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Travel to Roma

ITALY

Travel to Roma

The beginnings of the city are surrounded by legend, the story goes that Rea Sylvia, who was a daughter of the local King Numitor, had two twin boys after Mars raped her. The sons were consequently abandoned because nobody would kill them, and they were then found by a wolf who gave them to a shepherd. Named Romulus and Remus, these twins went on to found the cities boundaries on Palantine Hill. However, the desire for power proved too much and Romulus eventually killed Remus succeeding as the first monarch of Rome in 735 BC. Of course Rome could have merely been founded because of its excellent location near trade routes. The city has had a turbulent history becoming a Republic in 507 BC but soon slipping back under Imperial rule after the murder of Julius Caesar. Rome ceased to be the world power around 300 AD and throughout the following centuries became a shrine to Christianity and Renaissance art under the influence of the papacy. Today wandering around the city visitors cannot help but be amazed by such a diverse metropolis where ancient ruins mix so easily with modern life. Exploring is more a case of accidently stumbling across hidden piazza’s and churches and this suits the Roman way of life which is slow and laid back. The city is not famed for its nightlife and society here is much more provincial than one would initially expect. Nevertheless, as Lord Byron stated Rome is ‘the city of the soul’ and this city, which is saturated in history, is inspiring to the thousands of travellers who visit each year.

General Descriptions
Places: 

1. Colosseum and the Roman Forum
The majority of what is left of ancient Rome stretches South East of Capitoline Hill and offers an excellent insight to the history of the city. The Forum was once the heart of the Mediterranean world and hours can be spent exploring it. The entry fee to the Colosseum is definitely worth it as the sheer size of the structure cannot be fully appreciated from the outside.

2. The Vatican
The Vatican city was established as independent in 1929 and remains one of the most intriguing of the city’s sights. Although the queues are long the Vatican museums are breathtaking and ticket price includes access to the Sistine Chapel. Just further along the Via di Porta Angelica is Saint Peters Piazza and Basilica which are both impressive.

3. The Villa Borghese
The Villa Borghese is one of Rome’s largest green spaces and it also home to the Museo e Galleria Borghese which holds sculptures and paintings by artists such as Bernini and Raphael. There are also two other museums, The Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna and the Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia.

4. Spanish Steps
The Spanish steps today are surrounded by Rome’s designer shops but throughout the nineteenth they were the place where young wanabees waited to be talent spotted. Regardless, they are still a good place to sit and relax and escape the bustle of the city.

5. Trastevere
The district of Tratevere with its windy cobbled streets is great for exploring on foot. Its boasts numerous restaurants which nearly all have outdoor seating, meaning you can enjoy your evening meal whilst experiencing the unique nightlife.

Stay, Eat, Watch The World
Where to stay: 

1. Residenza Cellini
Exceptional service in the ancient heart of Rome, this intimate hotel is within walking distance of attractions such as the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Service includes optional airport pickup as well as organised guided tours around the city.
(reasonable)
2. Caesar House Residenze Romane
An luxurious residence which offers access to a gym, Turkish bath and limousine service. The rooms are unusually large and combine touches of the classical style with modern comforts. The hotel boasts views of the Roman Forum and is close to shops and restaurants.
(reasonable)
3. Hotel Santa Maria
Hotel Santa Maria is located a recently restored 16th century convent within the characteristic district of Trastevere. An excellent choice for honeymooners due to its romantic atmosphere.
(reasonable)
4. Hotel Artorius
A small family run establishment who offer excellent hospitality to all the guests and groups are welcomed. The hotel very close to the underground lines A and B which link it to the rest of the city.
(reasonable)
5. Albergo del Senato
This centrally located hotel caters for business conferences as well as holiday makers. The multi lingual and friendly staff at make excellent advisors on the city and a beautiful terrace allows spectacular views of the city.
(budget)
6. Hotel Lancelot
Hotel Lancelot is a three star hotel tucked away in a quiet residential area but is also within walking distance places of interest. The most distinctive feature is the ‘round tables’ which guests dine around in the evening and at breakfast.
(reasonable)
7. Relais Pierret Piazza di Spagna
Right next to the Spanish steps this ideally located hotel offers suites for up to three people. There is free internet access and pets are welcomed, however breakfast is not provided.
(reasonable)
8. Splendide Royal
This boutique hotel facing the Villa Borghese park has excellent amenities and rooms that seek to emulate the splendour of the Roman palaces. On the seventh floor is the Michelin star restaurant the Mirabelle popular with Italian politicians.
(lush)

9. Hotel S Anselmo
Located in one of the cities exclusive residential areas this hotel is a few minutes walk from the Basilica of Santra Sabina. Although a good service is provided the hotel is more suited to couples than families.
(reasonable)
10. Capo d’ Africa Hotel
The building itself is fringed with palm trees and the interior also makes a dramatic statement where the two roof top terraces offer views of the Colosseum. The rooms are well equipped and modern. The Centrum Bar of the hotel serves excellent light meals and varied selection of drinks.
(lush)

Where to eat: 

Gelato, like through the whole of Italy, is popular in Rome and can be brought from street venders in a variety of delicious flavours. In the summer the Romans prefer grattachecca, which is crushed ice mixed with fruity syrup.

Traditionally dominated by the cuisine of the working classes the one of the most popular pasta accompaniments in Rome is a simple but delicious oil and garlic or perhaps pecorino and ground black pepper.

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