Viva Rome! » Budget Travel

Rome is one noisy place!

Richard Callaby — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:41:57 +0000

Many people have asked me to describe Rome in one word. Noisy. There is a constant noise or soundtrack to the city. While some have mistakenly compared it to New York City in America I disagree somewhat. You see there is a lull in the noise level in New York. There does not ever seem to be any lull in noise in Rome however. This can be quite upsetting to someone who lives in a quiet neighborhood. In fact I could not get much sleep while i was living there because there was a constant noise of car alarms, garbage trucks, people arguing outside and the ever present ambulance sirens that seem to pervade every corner of the city.

Now some students could easily adapt to the noise level. I found it kind of hard to do so. I guess even though I grew up in a suburb in America I was not ready for the drone of the city noise. I am sure after time i would have adapted to the noise after more time in the city but just one month was not enough.

So if you are going to Rome and are going to actually live in an apartment then I would highly recommend buying ear plugs or some sort of white noise machine to make it easier for you to sleep. Some found that using their iPods with speakers a great way to fall asleep. I would recommend using this technique as you can more easily fall asleep to something that you are familiar with then these other distractions.

As I said I like Rome but it is not all wonderful. There are points of contention i have with the city and the noise level is by far the biggest one.

Eating out in the most unique McDonalds in the world

Richard Callaby — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:12:32 +0000

Yes I know eating out in McDonalds is probably one of the last things you want to do when visiting Rome. But there is one specific McDonalds I wanted to find and eat at. You see the Travel Channel did a special on the top ten most unusual McD’s to eat at and number one on their list was at Piazza di Spagna.

For those that really want to know exactly where it is at it is Piazza di Spagna 46/47 or right in front of a nest of white taxis. This is something I have noticed quite a lot while here. The position of every McD’s is always in nearby a tourist attraction. I guess the executives at the headquarters realise the need for a Big Mac for every American.

Now for those that are really curious I actually did eat there. I ordered a Big Mac value meal or meal number one, or for those Italians meal number uno. Was it any different then in the United States? Just ever so slightly. The salt on the french fries was rock salt and not that fine salt we use in our chain stores back home. Did it make a whole lot of difference? Not really. But since this is something I really wanted to do since watching the show it was something I made a point of doing.

That was probably the one and only time I will eat in McD’s while here. I am a big believer in the slow travel movement and eating in that particular restaurant kind of goes against my grain. But at least I can say that I have been there. It is just another story to tell.

Well that is it for now, Ciao.

Settling in to Italian Life here in Rome

Richard Callaby — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:08:00 +0000

Well I think I am starting to get a real feel of what life is like in Rome and Italy in general. It is quite nice actually with an emphasis on being a real person. Now I am a bit unusual for many Italians as I get up really early in the morning. After all I am in Rome for one month so I would like to see as much of it as possible.

Typically before I go to class I have a cup of coffee of one sort or another. For me I just love the Cappuccinos that this small cafe makes on Via Padova. The cafe is called Costa Rica as that is where they get their coffee beans. Many of the locals also usually stop there in the morning as well. I find that I can really operate in the day if I have a great cup of coffee in the morning.

You can really tell much about the city by watching the hustle and bustle of the locals. The same people walk by the shoppe everyday so I guess I am becoming a fixture of the neighborhood. I know that the baristas know I go there just everyday for my coffee.

Now those that know me back home know of my love for a great cup of coffee and I usually stop by Starbucks in the morning. Since Starbucks basically ripped off the idea of the whole coffee culture from the Italians I guess I am not really breaking any new ground here. But still when you have a routine you have at home it is nice to continue it in a foreign land. Brings some sort of normalcy to your day and makes the day more complete. That is my thinking on the whole experience here.

Even though the last couple of days it has been wet. Cold and raining the city is still beautiful. I went out today to the Trevvi Fountain to not only see the fountain but I am on a mission to find this one snack bar we went to the first time we came to Rome. But since basically all of the snack bars serve the same food finding that particular sandwich shop has not been too high on my list. You see all of their Procuttoo Paninis taste very similar. If you really want to save money and are on a budget just stop by any snack bar for your dinner or lunch the food is pretty good and very cheap. A typical Panino and Coke is around 7 Euros and if you want it with wine then it is around 9 Euros depending on the wine you choose.

Well that is it for now.Will keep you all updated on my further adventures in this Eternal City. Ciao.

