traveling rome
Perhaps you’re one of the few who basically don’t like to be around people for too long, not to mention have them as your traveling companions. What else can you possibly do? For those who are taking Rome excursions entirely on their own, there are certain dos and don’ts that you may want to follow:
1. Avoid driving as much as possible. Though Rome can be one of the most beautiful places you can ever been, it doesn’t mean they have the best traffic system. First of all, there are many erratic drivers. What’s more, you have to deal with a number of other elements including moped, trams, and pedestrians. Thus, during Rome excursions better leave your car in your hotel and simply walk. You can get a better feel of what it’s like to be walking along Roman path.
2. Know the taxi services. If you can’t basically handle Rome excursions by foot, or you simply don’t like taking the tour bus, at least rent a taxi. The driver knows the city too well, so he’s an expert in going around traffic jams. Take note, though, that you should only pick white and yellow taxis, for they’re the official ones. The meter also starts to run not on the moment of picking up but after you both placed down the receiver. There’s no need to give them any tip, unless you’re generous enough to do so.
3. Go for hotels with terminal transportation. Sometimes Rome excursions can start at some point, and your hotel may be located not quite near it. You can save a lot if you can reserve room accommodations in hotels with free terminal transportation.
4. Get rid of tourist traps. It’s not unlikely that the Romans are not only popular for their arts but also for their food as well. Ever tasted their pasta? Definitely, you’ll know what ambrosia is. However, there are also several pretentious cafes around. When you’re in Rome excursions, make sure you don’t bump into them. Usually, these are restaurants with huge American signs plastered all over their shops. Their cuisines are not original Italian, and their prices are high.
5. Plan your budget. No matter what tour you’re in, you’re still advised to create your own budget. Not all entrance fees are covered by tour prices. So before you can get any more surprised to learn that there’s no way of getting in than paying, then better bring a few bucks with you. If you’ve done any research, ensure that you’ve brought more than what’s stated in their website. Prices can rise so fast.
6. Be comfortable. Skip anything fashionable and go for something comfy. Remember, you’re going to do a lot of walking, and high heels can’t certainly give you your much-needed leg support. Rather, put on some rubber shoes or sandals and your well-loved jeans and shirts. It does pay, though, to make a research as to what clothes are fitting in a particular area. For example, majority of Rome excursions can include the Vatican. They’re very strict when it comes to dress code. It would usually mean no sexy dresses, shorts, and tank tops for the women, and no offensive shirts and tattered jeans for men.
In the end, the success of your Rome excursions will largely depend on your taste. If you’re a great lover of history, arts, and culture, then the best way to enjoy the Eternal City and get into its insights would be hiring a local Official Tour Guide which will lead you through its hidden magical treasures.
If not, then you can comfort yourself with numerous cafes and shopping districts found all over the area.
Paolo Pedica writes articles for Rome tours. The author gives valuable information about Vatican tours and Rome excursions, Ancient Rome and Vatican gardens which are available at http://www.rome-tour.com/
Traveling to Rome, Barcelona and Paris looking for tips and good places to stay.?
I will be there in March 2008. I just want somewhere with a good location, clean sleeping quarters and not 300 euros a night. Any Help is apperciated! Any tips for traveling in these countries or place that should not be missed (less the obvious ones i.e. vatican, eifel tower)
As far as good moderate hotels I rely quite a bit on the website accor.com you can type in the city and it will list a number of hotels. The medium line of these hotels are Ibis & Mercure. I have stayed in many of both through out Europe and they are always clean and decent location. Sometimes breakfast is included. Also in Europe I have great luck with Best Western (never in the US tho). BW hotels are family owned and normally very clean and safe with breakfast.
Rome:
Make sure to see the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Coliseum, Palantine Hill and all the ruins of course.
Enjoy at least once a pizza, capaccino and a gelato (trust me you will want more of each)!
Tip: Rome is VERY expensive, but if you walk a few blocks away from the sights (down any alley) you will find food and coffee much cheaper.
Barcelona:
Shopping is great in Barcelona! The city centre is pretty and you can walk down the BLVD to the port. see the Guadi buildings and the Famillia.
An easy day trip from Barcelona is to take the train to the town of Granollers. It’s a nice ride (45 min) thru the countryside. Granollers is a nice little town with shops and cafes – the best pastries.
A good restaurant for Paella is 7 doors or 7 Porto it’s just down the street from the Port.
Also a must try is the squid in Barcelona. Baby pig is excellent! Seafood in Barcelona is grand.
The first thing to do in Paris is to take a boat on the river. You will see all the famous sights and get your bearings as to what you want to see.
You can catch a tour boat in St Michel close to Notre Dame. Speaking of St Michel – you’ll want to takle time and stroll this area of Paris – it’s the real thing.
Eat crepes with nutella and have a coffee at an outdoor cafe. The mussels will be good anywhere in Paris.
Bon Voyage!
travel Rome
