One of the Best Views Over Roma
by Jmill42
On my first trip to Rome, I chose not to climb my way up to the top of St. Peters Basilica, due to in no small part, the 1000 degree temperature of the city in the summer. However, thankfully, on my second go around in the Eternal City I did. What was at the end of the round and round walk up to the top? A magnificent view over Rome. Standing so far above all the madness of the city and its gangs of noisy Vespas, you can really soak in all of the city's majesty.
Where is the Bathroom - Toilete - Ladies Room?
by icunme
Whatever you call it in English - It is there on my Italian phrases page (ITALY) "Dove sono i babinetti? (doh-vay so-no ee bah-be-nay-tee?) Where is the toilette? (signs are written t-o-i-l-e-t-t-e in Rome).
A few ways to approach this: Look for the bathrom - sign will say "Toilette" in your restaurant, hotel, or museum before you leave. If you are out in the streets of Rome - I strongly suggest you look for the largest hotel - walk straight through the lobby to the bar and ask directions (they will speak English). The bathroom in these hotels are elegant and accessible. If you go into a bar, you're expected to make a token purchase if you use the bathroom - I don't recommend it in the ordinary bar - you are apt to find no toilette paper and no toilet seat (you wouldn't want to sit if there were one available) - always carry extra Kleenex with you for such emergencies. Often men and women use the same facility. Avoid McDonald's - always nasty and no paper. Vatican is immaculate and someone is there cleaning constantly. Always carry a nice little supply of paper napkins with you as even nice restaurants seem to neglect this little necessity and can have no toilet paper.
Again - the large hotels are your best bet - dash off the streets to heed Mother nature's call.
If you're really lucky - you be near Piazza Barbarini and can head downstairs to the lovely facilities in the Hotel Bernini. Photos here to guide you along - please don't tell them Carol sent you!:)
Shoes at pza monte testaccio
by jurkka about shoe market
Every wednesday on piazza monte testaccio, on north side of the market hall there is several good shoe sellers. Locals go there to buy good up-to-date shoes cheap.
Check it out, market is small but hip, and there is not so much people. From 9am-2pm women shoes 20-70euros
Roman Taxis
by Jmill42
Initially, I took taxis to get around Rome, just because I wasn't brave enough yet, this being the first stop on my trip, and first time overseas. Boy did I learn quickly. you want to avoid taxis in Rome at all cost. And I do mean cost. They are so much more expensive than public transport, that they should only be used if you are in an extreme hurry, or if you have loads of luggage. Otherwise, the public transport might not look the best, but it always get you there eventually. Additionally, as in all major tourist spots, they can and will try to rip you off by charging you extra baggage fees, the wrong fares, etc. etc. Just be aware.
Pizza Please!
by sandysmith about Various local vendors
Of course slices of pizzas are so much tastier and enjoyable when eaten in a warm italian piazza! Spot where the locals go and you can be sure they are good. This vegeatarian concoction of mushroom, cream and ruccola was divine...I know someone else who would enjoy this too ;-))
Potato and herb pizza slices where also a favourite of mine. Cost about 2 euros a slice