ChadWest

Hi there, Lucia here. I’m a travel blogger who dreams of someday moving to Europe. In the meantime, I’m saving for a trip to Rome. Not only do I want to visit this beautiful city; I also want to share my experiences there to others through my blog. I plan to write about Rome and give useful advice to those who read my blog. One thing I’m worrying about is the high rates of hotels in the city. I always read about Rome apartment rentals being a much better choice when it comes to accommodations. Can anyone give recommendations?

Jean

Whether apartments are a "better choice" depends on the traveler and his/her preferences.

There are hotels, B&Bs, convents/monasteries and hostels in all rate ranges in Rome. Some are cheaper than apartments.

If you want useful recommendations, you need to state a budget and, if you know, what areas in Rome you prefer to stay. Also, since rates fluctuate by season, when you think you'd be going.

You can start doing some research of your own here:

http://www.cross-pollinate.com/

http://www.booking.com/
[Use advanced search options to narrow results to your budget.]

As you're searching, don't consider the number of stars given a property by the government to be a reflection of quality. The number of stars relates to the number and type of amenities offered, most of which (like 24/7 room service, on-site gym, parking, conference facilities, etc.) you won't be interested in. Look only for the amenities you actually need/want.

sarge56

Here are two sites for agencies I have used when renting in Rome and Venice. I had no problems with either agency and would happily rent from them again.

SleepInItaly.com and RentalInRome.com

nytraveler

We have never found hotels in Rome to e especially expensive - Scandinavia, Switz and Londn are much more. And, if an apt will work depends on the location and deal you get.

there are ton of posts here with info on reliable agencies.

I'm just not sure how one visit gives you enough experience to blog - unless you're staying a really long time.

bvlenci

Whether you save money by renting an apartment depends a lot on how many people are in your group. Apartments usually sleep at least three or four, and three or four people would spend less than if they had two hotel rooms. One or two people rarely save any money by renting an apartment.

As Jean says, there are lots of inexpensive hotel rooms in Rome. I rarely spend more than 100 euros a night, and often a good deal less.

sarge56

I have to disagree with bvlenci. I have rented many apartments for two and still saved money. Especially when being able to cook my own meals vs eating out, and having a washing machine also saved me money.

It may be true that you will save more when you rent an apartment for 4 vs. 2, but I still think it's worth looking into for 2.

annhig

we have tended to book apartments when travelling with the family, and hotels when by ourselves, but after our experiences on our recent trip "down under" where we often had apartment type accommodation, I'm tending to think that apartments or at least studios are the way to go even when there are just the two of us.

more space, the chance to cook at home, laundry facilities, very often for no more than a hotel room. unless you are using the concierge on a daily basis, there doesn't seem to be a downside.

annhig

sarge - did you get my reply?

bvlenci

I book apartments when traveling with a family group, but I really far prefer a hotel. I end up having to tidy up, wash dishes, shop, clean the bathroom, make the beds, and it's no holiday for me. I wouldn't dream of washing clothes on my vacation, and I enjoy eating in restaurants.

Besides, you have to do a lot more research to find an apartment. In Italy, you generally have to carry a large amount of cash to hand over to the agent on arrival, and you need to make an appointment to meet the agent; they always ask me to call them when I get to the train station (or the airport). I don't like carrying the cash; I live in Italian, and have an Italian cell phone, so the phone call is no problem.

One other thing that bothers me is the the majority of Italian short-term rentals are under the table, and there are often safety issues, some of which I've encountered.

Finally, a hotel front desk performs lots of useful services, like calling you a taxi, holding your luggage for a few hours when you check out, and giving you advice about local shops and services.

kybourbon

>>>you generally have to carry a large amount of cash to hand over to the agent on arrival,<<<

It's no different than many B&B's that expect cash. You don't have to carry it around. Use the ATM.

You can often find B&B's, small hotels or convents at very cheap prices for singles (some convents for 25€). I never see apartments as cheap.

How long do you plan to stay in Rome? Are you traveling alone

Vttraveler

We had good luck with a rental through realrome.com. The prices are very reasonable and the owner is extremely helpful.

bvlenci

Some B&Bs are no different from an apartment, except they have only one room and no cooking facilities, and they give you a coupon for breakfast at a nearby bar. I still prefer a hotel.

nytraveler

I'm still trying to warp my mind about a blog from a first-time visitor who cant even find a place to stay. Who would you be advising on what?

To me the blogger needs to be either 1)a local who knows a lot about the tourist industry or 2) a multi-time visitor who has enough experience to help out a first timer.

Even if you stay a week - how much will you learn???

kleeblatt

This is the internet. Anybody can be anything. No credentials, qualifications or experience required.

kybourbon

Everyone has a blog these days. No experience necessary.