Welcome to The Beehive!

We created The Beehive Recommends hoping our advice and personal recommendations will make your visit to Rome that much more enjoyable. Restaurants, gelaterie, coffee bars and wine bars are divided by location of specic popular sites. Weve included addresses, but ask at reception if you need help with directions on how to get to any place listed below. You will also nd Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), and practical information. Holistic Rome! is for those of you interested in specically vegetarian/vegan food and/or organic natural products and therapies. This guide is by no means comprehensive, so please let us know if you have any other questions or if there are any errors or changes we may not be aware of. Please know that your comfort, enjoyment and opinion truly does matter to us. If you have any suggestions, comments or questions and if we are not around, please e-mail Linda at [email protected] or Steve at [email protected] The Beehive has grown and changed a lot since its initial humble beginnings and we owe our success to the many wonderful guests who have come through our doors. We have had the good fortune of having many of you as return guests, and truly enjoy and appreciate the rapport and relationships we have cultivated over the years with so many of you and hope to with those of you we have yet to meet! We truly hope you enjoy your stay in the magical and maddening city that is Rome! Linda & Steve

GUIDE TO FOOD SECTION - BEEHIVE TIPS:

Most restaurants are open for lunch between 12:30 pm and 3:00pm (15:00) and open for dinner at 7:30pm (19:30) until late. Reservations are strongly encouraged for dinner especially for Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Please note that many restaurants are closed on Sundays. Tipping is not expected, but is a nice gesture if you have had good service. If a cover is added, tipping is not required. Otherwise, you would round up. For example, if your bill is !48, you may want to leave !50. Please restrain yourself from leaving 10-20% of the bill. It truly is not expected and unnecessary. The restaurants listed below are in no particular order of price and we have not listed any ultra expensive restaurants here. However, the only truly budget food in Rome is pizza by the slice. Before ordering, ask if theres anything fuori menu (off the menu). Sometimes restaurants wont tell you if they have any specials that day unless you ask. For example, you could be missing out on Mammas lasagna made on Sundays at many family-run places or fresh gnocchi traditionally served on Thursdays. Pizza al taglio (Pizza by the slice) -you point to your choice, indicate how much (or how little) you want and then the clerk cuts it and weighs it - you pay by the weight. Most of these places have very limited seating. Pizza made in wood burning ovens (pizza forno a legna) in a sit-down restaurant environment. Roman-style pizza has a very thin, crispy crust, whereas Neapolitan-style pizza has a thicker, doughy crust. Please note that pizza served in restaurants is usually generally only available in the evening unless they use electronic ovens to cook their pizzas. For many pizzerie it is just cost prohibitive to keep wood-red ovens stoked all day long. Tavola Calda: Tavola calda is the term for a place that offers buffet style food choices from alreadyprepared food. It's a less expensive option than a restaurant that has table service. Gelato:! Even though they all look great, not all gelato is created equally. Avoid gelato that comes in plastic tubs and gelato that comes in huge mounds in bright garish colors (the brighter the more articial the ingredients). Please note that some gelaterie close during the winter months. Cash only. If you are a gelato afcionado Rome has a plethora of excellent gelato now made to high standards with well-sourced natural ingredients. Accept the panna (whipped cream) for an extra bit of indulgence. Also, if you nd yourself near the Tiber River, grab an alternative to gelato: the grattachecca shaved ice. These stands along the river are only open during the summer months Gluten intolerance: With changes in wheat strains and hybrid wheat with higher gluten content, many Italians now have problems with gluten or wheat. If you have a wheat or gluten intolerance you might ask if a restaurant serves rice pasta (pasta di riso) as many places do have them available, but not on the menu. If you are gluten intolerant, also be aware that gluten is used as a thickening agent in gelato of lower quality. Gelateria dei Gracchi, Fatamorgana, Gelateria del Teatro, il Gelato and others in this guide are just a few of the gelaterie that we know do not use gluten in their gelato. Some of these gelaterie even offer gluten-free cones. Typical Roman coffee shops called bars are where you can down a quick coffee on the go in the morning (breakfast is a non-event here) or kick back with a Campari & ice in the afternoon, while getting an earful of Roman dialect spoken by the locals. Some of these places also act as fast foodwhere you can pick up an inexpensive sandwich on the go or get a quick plate of pasta (frozen from a package and not fresh). For a true Roman experience, just step into any of the hundreds of little local coffee bars in the city. If you need to use the restroom, these are also convenient places to go, but hygiene standards in many of them are not at a high level. Get in the habit of bringing portable packs of tissues with you while you are out and about since many places believe toilet paper is a luxury. You can read more practical tips like this on our blog at: www.the-beehive.com/blog Wine bar (enoteca) - the Italians authentic and classier alternative to the Irish pubs in the city, and fortunately for residents and visitors, there are many to choose from. Wine bars are a great place to eat a light (read: small portion sizes) lunch or dinner and avoid the antica tourist oriented restaurants. Basta Pasta! Ethnic food in Rome. Not much food diversity in Rome, but its getting a bit better. Weve listed a few suggestions. Supermarket/local food market:! We denitely recommend that you try at least a couple of our restaurant recommendations, but at our Clover and Acacia guest rooms there are self-catering kitchen facilities and getting picnic-style trimmings will cut down on food costs and still allow for a great food experience if you know how to shop. Heres a video from our information series that shows how easy

it is to go food shopping in Italy: http://www.vimeo.com/28262519

TERMINI
The Beehive Cafe - at The Beehive
Open for breakfast 7:30-10:30 every day, Saturday & Sunday brunch 11-1:00pm, Wed, Sat & Sun evening vegan buffet aperitivo 7:00-9:30pm, drinks and snacks every day, special evening events. Outdoor seating available. Cash only. 0644704553 We follow a vegetarian, sometimes vegan and mostly organic menu and try to be as creative as possible with the limited space and restrictions that we have. We decided to offer a breakfast that offer a healthier alternative to the local coffee bar. Our Saturday & Sunday brunches are a mix of sweet and savoury and every Wed, Sat and Sun evening we offer a vegan buffet aperitivo which at !8 for a plate of food and drink is a delicious and economical alternative if you are burnt out on pizza and pasta. All of our coffee and teas are fair trade. Please visit Gianluca, Aimee and Francesco in the cafe downstairs.

Meid in Nepols - Via Varese, 54 (restaurant & pizzeria)

Open for lunch and dinner, closed Sundays. 06.44704131 www.meidinnepols.com A very welcome addition in our neighborhood with Neapolitan avor just 2 blocks from The Beehive. Great atmosphere, modern design and welcoming, attentive service. We have had many happy guests eat here and even eat there more than once during their stay. Just around the corner from the main entrance there is no pizza by the slice available as well as what some consider the best suppli and crochette di patate in Rome.

Trattoria del Omo, via Vicenza, 18 (restaurant)

Open for lunch and dinner, closed Sundays. No frills, family run trattoria with typical Roman cuisine - pasta carbonara, amatriciana and ragu dishes.

Trimani - Via Cernaia, 37B (wine bar) and via Goito, 20 (wine shop)
Open lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Credit cards accepted. 06.4469630 Outstanding and extensive selection of local and regional wines. One of the oldest and nest wine shops in Rome. Their wine bar next door has ne food choices including canaps, swordsh with oranges and camembert stuffed with black trufes.

Africa - via Gaeta, 26 (ethnic)

Open for lunch & dinner. Credit cards accepted. 06.4941077 Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine in a quiet side street not too far from The Beehive and the train station. Its a meat eaters haven although there are some veggie dishes to choose from and its the custom to eat with your hands. There is a apparently a much better reviewed Ethiopian restaurant called Mesob located at via Prenestina , but a bit of a haul from The Beehive.

Gaian - via dei Mille, 18 (ethnic)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sundays. 06. 44360160 I have to admit that we have yet to eat here, but only because there are very few veggie options. However, a friend who is a Roman foodie recommends it. Since it's very close to The Beehive, I thought I should mention it for those of you who would like to try and from what I've read it is very authentic.

Pizzeria del Secolo - Via Palestro, 62 (pizza al taglio)

Open every day for lunch & dinner. Cash only. 06.4457606 A very good pizza by the slice near The Beehive. Some counter space, but not really anywhere to eat. Ask for take away (portare via) if you want to just eat while you walk. Gets really crowded around lunchtime with all the ofce workers and students in the area.

80 Fame - via dei Mille, 16 (pizza al taglio)

Open every day for lunch & dinner. Cash only A play on words in the title of this pizza by the slice place - if you pronounce it in Italian it means "I'm very hungry." Just down the street from The Beehive, run by the same owners as Pizzeria del Secolo above, they offer delicious thin and crispy take away pizza.

VyTa Bar - Termini train station (coffee bar)

Open daily If you are in a rush in the morning and just want to grab a pastry and coffee, you might try this bar located just inside Termini train station from The Beehive side. For lunch, there are salads and sandwiches made with organic bread and pizza from the famous and delicious Roscioli bakery. In addition, there are traditional Roman pastries as well as brownies, mufns, and cookies from local bakery Mondo di Laura.

Bar Fondi - corner of via Milazzo & via Magenta (coffee bar)
Closed Sundays Simple, but delicious pastries (if you like cherries, try the cornetto with crema & visciola, a type of sour cherry) and cappuccino served with speed and efciency.

Caffe Parana/Caffetteria Fagi - Piazza dei Cinquecento, 40 (coffee bar)

In what would seem like a bit of a wasteland underneath the porticos near Termini Train station, this sleek and shiny cafe serves fair trade organic coffee.

Come il Latte - via Silvio Spaventa, 24 (gelateria)

The ice cream truly is amazing and it's only a 10 minute walk away from The Beehive! Well worth the stroll over and they are generous with their portions. There are two running faucets - one with dark chocolate and one with white chocolate. You have a choice of either your cone being lled with either and a cookie/biscuit being dipped in it to top your cone or cup. Delicious!

CONAD and DESPAR- Termini Train Station (supermarket)

Inside Termini, downstairs (Conad) and upstairs on the way to Track 1 (Despar), is a large grocery store open all day, every day. Convenient, but very expensive and the quality isnt anywhere as good as the fresh fruit and vegetables from Mercato Esquilino.

BASILICA SANTA MARIA MAGGIORE

Trattoria Monti - Via San Vito, 13a (restaurant)
Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sunday dinner and all day Monday. Credit cards accepted. 06.4466573 One of Steve and Lindas favorite restaurants. Specializing in cuisine from the Le Marche region in Italy. Because of their popularity now in various guidebooks, you might nd more foreigners than Italians here, but unlike other places this has happened to this hasnt compromised the quality and everything is simply delicious. Excellent wine selection. Family-owned and operated and the service is very friendly and professional. They are always busy so reservations are absolutely necessary for both lunch and dinner.

Pizzeria Rustica Europa - Via Meruluna, 28A (pizza al taglio)

Closed Sunday. Cash only. 06.4464025 Great local pizza by the slice place. Everything from the usual margherita (tomato sauce & mozzarella) to olives, peppers or shrimp to nutella. Dont mistake it with the other Pizza Rustica across the street which we have dubbed Pizza Grease.

Roscioli - via Buonarroti, 48 (tavola calda, bakery)

Open Monday-Saturday, 07:30 - 8pm This is the cousin of the famous Roscioli bakery and wine shop/restaurant near Campo dei Fiori, but without the attitude & pretension and much more friendliness. This excellent tavola calda makes for an affordable lunch. There are a few tables or get your things to go and have a picnic in the nearby Piazza Vittorio. The pizza bianca (plain or you can ask for it to be lled with cheese or prosciutto or mortadella) is one of the best in Rome. And the suppli (Roman specialty: rice cooked in tomato sauce, then rolled up into balls with a bit of mozzarella inside, then breaded and fried) are absolutely delicious.

Kathmandu Fast Food - via Buonarroti, 38 (ethnic)

Cheap and cheerful. This recently expanded tavola calda is one of the best deals in town. A plate lled with naan bread, rice and vegetables (or add a meat curry of the day) will set you back !5. Many vegetarian options available.

Shawerma Station - Via Merulana, 271 (ethnic)

Open for lunch & dinner. Cash only. 06.4881216 If youre tired of Italian food, heres an inexpensive and tasty alternative. Shawerma, hummus, falafel,

couscous, and other middle eastern goodies are served cafeteria style or to go in this generic looking cafeteria style place.

Himalayas Kashmir - Via Principe Amedeo, 325-327 (ethnic)

Open for lunch & dinner. Credit cards accepted. Not in the most picturesque neighborhood, but the upside is that its one of the better Indian restaurants in the city. Excellent and varied selection from northern Indian and southern Pakistan. You can either order a la carte or the set menu. Very affordable.

Pasticerria Regoli - via dello Statuto, 60 (pastry shop)

Closed Tuesday A small pastry shop with decadent creamy treats. The Bavarese is essentially 2 thin wisps of pastry with a slab of sweetened whipped cream in the middle. They are are known for their tarts lled with cream and topped with tiny, sweet strawberries called fragoline.

Panella - Via Merulana, 54 (bakery & bar)

Open Monday-Saturday 08:00-midnight. Sunday and holidays 08:30-4pm. Credit cards accepted. Please note that prices here are high in comparison to other bakery/bars. www.panella-artedelpane.it Combination bakery, coffee bar and food market. A place for a light breakfast, light lunch or mid afternoon snack. Try their fagottini integrale (whole wheat pastries with raspberry, strawberry or blueberry lling) or a frolle napoletana with ricotta and visciola (sour cherry) in it. Gourmet bakery that has a bit of everything - pizza by the slice, crepes, pastries, lots of fresh bread and chocolates. Also a bar where you can order coffee as well as different kinds of alcoholic and non-alcoholic punch or a frullatto (a fruit smoothie). After years of shoulder to shoulder cappuccino sipping, they nally have better indoor seating and loads of outdoor seating. There is a small specialty grocery in the back. Beehive tip: If you are feeling indulgent ask for crema with your coffee or cappuccino and the barrista will add a delicious, generous scoop of zabagione.

