Erica's Jetsetter Picks

Description:

When in Rome, why not drive as the Romans do? HR Tours offers a unique way to see the city - in vintage Italian cars and motorbikes from the '60s and '70s. Hop inside a Fiat, Alfa Romeo or Autobianchi, or hop on a vintage Vespa or Lambretta for a group tour or individual drive in and around the city. HR Tours has a variety of experience working on corporate outings and small, private tours. So, if you're looking to have a complete event organized for your, from start to finish, or if you're just eager to grab the keys and go, HR Tours has a number of different options in vintage fashion.

Description:

This refined and elegant hotel is housed in a magnificent 17th century building that first belonged to the De Fonesca family. It was re-opened in 1990 after 13 years of closure and a six-year restoration period by architect Portoghesi. Situated close to the Pantheon, it is very central, and there is a splendid view of the city from the roof garden. The guest rooms have every comfort and are tastefully decorated using elegant French fabrics. In the main hall is a statue of the goddess Minerva (created in 1850), and her reflection can be seen in the white marble flooring with its yellow swirls.

Description:

Want to truly immerse yourself in Rome's expansive history? Why not join a educational excavation? The American Institute for Roman Culture (AIRC) has been promoting and preserving Rome through cultural heritage projects, educational programming and public outreach for years, and now they are offering excavation and conservation projects, and educational programs to the general public. With almost over 27 centuries of constant development, Rome is one of the richest archaeological sites in the world. The AIRC wants to help preserve the city's art and architecture, and offers lay archaeologists the chance to dig in.

Description:

The Ancient Romans were big believers in the healing properties of baths, and following that tradition are the owners of AcquaMadre Hammam-- an authentic Roman bathing experience with upscale, modern amenities. Bathers start off in the changing room (apodyterium) and proceed to the warm bath (tepidarium) where the temperatures reach a balmy 98°F. From there, you head to the steam room (calidarium) where you will experience a real "steam bath" with 100% humidity and temperatures reaching upwards of 114°F. Following the hot baths you'll take a plunge into the relatively chilly cold bath (frigidarium) which acts as a skin and muscle toner at 82°F. The AcquaMadre Hammam offers also offers massages, exfoliating treatments, and spa days exclusively for women, couples, and even kids.

Description:

Occupying what used to be the courtyard of the 16th-century Palazzo Medici Lante della Rovere, Casa Bleve focuses on lavish wine-and-dine. With the finest wine in town and gourmet lunch to cookies and desserts from Sicily, this is one place to visit if splurge is an option for you. Also do visit the wine cellar to take in the sights of the best brewed wine which is rented out for private events. Come to the Casa Bleve to sample some Italian delights and satiate your taste buds.

Description:

Visiting Rome for the first time, visitors must experience the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican structure with 50 million monthly visitors. The Chapel was built between 1477 and 1481 by Pope Sixtus IV. From 1480 to 1483 the walls were decorated by famous artists of Renaissance, such as Botticelli, Perugino, Ghirlandaio. After twenty years, Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to decorate the ceiling in 1508. Today, after the restoration, tourists can visit the chapel and see Michelangelo's 'Last Judgement'. The Vatican has placed its enormous art collection on the Web in hopes that it will attract more tourists. The site allows visitors to take a virtual reality tour of some of the dozen museums and galleries that make up the Vatican collection, viewing Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with a three-dimensional video. At the Chapel, you will invariably find it crowded with hundreds of tourists, so be prepared. The best way to see it is to go to the Vatican Museums early, so that you're among the first in line when they open. Silence should be observed and photography is not prohibited.

Our Local Expert Says:

Ask about the Notte di Gladiator-- an ancient Roman orgy of fighting and food

Description:

Master the basics of hand-to-hand combat at a genuine gladiator school on the ancient Appian Way. You'll discover the secrets of Imperial Rome's gladiator games, get hands-on with ancient Roman history and have the best fun you can imagine!

During your two-hour lesson, your gladiator instructor will teach you how to fight with authentic weapons used by the gladiators of ancient Rome. Lessons are organized and led by members of the Historic Group of Rome who specialize in the re-enactment of Roman life and gladiatorial combat.

Don't miss this opportunity to re-create Roman history and life as a gladiator. Dressed in a traditional gladiator tunic, belt, leather protective glove and rudis (training sword), you can let your imagination run wild as you play like Spartacus for a day, fighting off ferocious lions and sword-wielding warriors!

Next, learn the basic techniques of gladiatorial sword fighting and take part in an optional gladiatorial tournament, with the winner receiving a victory prize. All participants receive a certificate of accomplishment.

Are you up to the challenge of this truly Roman experience combining culture, sport and ancient legends?!

Our Local Expert Says:

While soccer games can be a fun family event, make sure to request seating in a "family friendly" zone since fights between the rival teams are very common.

Description:

Sports nuts and Italian football fans from all over the world should not miss a chance to catch a match at the Olympic Stadium. Home to AS Roma Football, the stadium holds 82,000 fans and hosts numerous national and international sporting events. Be sure to check out AS Roma's website for game schedules and ticket information.

Description:

Soar over the Roman countryside, skim the tops of the Italian Alps, and fly around the outskirts of Rome in a helicopter. Elinoleggi arranges excursions from several helipads in Italy, whether you're interested in a tour, or just want to get to your destination without dealing with ground transportation. This is an unparalleled experience.

Description:

International critics consider la Pergola the best restaurant in Rome for its outstanding menu by Heinz Beck and its superb view of Rome, from the precipice of Monte Mario. Nouvelle cuisine which changes seasonally and to Beck's whim caters to the glitterati of gastronome elite. The atmosphere and setting is elegant-- tromple l'oeil, marble, and masterpieces, and service is beyond exemplary. According to Frommers, the staff functions so beautifully they've been compared to a Viennese orchestra.

Though the menu changes seasonally, the water menu does not. Take a look, its definitely worth the wait.