A friend and myself will be taking a 13 night cruise (first cruise for both of us) to Italy on October 23. We are going to stay in Rome for another night after the cruise is over before we come back home to Kansas City. Does anyone have the name of a nice hotel that is reasonable $150-$200.00 a night?
Also I purchased a couple travel books and they mentioned that there is alot of pickpocketing in Italy. Is this true? If so, is there a good place to purchase money belts or does anyone have any other suggestions. Thank you very much. Marilyn
I typically have stayed at the larger hotels like the Marriot Park but the last time that I was in Rome, I opted to stay in a small hotel just a block away from the Vatican. It is called the 207 Comfort Inn. It is, of course, not affiliated with the Comfort Inn chain in the U.S. I had a very nice room with flat screen tv, king sized bed, private bath, towel warmer, wireless internet, minibar, and a view over Viale Giulio Cesare. You are just steps away from the Ottavio/San Pietro metro station. It is a new hotel run by a young couple named Simone and Lucia. It only cost me 135 euros per night but you may be able to get it cheaper.
Originally posted by marilynkirn:
Also I purchased a couple travel books and they mentioned that there is alot of pickpocketing in Italy. Is this true?
As with any foreign country, travel sensibly. Don't flash lots of money. Always have a firm hold of your handbag. Try not to get wedged amidst a lot of people. Don't give an expensive camera to a complete stranger and ask him to photograph you. Don't let anyone "borrow" your cell phone for an "emergency." (unless they are bleeding profusely from a head injury) Pickpockets, notoriously, are creatures of habit and frequent the same areas like the Termini train station. They like to hang out there because most tourists go through there to get to the airport. Don't be a target. Have a great time.
thank you for the information. Any other info you can tell me would be appreciated. Is it difficult to find ATM's, or is it better to use travelers checks? Also do you know what the normal tip rate is? Like in the US I usually tip 10-15%. Is this adequate for Italy? thanks again. Marilyn
Personally, I hate traveller's checks. They are a hassle to get and a hassle to redeem. In Europe they want Euros so, unless you have access to a European bank, the traveller's checks will have to be converted anyways. ATM's are very plentiful in Rome and that is your best option. That way you won't be charged extra. My advice is to get a lot of Euros at once to advoid multiple transaction fees. As far as tipping in restaurants, you will notice that just about all restaurants in Italy will charge you a pane e coperto. That is translated as bread and cover charge. Some restaurants will add a service charge as well. That being said, if you have an exceptional dining experience, feel free to leave 5%.
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