Mercato Esquilino - Via Principe Amedeo & Via Ricasoli (food market)
Closed afternoons and all day Sunday. After its many decades long former outdoor location at Piazza Vittorio it is now the largest covered market in Rome. Excellent for inexpensive, but great quality produce. Many stalls also have non-Italian food stuffs - spices, basmati rice, couscous, Indian, Mexican, American and Chinese. But watch your bag/wallet! If you go early, you can avoid the crush.

SMA - Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, 3 (supermarket)

Another large supermarket.

COLOSSEUM
Hostaria Isidoro - Via San Giovanni in Laterano, 59/61/63 (restaurant)
Open for lunch & dinner except Saturday lunch. Credit cards accepted. 06.7008266 www.hostariaisidoro.com Fernanda, the vivacious hostess, adds to the congenial and welcoming atmosphere. Ask for the house special - the assaggini (2 person minimum) and you will be brought plate after plate of small pasta portions until youre ready to burst or say Basta! (Enough!). Bring a big appetite. The assaggini has been a consistent favorite with Beehive guests.

Taverna dei Quaranta - Via Claudia, 24 (restaurant)

Open every day for lunch & dinner. Outdoor seating available. Credit cards accepted. 06.7000550 www.tavernadeiquaranta.com Roman restaurant with several non-traditional menu items. Good appetisers, pastas and second courses. Service can be slow so come here if you dont mind taking your time to enjoy the local Roman ambiance.

Caf Caf - Via dei S. S. Quattro, 44 (restaurant)

Monday-Saturday 10:30-1:30pm. Sunday Italian style brunch from 12:00-4pm. Outdoor seating available. Credit cards accepted. 06.7008743 Great, cozy atmosphere with lots of drinks to choose from - both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Fruit shakes (frullati) made with soy milk, honey and assorted fruit are also a yummy alternative. Lunch time salads and other light alternatives. Extensive tea list and jazzy music. They also serve a Sunday brunch with yogurt, granola, cereal, toast, pastries and other assorted breakfast goodies.

Luzzi Trattoria & Pizzeria- Via Celimontana, 1 (pizzeria)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Wednesday. Credit cards accepted. 06.7096332 Inexpensive and good Roman pizza in this neighborhood trattoria very popular with both tourists and the locals. Friendly & energetic staff and lively atmosphere.

Antica Gelateria de Matteis - Via Celimontana, 34 (gelateria)

Open daily. Closed Nov-Feb. Tel. 3391561722 www.antica-gelateria-dematteis.it Various selection of heat-quenching granitas. In the summer try the lemon avor. Lots of excellent gelato avors including the zabaione which is made with marsala wine and has a smooth, sweet custard avor. They also offer soy based gelato.

FONTANA DI TREVI (TREVI FOUNTAIN)

LArchetto Via dell Archetto, 26 (restaurant)
Open for every day for lunch & dinner. Credit cards accepted, except on Sunday 06.6789064 Restaurant where you can choose from over 100 different types of pasta. Nothing extraordinary, but prices are good. Avoid the watered-down house wine.

Nan Via della Panetteria, 37 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Monday. Credit cards accepted. 06.69190750 www.nanaviniecucina.it Southern Italian restaurant with specialty items from the Calabria, Sicilia and Puglia regions. Try their appetizer sampler which includes a southern wine and a plate of bruschette and antipasti.

Il Chianti Via del Lavatore, 81/82 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sunday. Credit cards accepted. 06.6787550 www.vineriailchianti.com Mother and two daughters all work together to make an excellent place enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for their large bread baskets with homemade foccacia and fresh-made pasta.

Sacro & Profano Via dei Maroniti, 29 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner.Closed Mondays. Credit cards accepted. 06.6791836 www.ristorantesacroeprofano.it Located on the former premises of an 11th century church (and perhaps, hence, the name), this restaurant specializes in southern Italian food especially the region of Calabria including salami and cheese from that area. Try the antipasto plate, Golosita Calabresi.

Angelina - via Poli, 27 (bar/cafe & restaurant)

Open Monday-Sunday, 08:00 to 22:00 (10:00pm) - www.ristoranteangelina.com/en/angelina-in-trevi.html A very pretty spot between the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Perfect for a quick sandwich on the run or sit down and have a salad or something sweet. Listed by the Roman farmers market association as a zero kilometer restaurant.

Il Gelato di San Crispino - Via della Panetteria, 42 (gelateria)

Open daily, sometimes closed Tuesday in winter months. www.ilgelatodisancrispino.it I've put it here because many have read so much about it they feel they must visit, but there are so many much better options around now. No cones served here since according to the owners it interferes with the purity of the product. It does have its down sides though: pricey, always crowded and meager scoops.

PIAZZA DI SPAGNA (SPANISH STEPS)

Gina Via di San Sebastionello, 7/a (restaurant)
Open every day for lunch only. Credit cards accepted. 06.6780251 Groovy little caf/bar with lots of colorful, modern art. A great place to take a book or newspaper and wile away a couple of hours. They have an extensive menu from breakfast treats to pastas and a range of fresh salads to satisfy every craving. They also make picnic baskets for those who want to take away some yummy treats and escape to nearby Villa Borghese. A good wine list is on hand.

Osteria Margutta Via Margutta, 82 (restaurant)

Open for lunch and dinner, reservations required on Fri & Sat. Outdoor seating available, must be requested when reserving. Closed Sunday. Credit cards accepted. 06.3231025 Beautiful, funky little restaurant located on this famous art gallery row and home of artists and other creative types (Italian lm director Federico Fellini lived on this street.) A bit pricey, but excellent food and wine. A nice romantic splurge for couples. When reserving, make sure you request outdoor seating if you want it.

Babette Via Margutta, 1 (restaurant)

Open for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday dinner and Monday lunch. 06.3211559 www.babetteristorante.it It looks like a Ladies Who Lunch spot, but for those in the know it is the bargain buffet in this area. TuesdayFriday for lunch it is !15 for soup and a plate of hot and cold salads, couscous, pasta, etc. includes water. There is a very pretty courtyard in nice weather and a cozy dining room on rainy ones. Tables ll up fast so best to call ahead. Dinner is expensive and not as good as the lunch buffet.

Pasticio Via della Croce, 8 (pasta shop and secret lunch spot)
Open 10:00-19:00 (7pm). Open for lunch at 1:00pm sharp. Closed Sunday. A pasta shop and factory most of the day, at 1:00 it transforms into one of the best secret lunch nds in Rome. Get there at about 5 minutes before 1pm and grab a spot inthis tiny shop lled with elegantly suited locals. For !4 you get a plastic plate to ll with whatever the kitchen cooked up that day. That bargain price includes a cup of wine you pour from jugs of red and white on the front counter and water.

Antico Caff Greco - Via Condotti, 86 (bar)

Open daily. 06.6791700 www.anticocaffegreco.eu This bar established in the 1700s makes it one of the oldest coffee shops in the world. Very lush interior, red velvet seats and dark wood with historic photos of famous people. Be forewarned - very pricey!

CAMPO DEI FIORI

Ristorante der Pallaro Largo del Pallaro, 15 (restaurant)
Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Monday. Reservations recommended. Cash only, set menu. 06.68801488. www.trattoriaderpallaro.com Very similar to the restaurant Da Ada & Alfredo near Castel Sant Angelo, in that you eat what they bring you - no menu. Owned and run by the energetic Paola and Giovanni, you get a lot of homey food to eat in an equally warm and hospitable environment.

Trattoria Moderna Vicolo dei Chiodaroli, 16 (restaurant)

Small outdoor seating available. Credit cards accepted. 06.68803423. Not your typical antica trattoria. Beautiful modern, yet cosy interior. Interesting and diverse menu - a quiet escape, but still close to the livelier Campo dei Fiori.

Ditirambo Piazza della Cancelleria, 74 (restaurant)

Open Monday 19:30/7:30pm-23:30/11:30pm and Tuesday-Sunday 13:00/1pm-15:00/3pm and again 19:30/7:30-23:30/11:30pm 06.6871626 www.ristoranteditirambo.it Great vegetarian selection (but not a strictly veggie restaurant) with interesting, creative and diverse menu.

Grappolo dOro Zampan Piazza della Cancelleria, 80/84 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Thursday lunch. Credit cards accepted. 06.6897080 Both a pizzeria and full-service restaurant. Much of the ingredients such as cheeses, wine, etc. come from specialty producers in the region of origin. Very good pizzas, gnocchi and salads. Service is prompt, efcient and friendly.

Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbera Largo dei Librari, 88 (restaurant)

Open Monday-Saturday 18:00/6pm-22:30/10:30pm Closed Sunday and August. No credit cards. 06.6864018 Nothing fancy here. The specialty here is Roman-style deep fried salt cod. You can head to the back and get a piece to go or sit down and make a meal of it with plates of fried zucchini, simple beans and salad and cold beer. In winter make sure to order a plate of crunchy, lemon, anchovy dressed puntarelle (a type of winter vegetable).

Open Baladin - via degli Specchi, 6 (restaurant/gastro-pub)

Open daily 12:00-02:00am Credit cards accepted. 06.6838989 www.openbaladin.com If youre looking for Italian craft beer and hamburgers - this is what youll nd here in abundance. Dont forget to order a few cones of freshly made potato chips/crisps with homemade ketchup. Hamburger buns are freshly made from the famous Bonci Bakery. If youre going to get a hamburger and a beer while in Rome, this is the place to do it. They also make veggie burgers.

The Perfect Bun - Largo Torre Argentina , 62 (cafe)

Open Monday-Friday 13:00/1pm-02:00am. Open Saturday 18:00/6pm-02:00. Open Sunday 11:30-02:00am Credit cards accepted. 06.4203051 www.theperfectbun.it Another spot for hamburger, fries and other assorted American-style bellybusters.

LAngolo Divino Via dei Balestrari, 12 (wine bar)

Closed Sunday lunch and Monday lunch. Credit cards accepted. 066864413 Simple and quiet, this is a nice place to get away from the crowds around Camp dei Fiori and enjoy an afternoon/evening snack of excellent cheese & salumi with a glass of wine.

i Dolci di Nonna Vicenza - Via Arco del Monte, 98 (pastry shop)

Sicilian sweet treats. Stop here for your cannoli x.

Bar Giulia/Caffe Peru Via Giulia, 84 (bar)

Closed Sunday. Innocuous and tiny bar located on the very beautiful Via Giulia. cappuccinos and caffe lattes made by these coffee masters. Friendly relaxed owners and excellent

JEWISH GHETTO
Ba' Ghetto Milky - via del Portico d'Ottavia, 2A (restaurant)
Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Friday dinner & Saturday lunch. 06.68300077 Restaurants in this area are not cheap, but this kosher restaurant is a notch above the rest and offers some delicious Roman Jewish cuisine including the famous "carcio alla giudia" which are fried whole artichokes.

Biblioth - Via Celsa, 4/5 (ethnic)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sunday. 06.6781427 Owned by an American/Italian couple, Trina and Enzo - this out of the way spot has some of Rome's best Indian food. A rarity in Rome especially for an ethnic restaurant - they use all organic ingredients. Be sure to save room for their absolutely delicious ayurvedic tea and Trina's American style tasty desserts.

Bar Taruga - Piazza Mattei, 9 (wine bar)

Closed Monday. In the same piazza as one of our favorite fountains (Fontana delle Tartarughe - the Turtle Fountain). A little pricey, but cushy eclectic couches and chairs make this a great place to sit and chat in the evening over a glass of Prosecco (Venetian champagne). Grumpy bar guy may let you tickle the ivories on the piano if youre beyond the chopsticks stage.

Pane, Vino e San Daniele - Piazza Mattei, 16 (wine bar)

Closed Sunday dinner. Closed 2 weeks in August. Credit cards accepted. 06.6877147 Pub/wine bar with soups, salads, polenta and pastas and known for its San Daniele prosciutto. In the same piazza as Bar Taruga at the Turtle Fountain.

Da Gino e Antonio- Piazza Costaguti, 15 (wine bar/cafe)

Open Tuesday-Saturday lunch and dinner. Open Monday lunch only. Credit cards accepted. 06.68309420 www.ginoeantonio.it Tucked into a corner of a small piazza in the Ghetto this is a perfect spot to escape the heat and the crowds. Enjoy a light meal of cold cured sh or meats. Plates of cheese, veggies and daily specials are all good choices.

Mondo di Laura - via della Reginella, 18b (cookie/biscuit shop)

Open Monday-Thursday 8:30-19:30/7:30pm, Friday 8:30-15:30/3:30pm, Sunday 9:00-19:30/7:30pm. Closed Saturday. www.mondodilaura.com Want just a little something sweet? Or a great gift to take back home? Stop in this adorable shop and select from Lauras delicious assortment in beautifully arranged packages. Cookies/biscuits are made with kosher, fair trade and slow food approved ingredients. Some with gluten free and vegan options. My personal favorite is the Pepita - chocolate with pieces of dark chocolate and Himalayan salt.

PANTHEON
LEau Vive Via Monterone, 85 (restaurant)
Closed Sunday and August. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations required. Credit cards accepted. 06.68802101 or 06.68801095 Its not Italian food, but thought it should be mentioned here because it is such an interesting experience. Restaurant run in a convent by an order of French nuns. The nuns do all the cooking, serving and singing! You will be sung to throughout the meal. On the pricey side, but all proceeds go to charity. An interesting way to spend an evening (and build up karma!) while eating an enjoyable meal.

Riccioli Caf Via delle Coppelle, 13 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sunday. Outdoor seating available. Credit cards accepted. 06.68210313 www.ricciolicafe.com Famous young Roman chef, Riccioli, makes this restaurant a must for those who want seafood and sushi. Staff are professional and friendly.

Maccheroni Piazza delle Coppelle, 44!(restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Credit cards accepted. 06.68307895 www.ristorantemaccheroni.com Boisterous, convivial trattoria north of the Pantheon makes for a fun evening out. Attracts a young clientele, but the menu sticks to traditional Roman basics such as pasta al pomodoro or rigatoni alla gricia (pasta with bacon, sheeps milk cheese and black pepper). Reservations recommended for dinner.

