The Eternal City…

Looking to the year ahead, as always in our blog, we will continue to recommend spots to discover; places to lose yourself in; and cities for adventures. But, this will take a new format this year… what better way to recommend a destination than sharing our own experiences?

Once a month one of our colleagues at Muchosol will share a destination which they have visited, loved and would recommend. We will reveal the amazing spots which you can’t find in the travel guides and the best places to try authentic cuisine.

To get things started this month and with Valentine’s Day around the corner our colleague in the marketing team, Amparo, lets us in on one of her favourite destinations for a romantic break. Let’s find out which destination she has chosen…

Hey Amparo, tell us, which destination would you recommend?

Well, with Valentine’s Day approaching, I would like to suggest a city I love for a romantic escape: Rome.

What’s so special about Rome?

Everything! I visited Rome for the first time a few years ago with my family and I already loved it back then. But last year I returned with my partner and rented an apartment in Rome and the city caputured my heart even more! Everything has a special charm about it, its cobbled streets, its monuments, its rich history, and its cuisine too… incredible!

Which parts of the city are impressive to visit?

The first time that you visit the city there are several sites which are an absolute must see: the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum. Some of the squares which are not to be missed include Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna and Piazza de Venecia. And of course you cannot forget to visit the Trevi Fountain and throw a coin over your shoulder in the hope that you will return to the city one day – it worked for me!

What do you like most about the city?

I love the art, and what is special about Rome is that the whole city is art. There is so much history and there are still traces of roman civilisation throughout; there is so much to learn and discover. There are even moments when you feel like you have gone back in time to a different era. For example, in the Colosseum you can imagine the gladiators touring their rooms. It’s an amazing experience!

Which is your favourite part of the city?

For me it is El Trastevere. It is more than just a place, it’s a neighbourhood. I love it in the evenings when it’s buzzing with people. The pretty little lights illuminating the restuarants and the narrow, cobbled streets makes El Trastevere a charming area.

Do you know of any secret spots in the city that you can tell us about?

Yes, for sure! When I was there with my partner, a waiter recommended going to the Orangery at sunset. He told us that the views of the city are spectacular from this spot and he was not wrong! It’s a beautiful and wonderfully romantic place. A visit is a must!

What would a perfect day be like in this city?

I would start the day with a leisurely breakfast on a little terrace near to the accommodation. Then, with recharged batteries, I would visit the main sites of the city. At lunchtime I would pick out a trattoria and attempt to eat one of their huge pizzas, they are the biggest pizzas that I have ever seen! Next I would continue discovering the city, stopping for a delicious ice cream in the streets if I fancied. After that I would do a spot of shopping and probably visit the art galleries in the Piazza Navona. To finish the day off nicely I would go for dinner in one of the restaurants in my favourite area, El Trastévere, and then take a stroll through the streets. Finally, I would head back to the accommodation to sleep and recharge for the next day, ready to discover more of what the city has to offer!

What would be your song of the trip?

“Viva el amor” by Paola y Chiara. It is sung by two italians whom I discovered during my first trip to Rome. I immediately bought their first album and since then I have been a huge fan!

Can you describe the city in two words?

History, art and magic.

Any advice for future visitors?

Yes, my advice would be to go with the flow… Rome is a city which you shoud discover slowly, bit by bit. Although it is important to see all the main monuments, it is great to go around the city on foot and get off the beaten track. Try to explore less busy streets, eat in restaurants in smaller neighbourhoods and chat with the locals. Ultimately, forget the guide books and allow the city to surprise you!

Amparo, thanks for sharing your experience. We hope that you have helped our readers if they are planning a short break to this beautiful city.

We are now waiting with anticipation for the second installment of “Our Team Recommends”. Can you guess which destination is waiting to be discovered next? Here’s a clue: It will burn!