Getting Lost in Rome

Richard Callaby — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:07:46 +0000

Well today I did something kind of different. I got lost in Rome. It was kind of on purpose though. I wanted to see where my feet would take me. I just picked a direction and continued walking. What I was trying to do was see the different parts of Rome on foot. You see Rome is one of those cities where each quarter or section has a different feel or personality. Some sections are really busy and noisy with a lot of activity. These sections or quarters are easy to get to with great Metro access and lots of bus service. If you want to live in a quieter area then I would recommend the outskirts of Rome where the construction is newer and the streets are far quitier. But just because the streets are less busy does not mean there is less crime. Actually I have heard that in Rome the suburbs can have more crime then in the city center. This is probably because it is so much more expensive to live in the city center so I guess the people have more wealth.

For instance one of the most wealthiest areas is by the Piazza di Spangna or in English by the Spanish Steps. This is a very rich and wealthy area of Rome with some of the finest shops in the whole of Rome. Those that can actually live there have plenty of money so the crime rate is pretty low. That and the police presence is quite high as well.

Getting lost was certainly an adventure that I can not really explain too much. You have to live and feel the city of Rome in order to fully understand what it is like to be here. It is something I highly recommend. I am so happy that I am taking my Italian language course from Torredibabele as the level of instruction is quite high.

I am on my second week and my Italian has gotten so much better then when I started. I still have a long way to go but with time and lots of practice I will get there. This school has a philosphy that I completely agree with in that they try to make you as uncomfortable as possbile so that you are forced to use as many resources to learn the language. They purposely place their students in situations where they are forced to use Italian on a daily basis. For instance I am forced to use Italian because the place I am staying in Piazza Bologna no English is spoken.

Also I have found that there is a huge contrast in prices with the Italian sections and the tourist sections of Rome as far as prices are concerned. If you really want to pay through the nose then by all means go to the tourist spots. But if you get off the beaten track you can save a lot of money. I am well under budget for this trip and I have had a few unexpected purchases. Well that is it for now. I will try to update you all again tomorrow. Ciao.

First day back in Rome New Impressions

Richard Callaby — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:44:21 +0000

Well I guess I am getting settled here. I went out to eat in my first real day in Rome. Nothing really fancy but something I have been longing to do for a while. I ate my first Roman pizza in a small pizza shop in Piazza Bologna. I had your typical Neapolitan pizza or the Margherita Pizza which is real simple pizza of tomato, basil and cheese. While many people may scoff at such an idea this is a typical Italian experience and you should really try this. The restaurant I ate at was called Pollo Dorro which I am not sure of the meaning.

Now the price of this mean was under 4 Euros so I guess I really made out. You see a pizza like this from a chef I know would cost close to double that amount of money. The prices of the meals in Rome do not have to be extraordinary.

One thing I am really regretting doing is not taking my camera along as I am sure many of you would probably like to see what I am talking about. I am going to have to make sure I bring my camera in the future.

Oh and one thing I am I am kind of proud of is getting a better feel for the traffic here. While I did almost get run over by a car I am actually kind of proud of that fact. I wear it like a badge of honor as I feel more like a local.

It is good to be back in the city again. Of course there was a bit of apprehension when I first arrived as I am not fluent in the language the locals are very accommodating and you should try to speak their language.

All in all I would say that today was a successful day. It does take time to get accustomed to a different culture. But in time you do start to get a feel for a place. After some time I am sure I will get more of a feel for this city as well. Only time will tell and I have plenty of it right now.

Budget Hotels in Rome – Near the Termini Station

Richard Callaby — Mon, 19 May 2008 19:28:58 +0000

The Termini station is one of the most popular ways to enter the city of Rome. Much of Europe is traveled by an efficient rail service that rivals the American rail service. The area around the Termini station however is usually not the most savory part of the city and precautions should be made when ever you travel alone at night. It is always best not to be outside at night as that is asking for trouble. This area is not really an historic center but can be a convenient place to stay when you are on a budget or want to just spend a night or two in the city.

Hotel Alex
Via Palestro, 35 – 00185
This hotel is unique in that it is the third floor of a great building near the station. All floors are served by an elevator so at least you do not have to climb up stairs after a full days walking around the city. This hotel is also equipped with flat screen satellite televisions is all of the rooms. You do not have to feel disconnected when you stay here.

Hotel Brasile
Via Palestro, 13 – 00185
A smaller three floored hotel that also has an elevator. A quite and quaint hotel that is sure to charm most travelers.