Cremeria Monteforte - Via della Rotonda, 22 (gelateria)

Closed Monday. 06.6867720 Not a huge selection, but quite a good, family-run gelateria that is a step away from the madding crowd of the Pantheon. Some non-dairy option available.

Fiocco di Neve Via del Pantheon, 51 (gelateria)

Open every day. 06.6786025 Another hole in the wall gelateria with an interesting selection and generous scoops. Very well-made gelato. Flavors such as orange chocolate and their mint chocolate chip are very good. Their specialty is Zabaione which is a custard and marsala wine avor. Need an afternoon pick-up? Order one of our favorites - an affogato - a shot of espresso poured over a scoop of crema or zabagione gelato and topped with panna (whipped cream). There are soy gelato options available here.

Buccianti - Via Giustiniani, 18A and Piazza Cavour, 18A (gelateria)

Open daily. 06.6896670 (Giustiniani), 06.97252462 (Cavour) Famous for their cinnamon gelato. ! They make crepes in the winter. selection. They also have individual tiramisu servings. Gluten free avors are part of their

i Dolci di Nonna Vicenza - Piazza Montecitorio, 116 (pastry shop)

Sicilian sweet treats. Stop here for your cannoli x.

Il Caff SantEustachio - Piazza SantEustachio, 82 and Tazza d Oro, via degli Orfani, 84 (bar)
Open daily. 06.68802048 www.santeustachioilcaffe.it Il Caffe Sant/Eustachio was established in the 1940s and both il Sant'Eustachio and Tazza d'Oro are both regarded as some of the best coffee in Rome.

Pascucci - Via di Torre Argentina, 20 (bar)

About 5-10 minutes walk away from the!Pantheon, closer to the ruins at Largo Torre Argentina, this bar would be nothing special if it werent for the refreshing fruit smoothies and milkshakes they make on top of the usual bar fare. Stop here on a hot day for a refreshing fruity concoction.

Salotto 42 Piazza di Pietra, 42 (wine bar)

Closed Monday. Reservations recommended for dinner 06.6785804. One of the more simple, beautiful and understated piazzas in Rome, home of Hadrians Temple and now this stylish cafe. Owned by an Italian & Swedish couple, they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner primarily vegetarian. Homemade Swedish desserts and smoothies. In the evening, it becomes a relaxing place to meet for drinks great music play lists and interesting selection of art/photography books.

PIAZZA NAVONA / CASTEL ST. ANGELO

Da Alfredo & Ada - Via dei Banchi Nuovi, 14 (restaurant)
Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Saturday, Sunday & holidays. Reservations recommended, especially for dinner. Cash only, set menu. 06.6878842 One of the more unusual places in Rome for lunch or dinner. Run by Ada with the help of a few other elderly women, its like eating at Grandmas! No menu, you just eat whatever they bring you which is usually a small pasta dish and then a main meat & vegetable course. White wine of their own production from their vineyard in the hills outside of Rome (Castelli Romani). Afterwards, one of them (usually Ada) comes round with a bag of cookies for dessert and pinches your cheek. Denitely an experience to write home about.

Da Tonino Via del Governo Vecchio, 18/19 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sunday. Cash only. Tel. 3335870779 No frills restaurant - just basic, home-style Roman cooking. If you want a plate of pasta and some local atmosphere this is a good place to get it in the historic center without breaking the bank.

Bar Via del Governo Vecchio, 122

A friendly, no frills, local spot. There are a few tables inside and out.

Pasquino Piazza Pasquino, 1 (restaurant)

Open every day for lunch & dinner., 12:00-midnight, no-stop. Credit cards accepted. 06.6893043 Piazza Pasquino is the location of one of several talking statues left in Rome. They were called talking statues because at night when the city slept, anonymous political and social commentary in the form of grafti and placards were painted or hung on the statue comments which were unpopular with the papal rulers of the time. The tradition still continues. Pasquino the restaurant is a typical Roman restaurant with homemade pastas and desserts. They also serve Roman-style pizza. House specialty is tonnarelli con le ostriche (pasta with oysters not ostrich!).

Lo Zozzone Via del Teatro Pace, 32 (pizza al taglio)

Open Monday-Friday 10:00-22:00/10pm. Open Saturday 10:00-02:30 . Open Sunday 11:00-16:00/4:00pm. Cash only. 06.68808575 Build your own pizza/sandwich using their wonderful pizza bianca (white pizza) as a base then ll it in with their numerous toppings and spreads including cold meats, tuna, fresh vegetables, vegetables in oil, cheese, etc. They also have sweet llings on offer such as chocolate & ricotta. Very popular at lunch time.

Pizzeria da Baffetto - Via del Governo Vecchio, 114 (pizzeria)

Open every day evenings only. Cash only. 06.6861617 Very popular touristed pizzeria. You will probably have to wait outside for a while before a table opens up. Noisy, but fun. Large portion sizes, Roman style. Great location.

Pizzeria La Montecarlo - Vicolo Savelli, 11A-12-13 (pizzeria)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Monday. Cash only. 06.6861877 Great, cheap Roman style pizza and pastas. One of the few places to go for a sit-down pizza in the afternoon.

Thien Kim - Via Giulia, 201 (ethnic)

Open for dinner. Closed Sunday. Closed 2 weeks in August. Credit cards accepted. 06.68307832 Vietnamese restaurant at one end of the most beautiful streets in Rome. Expensive.

La Deliziosa - vicolo Savelli, 50 (pastry shop)

Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00-20:00/8:00pm 06.68803155 Very good pastry shop, but just for take away. There is only one tiny table in the back.

Bar Tre Scalini - Piazza Navona, 30-35 (bar/gelateria)

Open daily. 06.6879148 Famous for its homemade tartufo (a type of chocolate) ice cream. Decadent and expensive (if you sit outside), but treat yourself anyway and get a table with a view of Romes most famous piazzas.

Caff della Pace Via della Pace, 3-7 (bar)

Closed Monday. 06.6861216 Great people watching in the mornings if you can sit outside. See if you can pick out who might be the latest Italian soap opera sensation or model. Beautiful dark wood interior, marble tabletops and antique cash register. Pasta and buffet items served throughout the day.

Etabli vicolo delle Vacche, 9 (wine bar)

Open lunch, aperitivo and dinner. Sundays for brunch only from 12:30-3:30. Credit cards accepted. 06.97616694 Run by 2 brothers, gorgeous restaurant and wine bar with a southern French vibe. Great wine selection and relaxed, chic atmosphere. An excellent place for a pre-dinner glass of wine.

Cul de Sac Piazza Pasquino, 73 (wine bar)

Open every day except major holidays. Credit cards accepted. Outside seating available. 06.68801094 Very popular wine bar/restaurant and with good reason. Lots of great, inexpensive wines and good selection of appetizers, salads and desserts.

Mim & Coc Via del Governo Vecchio, 72 (wine bar)

Open daily. Credit cards accepted. Outside seating available. 06.68210845 Salads, crepes, soups, rice and pasta dishes are just a few of the things to choose from and they specialize in coffee and tea as much as they do wine. Andrea, the owner, is genuinely friendly towards tourists (a rarity in the jaded Piazza Navona area) and welcomes opportunities to speak English. Very easy going atmosphere no need to rush here.

il Piccolo Via del Governo Vecchio, 74/75 (wine bar)

Open every day 12:00-02:00. Credit cards accepted. 06.68801746 Small and cozy spot for a quick glass of wine or a leisurely after dinner drink. They also serve lunch. At Christmas-time, they serve mulled wine and at other times of the year they have a large bowl of prosecco punch lled with fruit.

TRASTEVERE
Suggestions for Trastevere provided by our friend, Tiffany Parks. Her blog which has a lot of inf or m a t ion a bout R om e a r t e x hibit s a nd r e v ie ws c a n be f ound a t ht t p: // thepinesofrome.blogspot.it/ Da Gildo Via della Scala, 31 (restaurant)
Closed Thursday. 06.5800733 A traditional and family-run osteria, here you can sample some of the classic staples of Roman cuisine, such as, bucatini allamatriciana, carbonara, carcio alla guidia or gnocchi alla romana at exceptional prices. A cozy atmosphere with funky artwork and a friendly, welcoming staff make it all the more alluring.

Taverna Trilussa Via Politeama, 23 (restaurant)

Open daily. 06.5818918 Named for the inimitable 20th-century Roman poet of the same name, this is the ideal spot for an elegant and decadent meal. Whether you sit indoors or out, the setting is romantic and unforgettable. Dont miss the awardwinning Ravioli Mimosa, which, like all their pastas, is served up in the pan its cooked in. The menu boasts several pages of gourmet cheeses, with an entire page dedicated to different types of mozzarella! Reservations recommended, especially if you want to sit outside.

Spirito di Vino Via dei Genovesi, 31 (restaurant)

Closed Sunday. 06.5896689 Here you will nd dishes that take an innovative twist on traditional Roman cuisine in an unforgettable setting. Although the interior seems modern, the restaurant is in fact housed in a 10th-century Roman synagogue (if you look closely you can see Hebrew letters etched onto the columns of the upper windows from outside). The lower level is even older: the wait staff will proudly lead you downstairs to take a peek at the ancient wine cellar that predates the Colosseum! In the 1800s, an ancient Roman sculpture, the Apoxomenos, was found here and is now housed in the Vatican Museums.

Isole di Sicilia Via Garibaldi, 68/69 (restaurant)

Closed Monday. 06.58334212 As you walk into this charming restaurant, youll feel as if youve landed in a Sicilian shing village. Their array of sumptuous seafood specialties will make your mouth water, and be sure to start your meal by choosing from the vast antipasto spread, complete with Sicilian favorites such as caponata and eggplant rolls.

Pizzeria Dar Poeta - Vicolo del Bologna, 45 (pizzeria)

Open daily. 06.5880516 Ifoure looking for a perfect medium between Roman (thin crust) and Neapolitan (thick crust) style pizza, this is the place for you. Bufala and super-bufala are favorites for cheese-lovers, but with over 20 different pizzas, there is something delicious for everyone. Come earlyespecially if you prefer to sit outsideas reservations are not taken, and it can take up to an hour to get a table after 8pm on busy nights.

Pizzeria San Calisto - Piazza San Calisto 9a (pizzeria)

Closed Sunday 06.5818256. With thin-crusted pizzas so big they dont t on a plate and freshly fried suppl (mozzarella and tomato rice balls) that will make your knees weak, this boisterous pizzeria certainly wont send you home hungry. If you dont see what you want on the menu, ask and the friendly staff will do their best to accommodate you.

In Vino Veritas Via Garibaldi, 2a (wine bar)

Open daily. 06.58332012 At this cozy and well-priced wine bar, you will nd a few rigorously selected labels and comfy couches where you can happily hole up for hours with a plate of salty snacks. Chessboards, board games and a mini-pool table make it the perfect place for an evening among friends.

Nylon Via Politeama, 9 (wine bar)

Closed Tuesday. 06.58340692 This hip bar is housed in a converted warehouse and offers a spectacular aperitivo: from about 7 to 9pm every night, for the price of a drink you can help yourself to a buffet of grilled vegetables, cured meats, salads, pasta dishes and more. Slip into the long leather booth, or sit on the street in an overstuffed armchair and watch Rome go by.

Bir & Fud Via Benedetta, 23 (wine bar)

Open daily. 06.5894016 Choose from more types of beer than you knew existed at this lively bar-restaurant. Bir & Fud has taken the model of an Italian enoteca, and converted into a place to sample the very best gourmet beer that Italy has to offer. Pizza and savory snacks are also on the menu.

Fior di Luna Via Lungaretta, 96 (gelateria)

Closed Monday. 06.64561314 Using only natural ingredients, the avors on offer at this unassuming little gelateria all correspond with the fresh fruits in season. Melon and peach are particularly delectable summer favorites, and their pistachio and unusual chocolate sorbet are not to be missed! They do not offer cones, so as to avoid contaminating their ice cream with articial ingredients.

i Dolci di Checca er Carattiere Via Benedetta, 10 (gelateria)

Open daily. 06.5800985 The perfect spot for a late night sugar hit, this caf and pasticceria offers an enticing array of sweets, such as fruit tarts, miniature pastries, Italian-style doughnuts, cornetti, cakes, pies andof coursegelato. Open every night until 1 am.

VATICAN / PRATI
Suggestions for the Vatican area provided by our friend, Gillian McGuire of Rome for Expats http://www.gillianslists.com/ Beehive tip: There is a decent and reasonably priced caf located in the Vatican Museums. VIA BORGO PIO (near St. Peters Basilica)
Dont miss a stroll down this picturesque street - stand at the Vatican end and look to the end of the street for two perfectly framed Roman umbrella pines. There are also a few good stops for a quick refreshment.

Panicio Arrigoni - via Borgo Pio, 125 (bakery/sandwiches)

Closed Sunday. Open Monday-Saturday, 7:00-14:00/2pm and 17:00/5pm-19:30/7:30pm Come here for sandwiches made by request. There are a few benches farther down the street just behind the fountain which according to a very chatty taxi driver who lives across the street from this fountain - is the very best water in all of Rome!

Delize de Borgo Via Borgo Pio, 142 (gelateria)

Good gelato on via Borgo Pio

Gran Caffe de Borgo Via Borgo Pio, 170 (bar/tavola calda)

Excellent for a morning cappuccino and breakfast pastries or an afternoon snack. economical tavola calda (buffet style lunch). At lunch there is an

OTHER OPTIONS IN VATICAN NEIGHBORHOOD

Da Cesare Via Crescenzio, 13 (restaurant)
Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Sunday dinner and 2 weeks in August. Credit cards accepted. 06.6861227 An old standby in the Vatican area and a slave to tradition. Classic sh and meat dishes, homemade pasta and thick Florentine steaks. Also an impressive array of meatless dishes and an extensive wine list.

Al Passetto di Borgo - Borgo Pia, 60/62 (restaurant)

Open for lunch & dinner. Closed Tuesday. Credit cards accepted. 06.6861227 www.alpassettodiborgo.it Another old stand-by - known for its Carbonara.

