Leaving Italy at 7AM in late October means I have to be at Fiumicino by 4 AM (!), which probably won’t even be light at that time of year. I was going to stay near the Statione Termini in Rome my last night but notice that there don’t seem to be any trains for the Airport till after 6 AM, although I think there may be some buses. Was thinking of staying in Ostia instead and taking in the archaeological site the day before I leave instead of going back to Rome after Amalfi Coast. Any thoughts about that? How do they compare with Pompeii and Paestum? Or is farewell to Rome worth the aggravation.

Hello Dorothy,<BR><BR>Are you dependant on public transport to FCO? If so your only option if you decide to stay in Rome is a night bus from Tiburtina Station - or a limo.<BR><BR>If you choose to stay near the airport, - yes, Ostia Antica is certainly worth a visit. <BR><BR>Steve

I will try again, since my post did not appear that I posted here.<BR><BR>We stayed at Airport Palace Hotel in Ostia and loved it. It is walking distance from train from Rome Center, and they have a free shuttle to airport (very short ride). We did not sightsee in OStia, just checked into hotel around 8 pm, had dinner and a good night sleep, and headed right to airport in morning.

Ostia Antica ruins were the highlight of my trip to Rome. The ruins are extensive and in a beautiful, peaceful setting. You are free to wander as long as you like, and strolling through ancient shops and houses transports you back in time. Do it!<BR><BR>- Alice

I loved Ostia Antica. We met people there who said it was better than Pompeii.

Thanks for the replies. I looked for my message the next day and couldn’t find it through any search, so figured I had blown it somehow. <BR><BR>I also searched under Fiumicino, Ostia, and a few other words and found some very discouraging postings about the hotels and general character of those areas. On the other hand, someone recommended I look at Slowtrav.com ‘s departure suggestions, which may date from 4-5 years ago, and *they* referred to some of the same hotels as very pleasant. I am not particularly timid, but I am a woman traveling alone. I like to eat well and not feel too inhibited by my surroundings. Has there been a major change of scene in the last few years, or do the places I can afford - and like - to stay at (about 50 Euros a night) just seem unattractive to people who are used to more antiseptic travel?