accomodations

Marilou,
I stayed near the Train Station (Termini) and found it very convenient. I stayed at the Hotel Louisiana.
It is an old bldg. and it appears that each floor is a different hotel.
The lobby is on the second floor.
My room was on the 7th floor (top floor).
Very nice room with lots of room and large bathroom.
The breakfast room is not much - I prefer to grab something on the street.
There are several nice little restaurants on the same street or within a few blocks.
I could walk to the train station and the metro
station Republica. From there, I could go
anywhere. Several bus lines ran from the Republica
area into the Vatican area and elsewhere.
I bought a Roma pass for 3 days and saved a lot on
public transportation.
You might ask at the hotel if they offer a special rate for "Rick Steves" guests. It worked for me :)

I think all hotels, B&Bs etc are expensive in
Rome.
Frances

Marilou -
Another thought....
I've had several friends stay in convents and they all had excellent experiences. Seems like they are located in several locations in Rome.
Frances

Marilou, have you checked Rick's "Italy" book for accomodations? There are a number of listings there in different price ranges, and in different parts of Rome.

The Termini area is a good area to stay, as it's close to both rail and Subway. On my last visit (a month ago) I stayed in the Trastevere area, and had a great time!

Happy travels!

Marilou,

I'v stayed at Hotel Max a few times. Located right near the train station, clean, safe, staff very nice and helpful.

I'd recommend that you spend some time looking at a map to become somewhat familiar with the area where you want to spend most of your time. Then you should be able to figure out where the various accomodations fit in.

We recently booked the Hotel Palladium Palace which is a stone's throw from Roma Termini.
We stayed there 8 yrs ago, and the staff is very friendly and helpful.

The best rates we could find is from www.gtahotels.com

There is a hotel called Fawlty Towers near there that is pretty basic according to what I've read.

I've stayed at Nicolas Inn near the Coliseum a couple times and would stay there again. Website www.nicolasinn.com.

Thanks for all the suggestions.. i think i have narrowed down to 2 locations: santa maria maggiore and termini..

any thoughts?

also.. can you give me any idea on best way to get from the airport to the termini station? cost? is there a train pass that you can purchase that would be good for the travel to and from the airport but also can be used for travels within rome?

thanks
Marilou

If there is 2-3 people traveling the train is the best option for stay near Termini. If there are more people arrange for a private car like Romecabs.com.