Mondo Arancini - Via Marcantonio Colonna, 38/40 (pizza al taglio)

Open daily 10:00-midnight www.mondoarancina.it Excellent and reasonably priced pizza by the slice an an amazing selection of arancini a Sicilian specialty rice balls made with yellow Arborio rice and assorted stufngs and then deep fried theyre a meal on their own or a great snack. They have other food offerings such as eggpant parmesan, lasagna, etc. You can get something to eat here at any time of the day. Standing tables only.

Del Frate Via degli Scipioni, 118 (wine bar)

Closed August. Credit cards accepted. 06.3236437 Three dozen wines available by the glass as well as a range of meat, sh and veggie dishes. Homemade chocolate fondue is their dessert specialty.

Il Simposio di Costantini Piazza Cavour, 16 (wine bar)

Open daily. 06.3203575 Classy wine bar with extensive wine list and an assortment of 80 cheeses as well as salads, antipasti, terrines and pates, vegetable dishes and several other inventive rst and second courses. The restaurant is expensive, but an early evening glass of wine and snacks at the bar are a good value.

La Cucaracha - Via Mocenigo, 10A (ethnic)

Open for dinner. 06.39746373 Mexican owned and authentic tasting Mexican food.

Buccianti - Piazza Cavour, 18A (gelateria)

Open daily. 06.97252462 Famous for their cinnamon gelato. ! They make crepes in the winter. selection. Gluten free avors are part of their

Old Bridge Gelateria Via Bastioni di Michelangelo, 5 (gelateria)

Open daily. 06.45599961 They dont skimp on the portion sizes in this very popular gelateria. In the summer months expect to line-up, but it will be well worth it. They make an excellent chocolate milkshake (frappe).

Gelarmony Via Marcantonio Colonna, 34 (gelateria)

Open daily. 06.3202395 Sicilian gelateria with many different avors including a spicy, peppery chocolate avor (pepperoncino) and a yummy cinnamon avor. Lemon granita is also excellent. A wide variety of soy gelato avors. If youre feeling particularly glutinous try the gelato stuffed cannelloni.

Sciascia Caffe Via Fabio Massimo, 80/A (coffee bar)

Closed Sunday. Open daily 7:00-20:00/8pm The prettiest cup of coffee in town in this decades old Roman coffee bar (the original bar started in 1919). Your very excellent cappuccino will be served in a thin porcelain cup and make sure to ask for a splash of dark chocolate. Take home a bag of expertly roasted beans. Very good gelato and chocolate selection.

ADDITIONAL PRATI/VATICAN SUGGESTIONS:

(the following suggestions are all conveniently located near the CIPRO metro stop on Line A/ Red line metro and close to the Vatican Museums) Pizzarium - Via della Meloria, 43 (pizza al taglio)
Open Monday-Saturday, 11:00-22:00/10:00pm Gabriele Bonci is the rock star of pizza in Rome these days. The pick of Anthony Bourdain and CNN and local Rome food bloggers, the pizza al taglio here is something else. With a slightly thicker crust it is made with special yeasts (one said to be almost 100 years old) and toppings you wont nd anywhere else. There are 2 benches outside and a few stand-up spots. There are Italian craft beers to choose from. Also for sale are a selection of the special ours used and small prodution olive oils and wine. Beehive Tip: the pizza here is A LOT more expensive than your average pizza al taglio and is very meat heavy - not loads of veggie options here. Double-check the prices before you order or state how much you would like to spend.

La Molisana - Via Cipro, 8b (tavola calda)

Closed Wednesday An excellent tavola calda with a few tables inside and out. Very good eggplant parmesan (parmigiana di melanzane), good selection of vegetables, pasta, roast chicken. For those of you who like lamb, they serve this on weekends.

Fabrica - Via G. Savonarola, 8 - (bar/cafe/restaurant)

Closed Monday. www.fabricadicalisto.com This is a cozy spot to escape a rainy day or the killer heat in the summer. A very good breafkast cappuccino or mid-morning or mid-afternoon crostata and tea break. At lunch, they have a small buffet or often soups and a few baked pastas or salads. Very good sandwiches and cake selection. There is usually interesting art on display.

Micci - Via Andrea Doria, 55 (restaurant)

Closed Monday. Open lunch: 12:30-15:00/3pm. Open dinner: 19:30/7:30pm-23:30/11:30pm Since the 1950s this restaurant has been serving traditional Roman cuisine. Good Roman style pasta and sh dishes. They also have pizza for dinner.

La Fiorentina - Via Andrea Doria, 22 (bar/restaurant)

Open daily. Bar opens at 7:30am, restaurant open 12:30-midnight. Friendly neighborhood bar and restaurant. This is a good morning spot for a quick cappuccino and cornetto. It has nice salads for lunch and an excellent early evening aperitivo. Lots of seating.

Paciotti - Via Marcantonio Bragadin, 51/53 (food shop)

Open Monday-Saturday, 7:30-20:30/8:30pm. Closed Thursday mornings, but open Thurdsay 13:00/1pm-20:30/8:30pm. Its always like a party in here! Have the friendly brothers make you a sandwich or make-up a selection of cheeses and/or meats for a picnic . Craft beers, sodas, great wine and grappa choices. Beehive Tip: there is small spot on Via Andrea Doria & Via Mocenigo a few blocks away witih a few benches.

La Tradizionale - Via Cipro, 8 (food shop)

www.latradizione.it Another good spot for picnic supplies, plates of cold prepared food items and one of the rare spots in town to nd cheddar cheese. Stock up for gifts to take home here, hard to nd pastas, olive oil and vinegars.

La Bonta del Pane - via Cipro, 8c (bakery)

Very good pizza al taglio, bread, cookies/biscuits, basic groceries.

Trionfale Market - via Andrea Doria (market)

Open Monday-Saturday, 7:00-14:00/2:00pm, Tuesdays & Thursdays open until 19:00/7:00pm A large, covered neighborhood market where you can nd fresh fruits and vegetables - good mozzarella cheese delivered daily. There are a few bakery stalls that have bread and ready made pasta dishes. In the summer, theres a watermelon stand across from the market where you can purchase refreshing pieces by the slice.

(the following suggestions are all conveniently located near the OTTAVIANO metro stop on Line A/Red line metro and close to St. Peters Square) FaBio - via Germanico, 43 (juice bar/sandwiches)
Open Monday-Friday 9:00-20:00/8pm. Open Saturday 9:00am-16:00/4pm Closed Sunday Our friend Tiffany Parks who made all the suggestions for the Trastevere neighborhood section has a sandwich here named after her! (Tiffany is a tour guide at the Vatican.) If youre looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to all the frozen food touristy restaurants near St. Peters, this is it. Lots of organic sandwiches, juices and smoothies. Lots of vegetarian and vegan options.

DueCento Gradi - Piazza Risorgimento, 3 (sandwich bar)

Open daily from 10:00-23:00/11pm www.duecentogradi.it Build your own sandwich with over 60 ingredients and you can create your own or choose one of their combinations. They also have good salads.

SPECIAL GELATO MENTIONS:

Come il Latte - via Silvio Spaventa, 24
The ice cream truly is amazing and it's only a 10 minute walk away from The Beehive! Well worth the stroll over and they are generous with their portions. There are two running faucets - one with dark chocolate and one with white chocolate. You have a choice of either your cone being lled with either and a cookie/biscuit being dipped in it to top your cone or cup. Delicious!

Gelateria dei Gracchi - Via dei Gracchi, 272 (Vatican) and viale Regina Margherita, 192 (Porta Pia)
Open daily. 06.3216668 (Gracchi), 06.85353508 (Regina Margherita) The owner used to build mandolins and now spends his days making some of the best gelato in Rome. They use only local ingredients and no articial avors or preservatives such as some of the best pistachio gelato made with Sicilian pistachios. Slow Food award winning gelato and you can taste why - light, creamy and delicious. This gelato is gluten free and they even offer gluten free cones by request.

Fatamorgana - Piazza degli Zingari (Monti), Via G. Bettolo, 7 (Prati/Vatican area), Via Lago di Lesina, 9/11 (Piazza Crati)
Open daily. 06.86391589 (Pz Crati location) Similar in style to the before-mentioned San Crispino gelateria, but Maria Agnese who owns and runs the shop is 10 times nicer. You wont nd attitude here, just genuine friendliness and someone who really cares about her product. Shell let you taste any avor and youll need her help deciphering the exotic titles: Cioccolato Kentucky an amazing chocolate gelato with a tobacco infusion. Dukkah cumin, sesame and coriander avor. There are several avors that focus on spices and herbs. Fruit avors include Mango & Lime, Apple & Cinnamon, and one made with pear, port and sambuca. Flavors are always changing. There are also the old favorites, chocolate, cream and pistachio. To top it off, all of their gelato is glutin free and made with all natural organic ingredients. A denite must do if you have the time and the inclination. At the Piazza Crati location, next door is Nemorense Park where you can take your gelato and wile away an hour enjoying a true taste of la dolce vita.

il Gelato di Claudio Torce - 2 locations: Piazza Monte dOro, 91/92 (near Via del Corso/Spanish Steps area) and Viale Aventino, 59 (Circo Massimo)
Open daily. Closed Mondays in winter. Claudio Torce is a true gelato artisan. Habanero pepper, gorgonzola, at least TEN different chocolate choices this is not your average gelato shop!

Neve di Latte - Via Luigi Poletti, 6 (Lungotevere Flaminio)

Open daily. Near the new MAXXI museum, this is some serious artisanal gelato. Biodynamic Alpine milk (and water!), specially produced eggs from Pisa, Tuscan chocolate, fair-trade sugar and vanilla. Its a very calm space to cool off on a hot afternoon.

Gelateria del Teatro - Via di San Simone, 70 (Jewish Ghetto)

(Piazza Navona), Lungotevere dei Vallati, 25

Open daily. Many interesting avor choices here. Refreshing lemon with basil, chocolate with Nero dAvola, pistachio nuts from Sicily, lavender and white peach. There are lots of milk free options as well and gluten free cones.

Grom - Via della Maddalena, 30A (Pantheon) and Piazza Navona, 1 and Via dei Giubbonari, 53 (Campo dei Fiori)
Open daily. www.grom.it Yes, this is a chain, there are three branches at the time of this update here in Rome alone. The avors change monthly and are all made from only natural, seasonal ingredients. In winter there are three different hot chocolates to try. Feeling indulgent? You can even add a scoop of gelato. They have gluten-free, vegan and soy options also.

Ciampini - Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, 29 (off of main shopping street, via del Corso)
Closed Sundays. Credit cards accepted. Very good gelato in a very pretty piazza. The maron glace is what the crowds are usually here for. One of the real treats are the tiny chocolate dipped cones you can order from the freezer cases.

Gelato Corona - Largo Arenula, 27 (Largo Torre Argentina)

Open daily - 11:00-21:00/9:00pm www.gelateriacorona.it Look for the sign saying Best Gelato in Rome. It is pretty good gelato, but they have a lot of competition for that title! The lime basil is refreshing on a hot day. Other interesting avors to try are celery and vin santo with biscotti chips. In winter, there are made to order nutella crepes.

PHONES, INTERNET, LAUNDRY

Phone centers are an inexpensive way to make international calls. There are many located throughout the city. International phone cards are for sale at The Beehive reception for a small fee or you can buy them at face value at newsstands and tobacco shops. Local calls or calls within Italy can be made for free through our courtesy phone. If you need to make a call while out and about, it will be necessary to buy a Telecom Italia phone card (carta telefonica Telecom), which you can purchase from newsstands or tobacco shops. Youll

need a card to use any of the public phones, if you can nd them, they are increasingly rare to nd in the city. Internet - The Beehive and Clover & Acacia offer free Internet access for our guests both with a desktop (slow but free) and free wi- if you have your own laptop or smartphone. Please note while we are happy to offer this service free of charge, we cannot guarantee that there will not be computer or internet provider problems. Laundromats - There are several in The Beehive neighborhood, but the closest are a few minutes walk away at Via Milazzo, 20/b and Flashnet at Via Varese, 33. For Clover & Acacia, theres one at Via Principe Amedeo, 116. We do not mind hand-laundry of undergarments, but please do not use our facilities to do major laundry and we do not allow laundry lines in the rooms.

MAIN SHOPPING STREETS

Below are some of the main shopping streets in the city. However, dont limit yourself to these streets. Excellent shopping can be found throughout Rome. Wander down narrow cobblestone side streets (around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Campo Dei Fiori) for small independent clothing & shoe boutiques as well as unique artisan handicrafts and jewelry. Some good streets in this regard are Via dell Boschetto, Via Banchi Nuovi, Via Campo Marzio, Via di Ripetta and Via dell Governo Vecchio. The Monti neighborhood also has some great one of a kind shopping. Beehive Tip: Check out all the saldo/saldi(sale) signs in the two months when shop owners can ofcially put a large amount of items on sale: January and July Via del Corso - trendy, crowded, but sales clerks generally speak English and bargains can be found. Via Cola di Rienzo (Vatican) - our favorite for conventional high street shopping - near the Vatican, not so
crowded and a lot of the same stores as Via del Corso without the attitude.

Via Nazionale (Piazza della Repubblica) - a noisy, smoggy street, and less pedestrian friendly but lots of
stores to choose from.

Via Condotti (Piazza di Spagna) - if you can afford anything on this street, we wonder why youre staying at
The Beehive! Great place to window shop and dream.

DEPARTMENT STORES
Zara - Via del Corso, 190 - this Spanish chain took over an Italian department store that was in this location
for years.

Upim - Via del Tritone, 172 (Trevi Fountain) - low to mid-range department store where you can buy
moderately priced clothing, toiletries, etc.

Oviesse - Piazza Vittorio Emanuele - low to mid-range store for inexpensive clothing. Especially handy if
the airline has lost your luggage.

MAS - Piazza Vittorio Emanuele - only if you are desperate or need a completely obscure item - they
seem to have everything, but not of the best quality - its almost like an archaeological site without the digging. Super cheap, crowded and always a mess, but an interesting place to wander around in and see some of the odd things they have for sale.

