Touring in Rome

[texas bound]

Our time in Rome before and after our 10 day cruise was such an experience.

 

We flew in a day early to tour the Vatican spending the night at the Best Western Spring House. It was such a nice hotel. In all of the emails they were very helpful. Getting in very early, they stored our luggage while we toured the Vatican. The hotel arranged pick-up from the airport and the next day taking us to the port. They were on time and very helpful.

 

From reading Rick Steve's books, I found a tour company CBM (Can't Be Missed). Every email was responded to quickly. Stefano met us at the Vatican as arranged. He spent several hours with us showing us the Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica as well as the Sistine Chapel. You could tell he was very knowledgeable from giving tours for 15 years.

 

The day returning from the cruise we were picked up by a company arranged by our hotel (Hotel Rex). The two gentlemen were a little late and offered no reason or apology. They didn't speak at all on the 1 1/2 hr ride to the hotel. The same company took us to the airport the next day but we had different drivers and they were much better. They pointed out places on the way and made sure we arrived at the airport in plenty of time.

 

The Hotel Rex was built in 1887 and was an authentic Italian hotel. The rooms were quite large, the beds were comfortable and the bathrooms were clean. The breakfast the next morning was a typical Italian breakfast.

 

Both hotels were in walking distance (approx. 10-15 min.) of the Vatican & Colosseum.

 

Our guide for the Colosseum and the Forum was also very knowledgeable. He told little stories which helped me to remember things about the places we were looking at.

 

I would definitely recommend the hotels, the transportation and the tour guides.

[TXGalAJ]

Great info, thanks!