The Eternal City of Rome

They call Rome the Eternal City and it’s definitely a favourite with holidaymakers, religious or not. We landed at Leonardo da Vinci, (also known as Fiumicino) Airport and made a bee line for our hotel. We used http://www.inromehotels.com/ and were so pleased with our accommodation which was a stone’s throw away from the Colosseum of Gladiator fame. The area was very lively and welcoming.

Our tour guide, whom we had booked through http://www.inrometoday.it/ took us to the magnificent St Peter’s Square with its Cathedral and the Vatican. We visited the Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo confirmed our perception of beautiful art; the timeless Roman Forum which was the commercial, political and religious centre of ancient Rome; we turned our backs to the Trevi fountain and made a wish, then visited the Pantheon; built in 27 BC, and rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in 120 AD. It is one of Rome's best-preserved ancient monuments and has an extraordinary dome; the largest masonry vault ever built.

My favourite night spot was in the lovely Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, which is the area's heart. We also found a great restaurant through http://www.inrometoday.it/restaurants/index.htm This was definitely an unforgettable holiday and one that I’ll treasure for a long time to come.