HOLISTIC ROME
ORGANIC MARKETS
In regards to holistic living, Rome has come a long way since we rst moved here in 1999. You can now nd yoga classes, vegetarian restaurants, and shops that sell all kinds of organic products. If you run into any other shops or restaurants that arent mentioned here - please let us know as we are always on the lookout. Canestro (3 locations)
via S. Francesco a Ripa, 106 (Trastevere) viale Gorizia, 51 (Trieste) via Luca della Robbia, 12 (Testaccio)

il Salice
via Reggio Emilia, 61/a (Trieste)

Biomens
viale delle Milizie, 7a "Prati/Vatican/Ottaviano metro stop)

Celiachiamo (gluten free grocery store)

via Giulio Venticinque, 32/34"directly in front of Cipro metro stop - Prati/Vatican)

Solo Natura
via Emanuele Filiberto, 128 (Piazza Vittorio/Manzoni metro)

LAlbero del Pane

via Santa Maria del Pianto, 19/20 (Jewish Ghetto)

Citta dell Altra Economia (this is a large fair trade complex that has an organic grocery store, fair trade
retail shop, bar and restaurant) Largo Dino Frisullo inside the former city slaughterhouses, also where the new MACRO is located (Testaccio)

il Farmers Market della Capitale - Via San Teodoro, 74 (Circo Massimo)

Open Saturday 9:00-18:00/6pm and Sunday 9:00-16:00/4:00pm Romes weekend farmers market where you can be sure to nd the best produce and other food goods from the Lazio region.

ORGANIC SKIN & HEALTH CARE PRODUCTS

LOfcina Naturale - Via della Reginella, 3 (Jewish Ghetto), Via dei Coronari, 190 (Piazza Navona
THE best erboristeria in Rome with excellent selection of all natural body care products including excellent Italian organic brands such as Biofcina Toscana, Lakshmi and Ofcinali di Montauto (OM).

ORGANIC FARM with farm shop, Saturday and Sunday lunches, animals and nature walk (car necessary to reach)
Agricoltura Nuova Cooperativa
via Valle di Perna, 315 (just south of EUR)

ORGANIC CLOTHING & SHOES

Eco Wear (standard cotton, hemp clothing)
via del Vantaggio, 26 (Piazza del Popolo)

Dimensione Natura (clothes & shoes)

via dei Falegnami, 66/a (Jewish Ghetto)

The Natural Look (Birkenstocks in many styles, colors, designs)

via del Vantaggio, 21 E/F (Piazza del Popolo)

Angelo di Nepi (clothes & shoes)

via dei Giubbonari (Campo dei Fiori) via del Babuino, 147 (Piazza del Popolo) via Frattina, 2 (Spanish Steps)

Croce Franco (shoes, El Naturalista, Birkenstock, Campers and others)

Piazza Madonna dei Monti, 9 (Monti)

VEGETARIAN AND/OR ORGANIC RESTAURANTS

Please note that most Italian restaurants have a lot of vegetarian options - just ask for senza carne, senza pesce (without meat, without sh) The Beehive (vegetarian & organic) - breakfast daily 7:30-10:30, weekend brunch 11-1pm, evening vegan buffets, Wed, Sat, Sun 7:00-9:30pm
via Marghera, 8 "(Termini) 06 44704553

Arancia Blu (vegetarian)

via Prenestina, 396 (Pigneto) 06 4454105

Naturist Club (vegetarian)

via delle Vite, 14 (Spanish Steps) 06 6792509

Margutta Vegetariana (vegetarian)

via Margutta, 117 (Spanish Steps) 06 32650577

YOGA
Hatha style yoga:
Accademia Yoga, via XX Settembre, 58 (Porta Pia) www.accademiayoga.it

Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga:

Scuola Ashtanga Yoga, via Annia 54 (Celio) www.astanga.it

Power yoga, ashtanga and anusara yoga:

Ego Yoga, via Cola di Rienzo, 162 (Prati)" www.ego-yoga.it

Various yoga styles:

LAlbero e La Mano at via Pelliccia, 3 (Trastevere) www.lalberoelamano.it

Iyengar yoga:
Studio Iygengar via Tagliamento, 45 (Trieste) www.studioiyengaryoga.com

Bikram yoga
Bikram Yoga Roma via Aurelia, 190 www.bikramyogaroma.it

Various yoga styles

Arya Yoga via Umberto Giordano, 99/c14 (Infernetto) www.aryayoga.it

Kundalini yoga:
Centro Naad (Monti/Esquilino) via Giovanni Lanza, 125 www.naad.it Budokanin via Properzio, 4 (Prati/Vatican) www.budokanin.com

MASSAGE
Jenifer Vinson at The Beehive by appointment, Swedish style)
via Marghera, 8 (Termini) !35 for 50 minutes for Beehive guests !45 for 50 minutes for non-Beehive guests

Baan Thai (Thai massage)

Borgo Angelico, 22 (Prati/Vatican) www.baanthai.it

Acqua Madre (Hammam/turkish style spa)

via di S. Ambrogio, 17 (Jewish Ghetto) www.acquamadre.it

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

MUSEUMS
Rome has dozens of museums, here are just a few of our particular favorites. Please note that most state museums are closed on Mondays. The only exceptions to this are the Galleria Doria Pamphilj and the Vatican Museums. Galleria Borghese Piazzale del Museo Borghese (Villa Borghese Park)
Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30am-7:30pm. Reservations required and there are reserved entrance times. Reservations can be done on-line in advance or we are happy to call and reserve for you. www.galleriaborghese.it Tickets !11 plus !5 for audio guide which we highly recommend. In our opinion, the most beautiful gallery in Rome. The Bernini statuary is an absolute must-see. Considered one of the best collections of classical art in the world - at one time coveted by Napoleon. In ne weather, dont miss the older Italian men playing bocci ball in the pitch located out front near the park entrance.

National Museum of Rome, Palazzo Massimo Largo di Villa Peretti, 1 (Termini)

Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-19:45/7:45pm Tickets: !7 and valid for 3 days for all 4 branches (Palazzo Altemps, near Piazza Navona (recommended also), Baths of Diocletian nearby and Crypta

Balbi near the Jewish Ghetto) One of the four branches of the National Museum of Rome conveniently located right near Termini train station houses an amazing collection from 2nd BCE to 5th CE. Scupture, ancient coins as well as frescos from the walls of Empress Livias summer villa incredibly preserved.

Galleria Doria Pamphilj via del Corso, 305

Closed Thursday. Open Monday-Sunday, 10:00am-18:00/6:00pm www.dopart.it/roma/en Ticket ofce closes at 17:00/5:00pm Tickets: !10.50 An amazing private art collection in one of the more beautiful villas in Rome. Paintings and sculpture by Caravaggio, Tiziano (Titian), Bernini, Velasquez, and more. The family still lives in the palazzo.

Capitoline Museums Piazza del Campidoglio (near Piazza Venezia)

Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-20:00/8:00pm, http://en.museicapitolini.org Tickets: !8.50 Oldest public collection in the world a must see for all t he amazing ancient statuary. Recently remodeled, there is also a caf with wonderful views.

Montemartini Museum/Museo Centrale Montemartini Via Ostiense, 106 (Ostiense/Garbatella)

Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-19:00/7:00pm, httTickets: !4.50 Denitely off the beaten path, but an amazing juxtaposition of the classical and industrial - Romes rst electric and now defunct power plant is the background to classical statuary. A unique museum space.

MACRO (Contemporary Art Museum of Rome) Via Reggio Emilia, 54 (Piazza Fiume)
Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday 11:00-19:00/7:00pm, Saturday 11:00-22:00/10:00pm Ticket: !8.50 Romes contemporary art museum - not to be confused with the Modern Art Museum near Villa Borghese. Recent renovations included a huge expansion. If you go further up the street and around the neighborhood youll nd other smaller, independent contemporary art galleries. Also nearby is one of our favorite gelaterias in the city (see Gelato). About a 20-25 minute walk from The Beehive.

MACRO - Testaccio - Piazza Orazio Giustiniani, 4

Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 16:00/4:00pm-22:00/10:00pm, Ticket: !5 Another branch of the MACRO located in what were once Romes slaughterhouses in the 19th century. Exhibits as well as different artistic and cultural events and workshops take place here. Beehive Tip: Theres a combination MACRO + MACRO Testaccio ticket valid for 7days that is !11 to visit both museums.

Villa Giulia National Etruscan Museum Piazzale di Villa Giulia, 9 (Villa Borghese Park)
Closed Monday. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30am-19:30/7:30pm, Ticket: !8 Splendid collection of artifacts from one of the most important pre-Roman civilizations the Etruscans.

Vatican Museums viale Vaticano (Vatican)

Closed Sunday. Open Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm, Saturday until 2pm except last Sunday of the month when closing time is 12:30pm. Ticket !15 (going up to !16 in 2013) Home of the Sistine Chapel and many other important works of art, but poorly marked and no descriptions. We highly encourage a walking tour of St. Peters and the museums to get the most out of your time there. Tickets can be purchased in advance at: http://biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/musei/tickets/do The Vatican Museums have free entrance the last Sunday of every month.

CHURCHES
Rome has around 400 churches in the city center alone. Please note that with the exception of St. Peters many of these churches have closing times around lunch and reopen mid afternoon and on Sundays are only open in the afternoons. Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli - Piazza della Republicca (Termini)
Church that was incorporated into the ancient Baths of Diocletian by Michelangelo it also has a meridian line (see the astrological gures in the oor) commissioned by Pope Clement XI in 1702 that was used to check the time, predict Easter and check the accuracy of the new Gregorian calendar.

Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore (Termini)

Baroque style glory. If you like mosaics, this is a denite must-see. Here you will also nd four boards said to have been part of the manger of the nativity.

Basilica San Clemente - Piazza San Clemente (Colosseum)

Admission fee to the excavations: !5 Unique in that you can see three layers of history under one roof. A medieval church built in the 12th century, it was built on top of a 6th century church which in turn had been built over a 2nd century Mythric temple. Mythricism was an ancient and mysterious cult religion followed by Roman soldiers and gladiators. For a small entrance fee, you can see both the remains of the temple and the 6th century church. As Steve puts it, if its subterranean, its cool.

San Pietro in Vincoli - Piazza San Pietro in Vincoli (Colosseum)

In the back of this church youll nd the formidable statue of Moses carved by Michelangelo as well as what are said to have been the chains (vincoli) that bound St. Peter while he was imprisoned by the Romans.

Santa Maria in Trastevere - Piazza Santa Maria (Trastevere)

Gold, gold and more gold! Magnicent Byzantine style decorated church located in an eclectic area of Rome.

Santa Maria del Popolo - Piazza del Popolo (Flaminio)

In this dark little church youll nd skull & crossbones motifs everywhere and two fantastic Caravaggio paintings tucked away in the back in the corner.

Santa Maria sopra Minerva - Piazza della Minerva (Pantheon)

In front of this church is Lindas favorite statue in Rome - a whimsical elephant with an obelisk on its back designed by Bernini (the obelisk is Egyptian dating from the 6th century BC), restored in early 2012. Inside youll nd rare (for Rome) Gothic style building.

Santa Maria in Cosmedin - Piazza Bocca della Verita (Circus Maximus)

A dusty, dark, humble, but lovely little church with beautiful mosaics in the oor. The Bocca della Verita (Mouth of Truth) is in the entrance way. This church also houses the skull of Saint Valentine.

Santa Maria della Vittoria - Via XX Settembre, 17 (Repubblica)

Baroque splendor and Berninis The Ecstasy of St. Theresa statue make this the reason not to miss this church during your time in Rome. Visit in the late afternoon when the afternoon light comes through a hidden window gilding the entire chapel.

Santa Susanna- Largo Santa Susanna/Via XX Settembre, 15 (Repubblica)

This church is as gorgeous as many of Romes churches, but the reason it's mentioned is because its also the seat of the American Catholic church in Rome so if you want to attend a mass in English, this would be the place to do it.

San Giovanni in Laterano - Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano (San Giovanni)

Romes ofcial cathedral (St. Peters is the Vaticans). As huge and imposing as St. Peters without the dome. For an extra bit of euro, check out the beautiful, twisted, mosaic columns in the cloisters.

San Pietro / St. Peters Piazza San Pietro (Vatican)

Winter hours (1 Oct - 31 March) 8:00am-17:00/5:00pm Summer hours (1 April - 30 September) 8:00am-18:00/6:00pm THE Roman Catholic church. A denite must-see. The climb to the cupola (dome) is a truly surreal and interesting experience. Beehive tip: use the elevator even with the help of the elevator its quite a climb (an additional 320 steps). Not for the (literally) faint-hearted or claustrophobic. Tickets to climb up into the dome: !7

SITES WORTH SEEING

Beehive tip: Please check at ticket counters to see if there are reduced ticket prices for students with id or European Union citizens with id.

Beehive tip: Consider purchasing the Roma Pass. This integrated pass for !30 is valid for 3 days and includes: entry to two museums or archaeological sites, reduces prices after your initial 2 visits, use of public transit (bus & metro) for 3 days after rst validation, special line at the Colosseum and map, use of special travel health center. Please check the website for more detailed information and to purchase. www.romapass.it There is an English language option. The pass can also purchased at tourist information points throughout the city. Beehive tip: 110 Open Bus. Walking is truly the best way to see the city and we work with a couple of walking tour companies that can truly enhance your experience with their knowledge and expertise. However, if you just want a quick orientation of the city this hop on/hop off bus is a good option that takes you to all the sites, but does not provide a tour as such. Trambus 110 Open is a double decker bus with an open top and you can pick it up at Termini train station. Tickets are !20, reduced with the Roma Pass. Families of 4 people pay !50. The Colosseum
Open 7 days/week (closed 1 May, 25 December, 1 January) Hours: 8:30-16:30/4:30pm (last Sunday of October to 15 Feb) 8:30-17:00/5:00pm (16 Feb to 15 March) 8:30-19:15/7:15pm (Last Sunday of March to 31 August) 8:30-19:00/7:00pm (1 Sept - 30 Sept) 8:30-18:30 (1 Oct - last Sunday of Oct) Ticket: !12 Tickets can be bought on-line at www.ticketclic.it. Tickets can also be bought at the ticket ofces of the Palatine Hill located in Via San Gregorio, 30 and Piazza Santa Maria Nova, 53 (200m from the Colosseum). Ticket allows entrance into the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum as well. THE Roman monument. Made from travertine marble, the same stone as the Trevi Fountain. Magnicent even with all the stains of pollution. See if you notice the one small section that was cleaned in time for the Giubileo 2000 and youll get a glimpse of its former splendor. As of this edit, the Tods shoe company has contributed to a multi-million euro restoration which is projected to be completed in 2014. Keeping our ngers crossed.