Hotel Fiamma
Via Gaeta, 61 – 00185
This hotel offers a bar that is open to all of the guests and a full breakfast which is kind of unique for Italy.

Hotel Galles
Via del Castro Pretorio, 66 – 00185
Once a residence of the nobles this hotel has been transformed from its earlier days into a grand hotel. A point of reference for many of the local business travelers and locals this hotel is a bit of a landmark it would seem.

Many hotels in this part of town are well kept up and maintained. However the area is certainly not for the weak of heart. However the shopping deals you can get here are some of the best in Europe and if that is part of your trip then be sure to check out the above hotels.

Budget Hotels in Rome – Near the Vatican

Richard Callaby — Mon, 19 May 2008 19:24:57 +0000

The Vatican is not really part of Rome or Italy for that matter. It is a separated country in itself. For many Catholics this is the reason to visit Rome in the first place. Some come as a pilgrimage to Rome just for visiting the Vatican and the various sites surrounding it. However are there any cheap places to stay near the Vatican? With so many people visiting the prices for hotels would be expensive as there is a high demand. However there are a few gems you can stay in that will not only charm you but save you some money as well.

Hotel Arcangelo
Via Boezio, 15 – 00192
This hotel is in the center of the city and is one of the closest establishments to the Vatican. An old home built around the time of Umberto I this is now a modern hotel that has been updated with modern air conditioning and fire suppression. A very safe and quaint hotel to stay in.

Hotel Bramante
Vicolo delle Palline, 24/25 – 00193
This hotel was recently restored and opened again in 1999. This hotel offers some modern comforts such as satellite television and of course air conditioning as well as private bathrooms for each room.

Hotel Emmaus
Via delle Fornaci, 25 – 00165
Only 100 meters from Saint Peters square you will find this hotel to be very close to the Vatican. This hotel offers a small bar that is open to all the guests and a buffet breakfast for all guests.

Hotel Spring House
Via Mocenigo, 7 – 00192
Also only 100 meters away from the Vatican’s museums this is an ideal place to be close to the Vatican. Larger then some of the other hotels this hotel is 6 floors large with an elevator that should accommodate some disabled or elderly travelers.

You can stay near the Vatican without emptying your wallet. It is much better to enrich the soul by enjoying the art work that is near the Vatican then emptying your wallet. I would much rather keep the money I earn then lose it for frivolous luxuries.

Budget Hotels in Rome – Near the Trevi Fountain

Richard Callaby — Mon, 19 May 2008 19:21:46 +0000

The Trevi fountain is one of Rome’s premier sites. By far one of the most visited fountains in all the world it is a wonder to the eyes. However for the budget traveler it can be very expensive to stay near there. But that is not to say that there are no budget hotels in the area. Far from it you just need to look around a bit. Fortunately I have done some of the looking for you and here is some of my picks of the better hotels in the area.

Hotel Accademia
Piazza Accademia di San Luca, 74 – 00187
Perhaps one of the closest hotels near the Trevi fountain this is a modern hotel that is very accommodating to Americans and others. Boasting free wireless internet access this hotel is ideally suite for the ever connected tourist that cannot seem to peel themselves away from the web. A larger hotel of five floors this place offers many luxuries you will not come across if you stay elsewhere. Such amenities include a private bathroom and a full breakfast in the morning.

Hotel Concordia
Via Capo le Case, 14 – 00187
This hotel is between the Spanish steps and the Travi fountains so you have your options with this one. A larger hotel of six floors with an elevator that is accommodating to disabled and elderly tourists. What is also interesting is that this hotels boasts of a roof top terrace that I am sure most will enjoy. Nothing is more enchanting then watching the sun go down on this historic city.

Hotel Madrid
Via Mario de Fiori, 93 – 00187
Also near the Spanish steps and the Trevi fountain this hotel can serve both locations quite well. This hotel also offers a roof top terrace and also some child care upon request so you can leave your kids in safety while you explore the city.

Hotel Elite
Via Francesco Crispi, 49 – 00187
A smaller hotel of only 2 floors that is still served by an elevator this hotel is quite charming. The hotel reception is still open 24 hours a day even despite its small size. Also even for its small size the hotel also offers a internet connection to all of their guests.

