OK, we booked the hotel without a lot of prior knowledge and are way out in the boonies - Jolly Midas, Via Aurelia 800. The good news is that I leave Monday and can't wait. There are four of us, all citywise, most travel-wise, but two are getting their first passport stamps. So, I am seeking any assistance or advice anyone is willing to provide to ease the transition.

First, we expect to leave and be out all day. Can I expect to find a taxi at the last metro stop back to hotel or any metro stop? (The hotel provides a shuttle out).

Second, for the airport limos (that I've seen discussed here) can we book on the ground or do we need to book prior?

Third, does anyone know if the Tiber cruise to Ostia Antica is up and running?

Fourth (I know that I am pushing my luck) any restaurant or wine bar recommendations - looking more for casual spots.

Anyone who takes pity - thanks in advance for your assist.

One of the websites says bus #246 to the city center is 300 mt from the hotel. I would assume it is near metro stop valle aurelia because this site also says transportation to city center - metro. At least you have a pool and ac.

Thanks. Yes, the hotel looks OK, but the travel time is definitely a concern. I will try some mapping queries myself.

AC? Pool open? this early in March?

I'd be surprised.

The five day forecast is 47-54 high; 36-43 low. Yes, Fahrenheit. The weather will be better in Tulsa.

It's still four days out - - are you saying that there is a huge penalty to cancel and re-book? Or budget constraints preventing you from some place closer? Or are you asking for moral support to do that?

You can leave a place after one night, you know.

And yes, I would book that limo/shuttle now, by e-mail. Here are two - - no doubt there are others cited here on this forum somewhere - -

http://www.rome-shuttle.com

and

http://www.romelimousines.com

Best wishes,

Rex

oops! Didn't pay attention to the March part. Limoservicerome.com
You must book ahead so they will be waiting for you.

If you are able to cancel and rebook into another hotel, I'd suggest a search on www.venere.com. Type in your dates and number of people, and it will tell you what's available, and at what cost.

Some places that are might offer you last-minute discounts, if you call the hotel direct and ask for one.

I'm not sure how strong their listings are for Rome, but you might also try searches on laterooms.com and lastminute.com, two sites that specialize in short-notice hotel booking and often have great deals.

Regarding Ostia Antica, I think the cruise is now up and running:

http://www.battellidiroma.it

I would like to try it in May, please let us know if you enjoy the "voyage".

To 1deb2:

People are far more likely to see your "thank you" if you post it as a reply to yourself, HERE on THIS thread:

Author: 1deb2
Date: 03/07/2004, 12:28 pm

Message: Yes, I do not plan on using the pool, but I found her assistance thoughtful -so wasn't going to say anything.

Weather will still be better than Chicago - although now they are calling for rain all week - but that is what you get for booking off season.

As for the hotel, it was part of an Expedia package and penalties are inherent. But you all provide a good thought - and I am currently looking into more convenient hotels with an eye to moving if necessary.

Finally, have looked into the web site for boat to Ostia (english not running on the website - so I got to practice my Italian) It may be a respite - 2 hours to and from and 2 on the ground. Weather permitting, we'll probably try it - so I will let you know how it goes.

And, thanks to all for the assist. This was not the best planned trip - so all info helps.

=====================

Have a great trip. Great planning does not ENSURE a good trip, not its lack necessarily forecast a bad one.