Roman Forum
Open 7 days/week (closed 1 May, 25 December, 1 January) Ticket: (see above for Colosseum) Romes former public area - food courts and brothels eventually made way for business centers, law courts and temples galore. A walking tour (or an excellent guidebook) of the Forum truly gives you the insight into the past and to piece together what each of these ancient ruins were.

Imperial Forum
Also includes Trajans Market located at via IV Novembre, 94 Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-19:00/7:00pm The most impressive site here is Trajans Column which spirals up to 98 ft. (30 m) and has detailed scenes of Emperor Trajans victories. The column has been here since AD 113 / 113 CE.

Monument to Vittorio Emmanuele (the Vittoriano) - Piazza Venezia

Open 7days/week, 9:30-19:30/7:30pm, Entrance free, elevator to the top is !7, free for children under 10. Built in the late 1800s and completed in 1911 in time for Italys 50th anniversary of unication. The tomb of the unknown soldier and the eternal ame of Rome hold important spots here also and are guarded year round. Most Italians dislike this monument because the builders laid waste a part of the Roman Forum to build it and the Brescian marble is a type that brightens in the sun rather than mellows and yellows like the Travertine marble used throughout Rome. There is now an elevator to the top for a great view of Romes historic center.

Palatine Hill
Open 7 days/week (closed 1 May, 25 December, 1 January) Ticket: see the Colosseum) Area that was once the residence of emperors and aristocrats. Lots of green, cool breezes and a sh pond this hill is a nice change of pace from the often too dusty, too crowded and hot Roman Forum. Contains the ruins of the Palace of Septimius Severus as well as the recently restored home of the Vestal Virgins. Great views of it can also be seen from the Circus Maximus.

Baths of Caracalla
Open daily, 9:00-18:30/6:30pm, Mondays 9:00-14:00/2:00pm Ticket: !6 The Appian Way ticket is valid for 7days at 3 sites (Baths of Caracalla, Villa of the Quintilii, Mausoleum of Caecilia Metella) Largest and best preserved ruins of one of the three large public bathhouses of ancient Rome. Not on The Beehive map as it is a bit south near the Circus Maximus. Avoid the entrance fee and just admire their grandeur from the outside. In the summer, classical music and opera productions are staged here. www.operaroma.it (there is an English language option)

Circus Maximus
Depending on the time of year, now just a dusty or green open eld so you really must use your imagination to visualize the splendor that it was, but recent archaeological restorations are nearing stage one of completion. From the southern end you can see the Moletta Tower and other newly excavated fragments. Spectacular views of the buildings on the Palatine Hill can be seen from here.

Fontana delle Tartarughe - Piazza Mattei

The lovely and subtle turtle fountain has been recently restored and is a pleasure to behold. Historical note:! the fountain was built in 1581, but the turtles were put in 77 years afterwards. The incorporation is seamless and so clever. The fountain is in Romes historical Jewish quarter which also has Romes only synagogue. Please note that Italian Jews known as Italkim are Europes oldest non-dyasporic Jewish community and many of the families living in this neighborhood have been living there for generations.

Casino Nobile - Villa Torlonia (via Nomentana, 70)

Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00-19:00/7:00pm, last admission 45 minutes before closing time. Ticket: !7.50 (combined for Casino Nobile and Casina delle Civette) Recently restored, this building became home to Benito Mussolini and his family in 1925 where he paid a token rent of 1!Lire a year. Considered one of the most beautiful 18th century buildings in Rome. The Casina delle Civette was built in the 19th century and was painstakingly restored to its original splendor in the 1990s. Some favorite features are the stained glass throughout including those of two owls from which the house got its name. (House of Owls).

A few of Romes public parks: Villa Celimontana & Villa Borghese & Villa Torlonia
If you want to escape Romes scooters and chaos and check into some greenery and solitude, have a picnic or simply soak up some sun in peace, try one of these convenient and beautiful public city parks. The Villa Celimontana is located on the south side of the Colosseum. Walk up Via Claudia and then just past the church Santa Maria in Domnica is the entrance to the park on the right. The Villa Borghese is north of the Spanish Steps. All three have childrens areas and plenty of green. The Villa Torlonia has a restaurant called La Limonaia which is a great place in the summer to eat outdoors. Its open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-24:00/midnight, Sunday, 10:00-19:00/7:00pm and Monday 17:00/23:00/11:00pm. Reservations required for dinner. 06.4404021.

View from the Gianicolo Hill - Trastevere

If you are looking for a spectacular and panoramic view of Rome and a great photo op, visit the top of the Gianicolo (Janiculum) hill in Trastevere. Best time to visit is right before sunset when the setting sun bathes the city in a hazy golden glow.

Appia Antica - ancient Roman road

The Appia Antica is one of the ancient consular roads of Rome and is a gorgeous green area just on the outskirts of Romes center. You can walk, bike (available for rent on the Via Appia) or take the Archeobus to explore here. Archeobus Open tour of Rome tickets are !12 with a family rate of !40 and children under 10 are free. The bus can be picked up at Termini train station.

SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Tomb of the Capucin Monks - at Santa Maria della Concezione, Via Veneto 27 (Piazza Barberini)
Closed Thursday and few hours in the early afternoon. Admission fee is a small donation. Short metro ride away from The Beehive on the red line (Line A) just off the Barberini metro stop. A crypt with the bones of over 4,000 monks artistically displayed in various scenes. If youre looking for bones, this is the place.

Keyhole (Knights of Malta) - Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta (Aventino)

You cant go inside the Piranesi-designed Villa del Priorato di Malta or its secret garden, but you can peek through its famous key hole for a surprising perspective on the dome of St. Peters.

Protestant Cemetery - Via Caio Cestio, 6 (Testaccio)

Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00am-17:00/5:00pm (last entrance at 16:00/4:00pm) Entrance by donation, suggested donation is !3 A glorious oasis of calm off a very busy area in Rome, this cemetary located near the Ostiense train station offers a respite of tranquility especially in the heat of summer with lots of shady green spots and cool marble benches. Its also one of several cat sanctuaries in town. Spend some time commiserating with feline friends and pay your respects to the poet, Keats who is buried here. In the same area is the Pyramid of Cestius an anomoly of structure located at the intersection of two very busy Roman streets, the pyramid was built circa 12 BC.

Crypt of the Capucin Monks - at Santa Maria della Concezione, Via Veneto 27 (Piazza Barberini)
Closed Thursday. Open 9:00-noon, 15:00/3:00pm-18:00/6:00pm Entrance by donation, suggested donation is !2 - no photography allowed, they are VERY strict about this. Short metro ride away from The Beehive on the red line (Line A) just off the Barberini metro stop. A crypt with the bones of over 4,000 monks artistically displayed in various scenes. If youre looking for bones, this is the place.

Dario Argento Horror Museum/Profondo Rosso - Via dei Gracchi, 260 (Prati/Vatican area)
Closed Sunday and during lunch hours. !3 for museum entrance, shop entrance is free. For a bit of horror camp in Rome, visit the museum & shop of Italian horror lm director Dario Argento. The museum is in the basement. Its teeny tiny and not worth a special trip, but if you are a horror fan and in the area, might be worth the pilgramage.

National Pasta Museum (Museo Nazionale delle Paste Alimentari) Piazza Scanderbeg, 117 (near Trevi Fountain)
Open daily, 9:30-17:30/5:30pm. Ticket: !10 included in the ticket price is audioguide All you ever wanted to know about pasta and then some. From the pre-Roman era to present time.

FIlm "La Dolce Vita" - Cinema Azzurro - Via degli Scipioni, 82 (Prati)
Every Sunday, 17:00/5:00pm. Ticket: !6 If you want to see the iconic Fellini lm in the city it was made, come on a Sunday to the small screening room of this theatre. In Italian witih English subtitles. There are many other unusual museums throughout the city: from a wax museum to a museum on nativity scenes. On the more traditional side there is a naval museum, a folklore museum, a museum on Roman civilization, etc. For more information on these museums and more, ask at reception.

DAY TRIPS
What are some good day trips from Rome?
In the summer we recommend taking a day to get out of the heat of Rome and going to the beach. The closest beaches are in Ostia, but because of how polluted these particular waters are we cannot in good conscious recommend them. If you dont mind taking a toxic dip, ask at reception and well tell you how to get there.

Santa Marinella is an easy beach day. In about an hour by train you can escape the city and trafc. Trains
leave from Termini several times an hour and tickets are !4.60 one way (prices subject to change). Unfortunately, the Italian coastline is heavily commercialized and full of private beach clubs (stabilimento) so youll have to pay an entrance fee and a bit more if you want a lounge chair and/or an umbrella. Most of these places offer other services such as toilets, restaurants and snack bars. For more simple, clean beaches, the closest destinations would be Sabaudia and San Felice Circeo - both about 1.5 hours south of Rome by car and 2-2.5 hours by public transport. No trains, youll have to take the blue Cotral pullman buses, which can be picked up from the Laurentina metro stop off the Line B (blue line) metro. Private beach clubs exist here too, but there are also many long stretches of free sand. If you want to get a little further away, take a train from Termini train station to a beach town called Sperlonga (youll have to take a train in the direction of Naples, get off at Fondi-Sperlonga after a little over an hour and then take a blue Cotral bus to Sperlonga). This town was built on a cliff top with whitewashed buildings and narrow winding streets. Down below the town is some of the cleanest sand and water near Rome. Many of the beaches are private so you may have to pay to use an umbrella & chair, but there are some stretches that are free & open to the general public. If you dont get a chance to go to Pompeii near Naples (which is also an excellent day trip , but you must leave early in the morning and its a full day) you can also check out the very well- preserved ruins at O stia Antica, which is about a 30 minute train ride away. Take the Blue Line (Line B) metro to Piramide and then take the local Lido di Ostia train. The one metro ticket pays for both trains. Context Travel (see Tours section in FAQ) offers an excellent tour of this archaeological site. The towns of Florence and Orvieto also make excellent day trips from Rome. Florence is only about 1.5 hours away on the Eurostar train. There is too much to say about this Renaissance city than can be covered here. However, because of the great inux of tourists and difcult to nd accommodations especially in the summer months, some people do decide to make it a day trip. Linda & Steve recently moved to Orvieto, a medieval town located on a high hill overlooking the Umbrian countryside. Orvieto is famous for its Duomo (cathedral) and also for its excellent white wine. Taking the train is easy enough from Termini station, which will get you to Orvieto in 1 hour (tickets are !7.50 or !15.50 depending on the train). A funicular directly across from the Orvieto train station brings you up into the town. Outside of the funicular station there is a bus, which can take you up into the main square. The funicular does stop running at 20:30/8:30pm. Enjoy the views, strolling the streets and an excellent meal at any of their very ne restaurants As Linda puts it, If its a medieval hill town, its cool. We have a our own list of personal recommendations of things to do and places to eat that we are happy to forward to you, just send an e-mail directly to Linda at [email protected]

Im a bit tired of sight-seeing and just want to relax. Can you suggest something else to do?
How about doing as the Romans do and indulging in some of the Italian il dolce far niente the sweetness of doing nothing. Slow down. Hang out at a caf and people-watch and catch up on conversation. In the evening (especially in the summer), go to any one of the roof-top terrace bars located at the higher end hotels and drink in the golden light and see the birds-eye view of Rome. You pay a bit more for the drink, but just think of all the money youre saving by staying at The Beehive! Some good choices are: Hotel St. George on Via Giulia. Hotel Raphael near Piazza Navona, Hotel Minerva near the Pantheon, Hotel Eden near Via Veneto, Hassler Hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps or Radisson SAS Hotel near Piazza Vittorio (and the Clover & Acacia guestrooms). If youre feeling particularly daring, rent a scooter and experience Rome as the locals. Try to rent on a Sunday when the trafc is lighter and you might actually be able to enjoy yourself rather than feeling like youve just made a death wish. There is a scooter rental point on the corner of Via Varese and Via Milazzo near The Beehive. Or you can get the most out of your experience by doing a scooter (or bicycle) tour with Scooteroma Tours at www.scooteroma.com Beehive guests receive a discount. **For more suggestions, check out The Romans Rome section below or check out Day Trips from Rome.

THE ROMANS ROME - NEIGHBORHOODS

The sad fact is that many of you are here on limited time and/or here for the rst time so its essential to see all the sites, galleries and monuments that you have heard and read so much about. Yet if you have the time or inclination we strongly encourage you to go beyond the well-blazed tourist trails and discover a Rome beyond the tourist hordes. Head into the lesser known neighborhoods and beyond into the actual Roman countryside. Weve listed below several neighborhoods that we think are worth exploring and easy to get to by public transit.