Hotel Erdarelli
Via Due Macelli, 28 – 00187
This hotel is run by the Erdarelli family believe it or not. So since this is a family run hotel you can expect a very warm and welcoming hotel stay. Not quite the experience you may receive at some of the corporate hotels so this hotel is more suited for the family travels and not the business traveler.

Most of these hotels are in the 2 or 3 star range and should accommodate most budgets. Some of the smaller hotels might appeal to couples without kids and the larger hotels are probably better suited for the larger families. Always look out for the amenities that are not mentioned in any guidebook as some of these hotels might offer services I might not know about.

Budget Hotels in Rome – Near the Spanish Steps

Richard Callaby — Mon, 19 May 2008 19:17:31 +0000

The Spanish steps are known for the Spanish embassy that happens to be near these very large steps in the center of Rome. Many tourists flock to these steps to just sit and people watch. Having been there myself I can see the attraction to that activity. Nothing is better then just sitting back and relaxing as the world goes by on its own. However due to the popularity of that area the hotels do not come cheap. Nor do the apartments for that matter. Many hotels are quite expensive. So I have taken some of my time to research some of the better hotels near the Spanish steps that are sure to appeal to most savvy travelers.

Hotel Forte
Via Margutta, 61 – 00187
Literally only a few steps away from the Spanish steps this hotel is ideal if that is where you wish to stay. Offering a continential breakfast that is sure to please most Italians and many Americans this hotel does not lack comfort. Every room has a private bathroom and television set so you are sure to be at home here.

Hotel del Corso
Via del Corso, 78 – 00186
A three story building with an elevator this hotel is accommodating to many disabled tourists. Offering many services including many sightseeing tours of all the sights in Rome as well as wireless internet access. This is an ideal place to stay for the budget conscious American.

Hotel Miro
Via del Babuino, 35 – 00187
Situated in a charming Rome palace this hotel is certainly a treat. Having a rooftop garden certainly adds to its charm and is sure to be used by many of the hotels patrons. With a reception desk that is open 24 hours a day this hotel is for those that like to take in the Roman nightlife.

Hotel Marcus
Via del Clementino, 94 – 00186
This hotel has many facilities at its disposal despite the small size. You can book a guided tour right here in your hotel Breakfast is served in the hotel so you do not have to go far in the morning to have a good meal.

Even though the area around the Spanish steps is one of the most frequented and hence expensive areas you can still find gems that fit your budget. Many of these hotels while small offer some unique amenities that you will not find in some of the larger hotels. You should always try and find hotels off the beaten track as many of these hotels will surely just enhance your vacation and not take anything away from it.

Budget Hotels in Rome – Near the Pantheon

Richard Callaby — Mon, 19 May 2008 19:12:42 +0000

The Pantheon is one of the greatest wonders in Rome. Why not stay close to it and see the surrounding area in greater detail? I know I would love to stay around this area as the architecture and history is just amazing. Truly a sight to see in Rome. However like most o f the other great Roman wonders this area is also quite expensive for many travelers and if you are on a budget then it may very well be out of reach for some. But do not give up as there are some options for this area and some offer quite an enjoyable stay.

Hotel Montecitorio
Via delle Convertite, 5 – 00187
This hotel is only 200 meters from the Pantheon so you will not find a closer location then this one! This is one of theup scale destinations as this hotel has plasma televisions in most rooms and the bathrooms are equipped with a hydromassage showers. You will probably pay slightly more then your standard budget hotel but the luxuries may very well be worth it.

Hotel Abruzzi
Piazza della Rotonda, 69 – 00186
A entirely renovated hotel in 2003 that lies in the center of Rome this hotel is not to be missed! Unlike many other hotels in Rome the continental breakfast is included in the price of the room.

Hotel Cesari
Via di Pietra, 89/a – 00186
This hotel is located in Rome’s historical center. Since this hotel is located between the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon you can have your choice as to what you want to spend the most of your time at. However since this hotel is near the Termini station it might be best to go out with someone at night just to be safe.

Hotel Adriano
Via di Pallacorda, 2 – 00186
This hotel is centrally located and is near the Pantheon, the Spanish steps and Navona square so this is an ideal location for the sightseeing traveler. A smaller hotel of only 4 floors this hotel still has an elevator so they may be accommodating the handicapped or elderly tourist.

I have stated many times that Rome is not for the cheap. There are some budget hotels out there that are worth staying in but you must look carefully. Some hotels however will offer some luxuries that you will not find anywhere else and it is okay to splurge now and then.