I am travelling w/ 4 other people and we are spending a couple of days in Rome and in Venice in mid-March. Do we need to book the hotel rooms now? If so, any suggestions on clean, semi-inexpensive hotels? Any suggestions will be helpful!

Of course you should book now if you're going to be there in a month!!! As far as which hotel, there have been dozens of suggestions daily. Since you didn't mention what your budget is (semi-inexpensive can mean a lot of different things)I would suggestion you do a search on this board for Venice and Rome hotels and also go to www.venere.com and search for hotels in all price ranges and locations. Also, if you'll just scan through the last 50 or so messages on this board you'll probably see a dozen or more suggestions.

Not necessary! My husband and I spent the 1st 2 weeks in Northern Italy last May and never had a reservation. We stayed when we felt like it and moved on when we felt like it. A great way to travel.

That depends on what the sleeping arrangements are. I bet it's much easier to find a room for 2 than a larger party. I too travelled without reservations for 2 weeks, but I wouldn't recommend it in Venice, especially if she's trying to stay on a budget.

As you're traveling to Rome and Venice, reservations are a must. In particular, Venice --- others have asked about inexpensive accommadations, and even during what you'd think are less popular times of year, budget hotels get booked up. Do advise of what price range you'd prefer.