Testaccio the former blue-collar neighborhood of Rome, once the location of the city slaughterhouses,

located south of the Circus Maximus near the Tiber River. Now becoming an area of funky boutiques, health food stores, but always lled with great local restaurants, bakeries and a large, covered market. Visit the excellent Volpetti food shop on Via Marmorata, 47 (Closed Sunday) for the best selection in the city of cheeses, salami and other portable goodies - they will allow you to sample almost any item. They have a website and deliver worldwide so they can let you know how to take home those yummy edibles and pack them accordingly. An unusual site in this neighborhood is Monte Testaccio a mountain that was built from the remains of the clay pots, which used to deliver goods to the ancient Roman ports. Several restaurants and nightclubs are built into the hill, which is now covered in foliage and you can view the ruins from inside some of these locales. Another unusual attraction is the historic Protestant Cemetery behind Romes very own pyramid - an unlikely way to spend the afternoon, but in the summer months it offers an incredible respite because of the huge shade trees. You can sit on a cool marble bench, visit with the local cats from the cat sanctuary and pay your respects to Keats. At the partially renovated former city slaughterhoues, check out the new branch of the MACRO art museum as well as the newly opened complex Citta dell Altra Economia dedicated solely to fair trade products including a retail shop, bar, grocery store and restaurant. Restaurants to try in the area: Flavio al Velavevodetto, via di Monte Testaccio, 97 (open daily), 06.5744194 (you can see cutaways of Monte Testaccio described above inside the restaurant) Tutti Frutti, via Luca della Robbia, 3A, (closed Sunday, open for dinner only, 06.5757902) Felice, via Mastro Giorgio, 29 (Closed Sunday dinner), 06.5746800 N Arte N Parte, via Luca della Robbia, 15. (Closed Monday, 06.5750279) Osteria degli Amici, via Nicola Zabaglia, 25 (Closed Tuesday, 06.5781466 Pizzeria Remo (BEST Roman pizza), Piazza di Santa Maria Liberatrice, 44, (Closed Sunday, 06.5746270)

San Lorenzo the main university area of Rome, home of La Sapienza University, located north-east of
Termini train station. Laid back and liberal student atmosphere during the day with (in our opinion) loads of restaurants and a lively nightlife. A must visit for you chocolate lovers - SAID (Antica Fabrica del Cioccolato, closed Sunday) - Romes oldest chocolate confectioners. At the front is their retails shop and in back is their restaurant and bar where you can either have lunch & dinner or just sit back with a hot chocolate in the afternoon. Be sure to visit during chocolate themed holidays such as around Valentines, Easter and Christmas for some gorgeously packaged confections. Restaurants to try in the area: Tram Tram, via dei Reti, 44 (closed Mondays, 06.490416) Punto Macrobiotico

Monti one of Romes oldest neighborhoods squeezed into a tight area just north of the Roman Forum and
west off of the main drag Via Cavour. Lots of cobblestone and narrow streets watch out for the scooters! Many unusual boutiques with one of a kind handmade clothing & jewelry, an excellent artisan chocolate shop, a tea shop with an interesting array of loose leaf teas and some interesting caf/art galleries, restaurants and pizzerias. Restaurants to try in the area: Taverna Romana on via Madonna dei Monti, 79 (Closed Sunday, 06.4745325) La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, via Madonna dei Monti, 9, (Closed Tuesday) 06.679.86.43 La Bottega del Caffe at Piazza Madonna dei Monti, 5 (good place for a pre-dinner drink or light lunch) Al Vino al Vino - via dei Serpent, (wine bar) some great wine and nibbles options - you can order enough here to make a meal if you don't want a big sit down dinner. The caponata is sweet, savory & delicious. The Franciacorta Rose is a favorite if you like pink & bubbly. Cavour 313 Via Cavour, 313 (wine bar) Open daily. Closed 3 weeks in August. Credit cards accepted. 06.6785496 Mother India - via dei Serpenti, 148 (Indian food) Open for lunch & dinner daily. Credit cards accepted. 06 4740777

Trieste/Salario- Were very biased about this neighborhood as we lived here for 6 years. Its denitely the
kind of neighborhood that after a few days, youll feel at home. For those of you who want a taste of Roman life, head to the covered fruit and vegetable market at Piazza Alessandria for inexpensive, fresh produce. On Via Alessandria theres an artisan pasta maker, a butcher, and on Reggio Emilia, a little organic food shop that also sells body care products. Theres a great wine shop/ enoteca, at Piazza Regina Margherita and in the same piazza. This is one of the greener neighborhoods of Rome starting with the Villa Torlonia, a gorgeous park with a restaurant/pizzeria, La Limonaia for relaxed dining al fresco. The Villa Torlonia is a great place for a stroll, a jog or a picnic. You can watch elderly Italian men playing bocce ball outside the local community center. In the park is the recently restored and gorgeous 18th century Casino Nobile (Mussolinis home in Rome when he was in power) while on the other side of the spectrum is Technotown which offers workshops in new media for 8-17 year olds. Other public parks within walking distance is the dog lovers Villa Paganini, the uncultivated, wild-ish Villa Ada and the polished Villa Borghese. Architecture? You can walk to Piazza Mincio and see some of the coolest buildings in Rome designed by Gino Copped and beautiful and timeless mosaics at the church of Sant Agata fuori le mura (Saint Agnes outside the walls). The restored and adorable Casina delle Civette in the Villa Torlonia houses a stain glass museum. Art? The newly expanded MACRO (Museum of Contemporary Art) located on Via Reggio Emilio hosts various revolving exhibits while nearby have sprouted up countless small contemporary local art galleries. Is it easily accessible? To reach this neighborhood, you could walk from The Beehive in about 20 minutes (we used to walk daily to and from), or you can catch a bus at Termini station, the #38 from Platform O and get there in about 10 minutes. This neighborhood has something to offer for everyone. Restaurants to try in the area: Da Emilio - via Alessandria, 189, 06.8558977 La Maremma - via Alessandria, 119, 06.8554002 Tribeca - via Messina, 29, 06.44250923 Gelateria dei Gracchi - viale Regina Margherita, 212

AND BEYOND
Just 30 minutes to 1.5 hours north of the city are several areas close to Rome that have their own interesting histories and hidden treasures in beautiful natural settings gently green rolling hills, lakes, medieval castles, ancient ruins and necropolises. A car is required to reach these places. Ask Linda for more information.

ROME WITH KIDS

Is Rome a child friendly city? What can we do to keep our children entertained?
Most Italians will dote on your children especially infants or toddlers. Children are welcome anywhere including all restaurants. Try not to pack in too much in a day and for every adult activity, make sure there is an equal childrens activity. For example, after you take in the Galleria Borghese, make sure to hit the Explora Childrens Museum (not in league with other childrens museums weve seen, but entertaining for the younger children nonetheless). An interesting one of a kind diversion would be Rome's Gladiator School - for children 8+, history and basic gladiator techniques taught including a re-enactment. Can be booked directly through Viatour at http:// www.viator.com/tours/Rome/Roman-Gladiator-School-Learn-How-to-Become-a-Gladiator/d511-2466GLAD Rome also has quite a few public parks (see Public Parks under Sites Worth Seeing). The Villa Borghese park has pony rides, bicycle rentals (incl. "family" bikes that can seat up to 4 and have power assist for going up hills) a small rowing lake, playgrounds, and a childrens movie theater as well as the Casina di Raffaello, an educational childrens center with wooden play structures outside, but which on a recent visit was in a very sad state of disrepair. Each of the parks has a childrens play area including the Colle Oppio, a large public park near the Colosseum. That said - Rome is NOT a parent friendly city. You will not nd many of the play areas in parks in good condition, it is difcult to navigate the city in a stroller/push chair (if babies, consider a wrap or other attachment style carrier), elevators in the metro stations are non-existent and you won't nd changing tables in the bathrooms.

Do you have any recommendations for childrens clothing or toy shops? In my opinion, the best toy shop in Rome is Citta del Sole which has several locations including one near the
Pantheon. There are quite a few Italian artisanal objects that make great gifts for children depending on the age that are not necessarily toys such as paper products, leather bracelets, etc. For childrens clothing, I prefer the French brands such as Petit Bateau and Due Pareil au Meme as well as Spanish department store Zara. Italian childrens clothing are either extremely pricey (see the lush Pinco Pallino on via del Babuino, 115 near the Spanish Steps or Bonpoint at Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina, 25 near via del Corso). If you want a reasonably priced Italian brand, you might consider Benetton or Sisley located conveniently together at Termini train station.

Do you offer babysitting services?

We don't offer a babysitting service, but you might consider Angels Babysitting Services which have been in Rome for many years. Their ofces are at via dei Fienili, 98 and their phone is 06.6782877, 3386679718 Email: [email protected] Angels, an English owned agency, provides English speaking babysitters as well as nannies. Our friend Amie of Ciao Bambino (www.ciaobambino.com) travels often to Italy, has used them for years and personally recommends them.

THE BASICS
How do I use the public pay phone?
If you can actually nd a public phone, you'll need to buy a Telecom Italia phone card (scheda/carta telefonica), break off the perforated corner and insert into phone. When dialing a toll free number, you may or may not need a phone card to activate the phone. International phone cards give you more minutes if use the Telecom Italia phone card and dial the local access number. This card is different then the ones we have for sale at The Beehive, which is an international phone card. However, to use the international phone card at a public pay phone you would still require a Telecom phone card to activate the phone.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. Lots of minerals including high calcium content, but you wont get sick from it. Brown street spigots located throughout the city are great sources for lling up water bottles. This natural spring water comes straight from the hills surrounding Rome.

How and where do I mail a postcard?

Visit a tobacconist shop (tabaccheria/tabacchi) and buy stamps (francobolli) or stop by the post ofce at Termini or other post ofce stations throughout the city. The name of the Italian postal service is Poste Italiane and is recognized by a yellow sign with the initials PT in blue. Italian mail service is terrible, so please do not send anything particularly valuable through the post. Costs are as follows: letter or postcard under 20g to US, Australia or Asia: !2 letter or postcard under 20g within Europe: !0.85 letter or postcard under 20g within Italy: !0.70 A tobacconist shop can be identied by the large T sign hanging above their doors. Costs are the same as the post ofce. Red post boxes are located outside of most tobacconist shops. The slot on the right is for destinations other than Rome. There is a post box (not a tobacconist) on Via Dei Mille just around the corner to the right of The Beehive. Generally, if we have a simple letter to mail, we prefer going to the tobacconist since there is no waiting like there is at the post ofce.

TRANSPORTATION
Where can I catch the bus? !How much are the tickets? How do I get from Point A to Point B?
Best bet is to go to Termini train station a major stopping off point for many city bus lines. The cost for a bus ticket is !1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes and can be bought at tobacconists (tabaccheria) or newsstands (edicola). ! Dont forget to validate the ticket once you board the bus. Bus service is based on the honor system, and ticket inspections are random. Rather than worry about a possible !50 ne, its just best to buy the ticket. Keep a few on you at a time or purchase a daily pass for !6, 3 day for !16.50 or 7 day pass for !24.00 If youre trying to get back to The Beehive by bus after 10:30pm/22:30 at night, locate bus signs with an owl on the top. These are the night buses. However, their running times are infrequent so depending where youre at it may be easier to take a taxi or walk. Take any bus with a nal destination of Termini and from there its a 5 minute walk to The Beehive. One of the few city websites that actually works - the public transit site is extremely useful. Go to http:// www.atac.roma.it and at Percorso input in the Da (From) section, Cinquecento. This is from the hub at Termini train station, which is close to The Beehive. Under A put in the address of your destination leaving out Piazza or Via, just the main name. It then tells you what buses or metros and the names of the stops to get to where you are going.

Where is the nearest Metro stop from The Beehive? From the offsite guestrooms, Clover or Acacia?
Both metro lines (Line A/Red & Line B/Blue) stop at Termini train station. Metro lines start running at 5:30am and stop at 11:30pm (23:30). Line A/Red is currently undergoing construction work and now closes at 9:00pm/ 21:00 until further notice. Taking the red Line A from Termini train station is currently a huge mess and trains run late. If possible, our personal opinion is to avoid Line A metro from Termini until the construction work is done and to take a bus instead. For the Acacia apartment its the same information as The Beehive. !For Clover and Milleori, the closest metro stop is Line A/Red at Piazza Vittorio.

Im traveling by car. Where is the nearest place to park?

Im afraid we do not have parking available at The Beehive. Street parking is very limited, but if you nd it is !1.20 an hour from. Please make sure not to leave valuables or bags in the car as cars with foreign plates are especially targeted.

Parking near The Beehive, Clover & Acacia

- Termini train station - large open car park off of Viale Enrico di Nicola just in front of Termini train station. - Terminal Park - Via Marsala 30 - also near Termini train station, but an indoor garage. Rates for a small car start at !20 per day. You can also check out the website www.parcheggi.it for additional information on parking garages throughout the city.

How long does it take to get to Venice, Florence, etc.? How much does it cost?
We recommend taking the fast trains when at all possible. Times below reect Eurostar times. Eurostar trains are best booked in advance. Taking a slower train (IC or Regional train) can sometimes double or even triple your travel time, but cost considerably less. Venice: Milan: Florence: Pisa: Siena: Naples: Pompeii: 3 hours 50 minutes 3.5 hours 1.5 hours 3 hours (switching trains in Florence) 3 hours (switching trains in Chiusi) 1 hour 10 minutes 2.5 (switching trains in Naples)

Italys national rail service is called Ferrovie dello Stato FS for short. Fast trains, the Eurostar (ES), AltaVelocita (AV) or Frecciarossa (ES/AV) is by reservation only. To make the reservation you need to go into Termini station to the Eurostar ofce at the end of the long line of ticket counters and pay the supplement or book on-line. If you are traveling the same day, you can just go directly to the ticket counters. Cost of tickets varies and changes so your best bet is to check at Termini train station for the most current ticket prices or check out the FS website at http://www.fsitaliane.it/ There is a new train service called Italotreno (accent on the I), and offers limited high speed service between Rome Tiburtina and Ostiense train stations, Bologna, Milano and Naples. www.italotreno.it

How do I get to the airport?

