When in Rome

Rome is a city like no other.

Venice has the water. Milan has the fashion. And Rome, without a doubt has history covered, and by the bucketload. 

For where else are you able to casually browse the wares of street sellers, gorge on a delectable slice of pizza or enjoy a glass of Italy's winning bitter orange infused aperitif, Aperol, against the backdrop of one of the greatest works of Roman architecture in the world... 

Most people I have spoken with seem to have a love-hate relationship with the city, and by my fourth visit, I for one felt like I been through a full blown marriage. The usual guide book jaunts being the Vatican, the Trevi Foundation and the Spanish Steps are polluted with snap happy tourists patiently attempting (for the five billionth time) to take the perfect shot to wow their Instagram followers. But so what? For, no amount of incessant photography can detract from the exquisite and unique beauty of Rome, which leaves first timers, frequent visitors and even native Romans, dumbfounded. 

Mini guide to Rome

Where to stay | One of the few criticisms I had of Rome is that it is ridiculously expensive. We shunned the overpriced hotels for a beautiful apartment in the centre, sourced on Airbnb. As there were five of us, it seemed silly not to. However if you still fancy fluffy pillow and other hotel comforts, try Hotel Lunetta. I treated my boyfriend to one night's stay at the charming hotel constructed from an ancient Roman theatre and complete with a spa - perfect for his post marathon recovery! 

What to see | The usual tourist infested places are a must see. So use your elbows wisely and brave the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps. To escape the crowds, head northwards to the charming and peaceful gardens of Villa Borghese. Rent a golf car and ride the leafy paths in style. Peruse the fruits and vegetable stalls of the morning markets in Campo De Fiori and listen to the sweet melodies of the street artists long into the night at Piazza Navona.

Where to eat | Due to the multitude of Italian cuisine sprouted up on every corner, it is really hard to get it right, unless of course you do your research. We had some awful meals (firmly eradicated from my taste buds), some satisfactory meals (for nourishment rather than pleasure) and one absolutely unforgettable meal. Thanks to Ad Hoc , advertised in all the good guide books. The food was simply delicious, impeccably crafted and made all the more enjoyable by a complimentary glass of spumante (Italian sparking wine)plus two whole bottles as a parting gift (!!). 

Fancy a quick getaway | For those with money to spare, Napoli (Naples) is a mere 1 hour 8 minute journey from Rome thanks to the new fast rail network. Having already spent our hard earned euros on dinner the night before (as above), we journeyed to a little neighbourhood called Ostiense located about 30 minutes from the capital. This quaint little town is blessed with an interesting museum, an intriguing castle and many a family run taverna.