half Lived (And Traveled)


While the elite were reclining in luxury, the average Roman traveler had a much less glamorous experience. They walked or rode in basic carts, ate cheap bread and olives, and slept in cramped inns. For them, travel wasn’t a leisure activity—it was a necessity.

Meanwhile, the wealthy spent their journeys reclining, eating delicacies, and discussing philosophy. If Roman travel had Instagram, their captions would have been something like: “Chariot views 😍 #ConqueringLife.”


A Day in the Life of a Wealthy Roman Traveler


Here’s a hypothetical day on the road for a wealthy Roman:


  • Morning: Rise early to a servant bringing honeyed wine and warm bread. Watch the sunrise from the comfort of your private carriage.

  • Midday: Stop at a scenic villa for a multi-course lunch. Discuss politics and poetry with your companions while musicians play softly in the background.

  • Afternoon: Resume the journey, napping on silk cushions while the servants handle your luggage.

  • Evening: Arrive at your destination to a prepared bath, dinner, and entertainment. All while someone else unpacks for you.


Not exactly relatable for the modern traveler stuck in airport security or a roadside motel, but undeniably aspirational.


Comparisons to Modern Travel


For US readers, imagine wealthy Romans as the ancient equivalent of jet-setters flying from New York to the Hamptons for the weekend. For UK readers, think of them as the aristocrats heading to their country estates in the Cotswolds. The settings and methods may differ, but the vibe is the same: travel to impress, relax, and remind everyone of your superior taste.


Legacy of Roman Leisure Travel


The Roman elite set the tone for luxurious travel that persists today. Whether it’s private yachts or first-class tickets, the desire to journey in style remains a hallmark of wealth and status. They may not have had luxury luggage brands or loyalty points, but their commitment to comfort was second to none.


Conclusion: Leisure on the Move


For wealthy Romans, travel wasn’t just a means to an end—it was an art form. From the destinations to the journey itself, they turned moving from place to place into an event. So the next time you’re crammed into economy class or stuck in traffic, channel your inner Roman aristocrat. At least you’re not fighting off bandits or navigating muddy roads in a wooden cart.


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