Taking the train is the cheapest way if you are traveling alone or with little luggage. Buy your ticket at Termini train station at the newspaper stands for !14. It takes about 30 minutes to get to the airport by train. These trains start at 5:52am and leave every thirty minutes :22 and :52 minutes after the hour. Dont forget to validate your ticket before boarding in the green and white time boxes located on the platforms. They do check tickets and you will be ned if it hasnt been validated. Eurrail passes are valid on these trains. The trains for the airport depart from platform 25/26, but please check this as it does change. The walk to the platform is a good 10 minute walk away from the main gallery so plan accordingly. In addition, please note that for departures to the US or Israel, you will need to take a shuttle (Shuttle Express) once you arrive to the airport from the train to Terminal 5. Otherwise, by taxi is usually the best bet if you are leaving very early in the morning. We use a taxi service that charges Beehive guests at rate of !45 for 1-3 people, !50 for 4-5 people, !60 for 6 people (an additional !5 between 9:30pm/21:30 and 6:30am). Split between you and others in your party, this can be an economical and much more comfortable way of getting to the airport rather than dealing with the train. Advance booking is strongly encouraged as sometimes they are unable to accommodate last minute bookings. Another options is a shuttle service. You can book directly on-line at http://www.rome-airport-shuttle.com/"

THE DARK SIDE OF ROME

Should I worry about crime?
For being a major metropolitan city, Rome has a low crime rate. Crimes that are directed towards tourists are petty theft (pickpockets) or working a con type of crimes and we have never heard them turn violent. Pickpockets simply want to get your money/belongings with the least amount of resistance, but stay aware! Unfortunately, we have had many, many guests who have been robbed. We strongly encourage our guests to leave us their passports, airline/train tickets and other small valuables for safekeeping. There is no need to walk around the city with your passport. Keep an eye out for gypsies - long-haired, long-skirted women often pregnant or carrying a baby and surrounded by young children who usually do most of the dirty work. There are also older groups of teenage girls. They are the most visible, but not the only thieves. Be especially careful near major tourist attractions (including churches), at bus & metro stops and on public transportation when you are in a crowd and easily distracted. Keep your bag in sight and on your body at all times. Be aware when crossing the street! The statistic is that an average of 7 pedestrians a day are hit while crossing streets in Rome. The problem is exacerbated by crosswalks and corners being used as parking spaces making it difcult for cars to see you. Please dont assume that if you are on the crosswalk cars will stop for you. Be vigilant and be fast! Scams to Avoid! Scam #1: Someone approaches and motions to you to extend your nger or who says they have a gift (regalo) for you. They will make a friendship bracelet or offer some sort of cheap trinket and then you will be expected to pay for it. Best not to extend your nger or shake hands with anyone. They will and can get nasty if you refuse to pay. Scam #2: Youre walking down the street and a man in a car with a map on the front seat pulls up next to you and says he is lost. He will say he works for Valentino, Armani, Gucci or any known designer. He will ask if you can help him with gas money and will trade you one of the sample leather or suede jackets he has in his backseat for the small price of 20 or 50. The leather or suede jacket turns out to be an extremely cheap, smelly, PVC jacket not worth 2. Its an elaborate scheme, but the guy is persistent. Just walk away. Scam #3: Guys beware! A man walks up to you looking lost who says he is an Italian-American from New York. He says he is looking for a particular pub and cannot nd the street on the map he is carrying and could you help him. " nce you have found the street for him he asks if he can buy you a beer at that bar. " pparently when you arrive there is a big bouncer guy at the door and upon entering you notice its a pub/strip club type place. " irls are issued to your table to sit with you, than the waiter brings a bottle of champagne and asks if you would like to buy the girls drinks. When you get the bill, youve been charged an exorbitant amount of money. Beware of girls in g-strings baring gifts. Good rule of thumb regarding con artists: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Please note that street sellers in Rome are becoming increasingly assertive and aggressive. Shake your head no and keep walking. Dont attempt to get into a discourse with them about why you do not want their products. Most of these people do not speak neither English nor Italian uently although they may know a few words to try to get you interested.

WHEN BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE

My bag/wallet was stolen. What should I do?
File a police report ( denuncia) at the nearest police station (questura). Unfortunately, there wont be much they can do, but youll need this document in order to obtain an emergency passport (if your passport was stolen)and/or to show to your credit card company if there are any unauthorized charges in the interim. Listed below are some emergency credit card block numbers: Visa: 800 821001 Mastercard: 800 870866 American Express: 067290034 Diners: 800 864064 In addition, please let our reception know as we have been told that the police are beginning a program through the hotel association and we need to start providing them with information whenver this happens to one of our guests.

I dont feel well. Where should I go?

Pending availability, we have limited rst aid supplies at The Beehive for headache, stomach upset, sore throat, cuts, etc. Please note that The Beehive does not take responsibility for any adverse reactions you might have to medications. If you think this might be a concern, it would probably be in your best interest to visit a doctor or pharmacist instead. You might try checking at a pharmacy/chemist (farmacia) rst look for the blinking green or red neon crosses. There are several located near The Beehive and some do have staff who speak medical English. Most Italians visit the farmacia rst before heading to the doctor because they can offer limited medical advice. For visitors needing medical service, call SOS Salute at 06.64014750 and they will send a specialist to your hotel room. The service costs about !150. If its something more serious, go to the emergency room (pronto soccorso) at Ospedale Policlinico located a short taxi ride from The Beehive. Although youll have to wait depending on the severity of your illness, its free no matter what your nationality.

I took a taxi and I think I was overcharged!

Only ever take ofcial city taxis that are white (although there are yellow ones) that have the ofcial red seal on the side that says SPQR Comune di Roma. Taxis start the meter at !2.80, Mon-Sat, 7am-10pm and at !5.80 from 10pm to 7am. Sundays and holidays from 7am-10pm the meter starts at !4.00. NB: If you call a taxi rather than picking it up from a taxi stand, the meter starts from when the call was made and not from when it actually arrived and picked you up. Warning: Make sure the meter is set to Tariffa 1 and not Tariffa 2 - many taxi drivers are notorious for putting it on 2 or switching it to 2 sometime during the ride. Im sure there are plenty of honest taxi drivers, but unfortunately, we have had this happen one too many times and feel compelled to warn our guests. Please note these additional costs and discounts: rst bag is free - each extra bag larger than 35x25x50 cm is !1 extra - there is a supplement of !2 for journeys starting at Termini station - there is a supplement of !1 each for the 5th person and up - 10% discount if you are going to a Roman hospital - 10% discount for a woman traveling alone between 9pm and 1am

In every taxi there should be a price list in several languages. Please note that taxi drivers at the train station are notorious for overcharging, but keep an eye out in any taxi you get into.

TOURS, SIGHTSEEING AND NIGHT LIFE

What are some good tours of the city? We highly recommend our friends at Context Travel who offer many excellent and diverse walking tours and
are staffed with guides who have earned Ph.D. & Masters degrees in art history, archaeology and architecture. Visit their website directly at www.contexttravel.com to schedule a tour. Using promo code Beehive entails Beehive guests to a 15% discount off their small group tours. Context Rome also has family tours which are specially formulated tours with docents who have experience engaging and keeping tours interesting and informative for children.

Through Eternity is another reputable company that offers a variety of more general tours and they have
slightly larger groups. Beehive guests receive a 10% discount when using promo code Beehive when reserving at www.througheternity.com If you want to experience Rome by scooter (or bicycle), consider the Scooter Mavens Scooteroma tours. Beehive guests receive a discount when using promo code Beehive when reserving. www.scooteroma.com

Eating Italy is a tour company run by Kenny Dunn, a Philadelphia native and now Rome transplant. The tour
takes place in the Testaccio neighborhood visiting various food shops and markets and tastings are included 9 in total. Beehive guests receive a 15% discount when using the promo code Honey. www.eatingitalyfoodtours.com If you are more wine inclined, our friends at VinoRoma www.vinoroma really know their stuff being sommeliers and food experts. Beehive guests receive a 12% discount on their Rome Food Tour http:// www.vinoroma.com/?p=211. Send an e-mail and mention that you are a Beehive guest to receive the discount. For a bit of a different tour, consider a Sketching Rome Tour with local artist Kelly Medford. Some of Kellys work can be found on the walls of our Sweets common areas. She is a talented artist, very sweet with a wonderfully low key and engaging personality. You dont have to be an artist to take this tour - thats the point! You can nd more information about her and her tours at www.kellymedford.com Beehive guests receive a 20% discount for her tour using promo code Beehive. Private cooking classes tend to be on the expensive side. However, we have had former guests recommend Cooking Lessons in Rome with chef Andrea Consoli for reasonably priced lessons. Reservations can be made on-line at www.cookingclassesinrome.com

Beehive tip: In high season (March-October), it is recommended to book walking tours and museum reservations well in advance.
For a bus tour, try the ATAC city Open bus 110. This city owned bus is a huge, red, open, double-decker, airconditioned bus that passes by about 80 of the more famous spots in the city. You can hop off and hop on at certain destinations. Tickets can be purchased in front of the train station on platform E in the main bus terminal. Its not a detailed tour as they wont give you any interesting information, but if youre tired and not up yet to walking around for 2-3 hours on a walking tour this might be the way to go (although walking is THE best way to really see the city). There is now a similar bus that goes to all of the major churches and basilicas and another that goes down the ancient Roman road, the Appia Antica called Archeobus.

How do I get to the catacombs? To the Tivoli Gardens?

For the catacombs: Option 1: from Termini, take the 714 to Piazza S. Giovanni in Laterano, then switch to bus 218 and get off at the stop Fosse Aredeatine; the entrance is directly across from bus stop. Option 2: take the metro B to Piramide, then from in front of the station take bus 118 and get off at the stop Catacombe S. Callisto If you are short on time, we would not necessarily make a trip to the catacombs a priority as many people are disappointed by them: far away, no bones and obligatory tours that can be annoying. If you must go, check out the Catacombs of San Callisto (closed on Wednesdays). To get to Tivoli: Option 1: train from Termini station - about 1 hr. 15 mins. - !3 Option 2: Cotral bus (these are large blue buses) from Ponte Mammolo (metro line B) - between 40-70 mins depending on trafc - !2

Where are the nightclubs, bars? What is there to do at night?

By major metropolitan standards, Rome can seem a bit on the provincial side. But if you have to boogie the night away or your vacation is a bust, the hot spot for nightclubs is an area of Rome known as Testaccio. Nightclubs are very expensive in Rome as there are admission or membership fees to get in plus high drink prices will set you back quite a bit of euro. Campo dei Fiori has many pubs and bars that cater exclusively to tourists, and that is denitely more of a meat market vibe. The neighborhoods of San Lorenzo and Trastevere also offer a lively nightlife (San Lorenzo is geared more toward locals, Trastevere more toward visitors). For a truly Italian night out the great thing to do is to take a passeggiata meaning a stroll. Either grab a gelato and take a leisurely walk or sit in a piazza with a glass of wine or prosecco (Venetian champagne) and peoplewatch. The lights at night truly enhance the beauty and romance of this city. In the summer starting around mid-June and ending mid-September, there are tons of outdoor summer festivals for the Estate Romana (Roman Summer) which takes place every year and includes an excellent jazz festival at Villa Celimontana, a park close to the Colosseum area. These festivals cost very little to enter and depending on the festival have booths with food, drinks, video games, dancing, etc. In the summer, ask at reception for festivals taking place throughout Rome.

LEISURE TIME
I would like to go for a swim, a run, take a yoga class - where can I go?
Swimming pools are hard to come by that are conveniently located to the center of Rome. There are several large hotels outside of the center that make their pools available, but cost quite a bit of money to use and if you can do without during your time in Rome, your money could be better used doing other things. However, in summer only, there is a swimming pool located across the street from the Palatine Hill entrance near the Colosseum. Theres an entrance fee and fees for a lounge chair and umbrella, but a nice place to cool off in the summer that is centrally located in a beautiful setting. As of summer 2011 it was still running, but not sure if it will be available in future. Going for a run in Rome is not that pleasant with the uneven sidewalks, cobblestone streets and tendency of drivers of scooters and cars to not really be on the look out for runners (or pedestrians for that matter). The only fairly close places to go for a run near The Beehive is the Villa Torlonia and the Villa Borghese parks which are not incredibly convenient if you just want to step out the door. We no longer offer yoga at The Beehive, but please see the Holistic Rome section in this guide for studios that offer drop-in courses.

How can I nd out about events in Rome?

A very comprehensive English language website run by expats is located at www.inromenow.com

BEEHIVE FAQ
Can I store my bags at The Beehive?
You are welcome to leave your bags for the day on the day of check-out, but ask that you pick them up by 10:00pm/22:00. For longer storage, please make an inquiry to Linda at [email protected] We are happy to accommodate your request if we can.

Can I cook at The Beehive?

We do not have kettles or mini-fridges in the rooms and cannot allow food storage or cooking in our cafe by guests. In our Sweets rooms, there is a small sitting/dining area where guests have access to a mini-fridge, kettle and can prepare cold food items, but there is no hot cooking facilities. If you require a self-catering

kitchen, we ask that you consider reserving at our offsite guestrooms, Clover or Acacia which have a fully stocked kitchen for guests' use.

I'm traveling with a bicycle, can I store it at The Beehive?

Guests are welcome to leave their bicycles in our garden, but bicycles cannot be stored inside.

How did you two end up moving to Rome and opening The Beehive? How did you come up with the name The Beehive?
Were more than happy to give you the abbreviated version, but for a more detailed account - we have in the last year done various interviews and you can read or hear more about our story at http://www.itats.org/abeehive-in-rome/ or http://www.realityabroad.com/2012/11/01/1492/ As for the name, we thought of many very, very awful and laughable names before coming up with The Beehive (youll have to pay us a lot of euro or pour us a lot of wine before we tell you what those other names were!) Linda thought of it while lying in bed one night dreaming about this big adventure we were about to embark on. We wanted a name that would evoke the impression of a place that was stylish and cute, but also cozy and comfortable, clean and sunny. We hope you agree that it works!

THANKS!!
We would like to thank our manager Yuli, our Clover & Acacia colleague Paolo Cassasa and our Beehive staff: Francesca, Gianluca, Leah, Luciano, Michela, the Zeitgusto husband and wife team of Aimee & Francesco Accolla and Jenifer Vinson, massage therapist extraordinaire. A very special thanks to Gillian McGuire and Tiffany Parks for special contributions to this guide. And last, but certainly not least - we would like to thank YOU, our treasured Beehive guest, for giving us the motivation to keep doing what we are doing. Revised November 2012