My Trip to Rome

My trip to Rome was an adventure filled with both highs and lows. As soon as we stepped off the plane, we were greeted by the excellent service of Rome limo transfer, a recommendation I highly endorse for anyone visiting the city. Arriving at our hotel, The Hive Hotel, located in the heart of the city near the iconic Fontane Trevi, we found ourselves pleased with its cleanliness and overall value, despite the somewhat steep cost of 250 euros per night. However, the additional charge of 15 euros per person for gym access felt excessive to me, warranting a somewhat lower rating of seven out of 10.

As we delved into exploring the city, Rome presented itself as a bit of a challenge. The city's disorganization made it difficult to navigate, and the lackluster customer service added to our frustrations. We had a particularly unpleasant encounter with a taxi driver who outright refused to turn on the air conditioning, stating that if we desired cooler air, we should rent our own car. The locals also seemed rather aggressive and impolite towards tourists, making it clear that careful planning and organization were imperative for any visit to Rome. Considering these factors, I could only give the city's transportation system a dismal rating of three out of 10.

Despite these hurdles, we managed to make the most of our visit to Rome. On the first day, we braved the crowds and visited the Vatican, where endless lines awaited us. Opting to skip the queue for a fee of 70 euros per person, we were able to enjoy a guided tour, which was well worth the cost.

When it came to dining experiences, Rome did not disappoint. Our first evening led us to Giardino a restaurant with impeccable service and delicious food, earning it a solid eight out of 10 rating in my book. For the best Pasta Amatriciana, we ventured to Trastevere and dined at Zi Umberto, a culinary gem.

Eager for an extravagant culinary experience, we reserved a table at Aroma, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in front of the Colosseum. While the prices were steep, the food and the incredible view more than justified the expense. We did face a slight hiccup upon arrival, as the open terrace was quite hot. However, the manager kindly allowed us to wait until the sun had set, ensuring a more comfortable dining experience. If you plan to visit a restaurant in Rome, I strongly advise reserving your spot after 8 o'clock to avoid the scorching heat.

Exploring the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Pantheon and the Fontane di Trevi, was a breathtaking experience. And while there were many attractions to see, indulging in the local cuisine was just as important. From Trippa Alla Romana to Spaghetti Carbonara, Bucatini Amatriciana to Artichokes Alla Romana and Artichokes Alla Giuda, and even Coda Alla Vaccinara, Rome's typical dishes provided a feast for the senses.

I must admit it didn't live up to my initial expectations. Therefore, I can only rate my overall vacation experience a six out of 10. I highly recommend avoiding the busiest times, such as summer, and instead opting for the more pleasant seasons of fall or spring.