Hello! I'm a single woman and am going to be in Rome in late March early April, traveling on my own. I spent 6 months in Paris on my own several years ago, but I knew French; likewise, I've gone to London several times on my own but that was no problem. <BR> <BR>I'm not so worried about safety (I've read all the warnings and I'm a fairly savvy New Yorker) but more about the logistics of my not knowing the language. Also, will it appear odd if I dine alone, drink wine, etc? Any restaurant recommendations for a solo traveler? I will be staying at the Hotel Navona in the Centro Storico. <BR> <BR>Lastly, this is the best travel discussion forum I've been to. You all sound like very cool people!! <BR> <BR>Cheers, <BR> <BR>Suzanne

I've done Rome and Italy on my own and it was the best trip and vacation of my life. I, too, had traveled to other European cities on my own, and managed fine, also being a fairly savvy NYer. I did know the language and that helps a lot, but being a seasoned traveler and knowing how to take care of yourself counts for a lot more. It WILL appear somewhat odd to dine alone, but not necessarily bad. Just odd. I did it all the time and inevitably would be approached by fellow diners wondering what I was doing eating by myself, or receive extra care from the waiters. But I also found dinner was the best time to keep a journal. Feel free to write me directly if you have other questions.

Hi Suzanne, <BR> <BR>I too am a single New Yorker and have travelled to Italy on my own, with only Berlitz phrasebook/cassette Italian to navigate with. It was more than fine, especially in Rome where practically everyone speaks a little English, and are charmed when you try to speak their language.

I guarantee you that no live woman will be 'alone' in Rome for more than a few minutes--the local guys are not shy!! <BR> <BR>But seriously, there are dozens of advantages to traveling alone. Do a search on this forum for a thread dating a few months back entitled "travel partner horror stories"! <BR> <BR>Finally, I like the title of this thread--I think it could also be the title for the next MacCaulay Caulkin movie! <BR> <BR>

Ralphie is right- you won't be 'alone' for long! The people I encountered in Italy were so gracious and friendly, and I spoke only some rough Spanish which I attempted to convert to Italian. The men are forward but respectful, let them know you are not interested and they leave you alone. A journal or a book is an excellent way to be alone without looking 'lonely.' Have a great time!

I'm another who agrees with Ralphie. The men in Italy are not shy. I traveled alone twice in Italy and spent time in Rome. If you are looking for a possible relationship, you'll find one. Dining alone was never a problem for me, many times other Europeans on travel invited me over to their table, sometimes for Dinner, sometimes for dessert and drinks. My only comment would be to be careful of the gypsies, and don't become a victim of street crime. While I am also from NY originally, the streetcrime in Italy seems to be a bit more inventive. Go and have a wonderful time!!

Thank you for all of your responses!They have been very helpful and I'm excited about my trip. Has anyone heard of the Hotel Navona (where I'll be for 5 nights)? Also, feel free to keep passing on more tips on Rome Alone, too -- I'm an information junkie! <BR> <BR>cheers <BR> <BR>suzanne

Suzanne -- I spent a week in Rome by myself a year ago and had a great time. One specific restaurant I can recommend is the Fiaschetteria Beltramme, Via della Croce 39, not far from the Spanish Steps. It is a very bare bones place that I probably would have passed right by if a friend hadn't recommended it. As he had told me, the food was great -- very homey, not fancy. The added bonus for me was that the host seated me at a large square table where he seated other people who were alone, so I ended up not only having a delicious meal (of pasta e ceci -- pasta and chickpeas) but having company as well. I felt very safe in Rome, and was glad that I didn't feel as if I had to be home by dark (particularly this time of year), so that I could have a nice dinner and, often, stop for gelato on my way home (notwithstanding the cold temperatures!). Obviously, you have to be careful, and maybe I was lucky, but I didn't have any problems. I haven't stayed at the Navona, but it's in a great location. You'll have a great time! Please feel free to email me if you have any specific questions.

Suzanne-- <BR>I'm hoping you have returned by now and can give me some pointers on travelling alone--I've never done it before, but I'm very excited to be going to Rome, Florence and Tuscany this August/Sept. I'm fairly savvy (although not a New Yorker), but could still use advice. Thanks and I hope you had a wonderful time!

This is for Sara--I think you'll get lots of information if you do your own separate posting like "1st trip to Italy alone-need advice".