We have continued to receive many requests regarding family-friendly accommodation around the world – here is the Crew's take on Rome.
While there is no shortage of places suitable for a romantic stay in Rome, finding a family-friendly place close to the attractions can be a challenge.
At the heart of Rome's transport network is the Termini station – it's the place where road, rail and just about every other form of transport converge. Unless you're an experienced driver with nerves of steel, or want to spend half of your holiday driving for hours, plan your trip around the city's transport network.
When in Rome, many Qantas Crew Members stay at pensiones – these are part B&B-part hotel and are usually run by local families. Close to town, most pensiones are staffed by friendly people who also speak English (parla Inglese). Some include breakfast (or at least a coffee) but always check when making your booking.
Our pick of the hundreds of pensiones would be Pensione Panda (Via della Croce, 35 - 00187). Nestled in a classic café-lined street, this hotel is family friendly and gives easy access to all the attractions. Some rooms have original classic artworks and while not five-star, it certainly makes a great base to capture the spirit of the city.
Around 1km from the Termini station you'll also find hotel Notti a Roma (Via Firenze, 25 - 00184). This charming B&B-style pensione offers excellent value and includes breakfast. Rooms are fairly basic but are clean and comfortable. A fellow crew member who is light sleeper suggests you avoid the room adjacent to the reception area which can be a little noisy.
Both these pensiones have rooms that can sleep up to four people, however given the limited space, we would suggest putting the kids in a smaller adjoining room and soak up a little of the romance of Rome!
Wherever you stay be prepared – most hotel rooms are quite small (tiny by some standards) and during the summer months (July and August especially) air conditioning is a must. It is common for hotels to charge extra (around six to 10 Euros) for the use of the air conditioner.
If you are travelling with elderly or disabled friends or family members we suggest you speak with (or email) the hotels well in advance and specify in precise detail your special needs. As you would expect, many hotels have narrow stairs and winding tight corridors which are difficult for some people.
Hotel etiquette also advises travellers to book in advance and if you're running late or are planning a late arrival make sure you phone ahead as staff tend not stay onsite and will usually wait for you to arrive.
Like in many places, a few words of the local tongue won't go unnoticed – especially if you train the kids to offer a smiling bongiorno (hello), grazie (thank you) and arrivederci (goodbye).
Spring and autumn is the best time to visit, although be prepared for peak crowds and peak prices.
Ask the Crew
Members of Qantas' Flight Crew are always on the move – here is your chance to ask about their travels. Best stopover destinations? Sightseeing, shopping or dining tips? Hot hotel picks? Submit your questions to: askthecrew@acpmagazines.com.au