Questions About Rome Answered

If it’s your first visit to Italy and you have your design hotel in Rome booked, you may have a few nagging worries about aspects of your trip to the Eternal City. Here we’ll try and deal with some of them.

How safe is the city?

It’s almost impossible to compare crime statistics between major cities because there are so many variables involved. However, the Italian capital should not offer any more problems, on average, than any other major European capital and mass tourism destination. Of course, it’s almost inevitably the case that certain criminals will target tourists, and that can happens in London Paris or Rome. It only makes sense to take certain precautions, such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash on you or drifting into deserted alleys and so on at odd hours. Use a money belt and avoid handbags - use a strapped shoulder bag instead.

What’s the public transport like?

Reasonably good in theory, but remember that buses and trains can be exceptionally busy at peak times and Italians generally aren’t great respecters of queues; be prepared to stand your ground and push back if necessary. In terms of specifics, the staff at your design hotel in Rome will be happy to offer advice for their own particular local area.

What are the problems I’ve read about with people in ancient Roman costume?

This has been hugely exaggerated in the press by and large but there have been a few incidents so, to explain:

Around certain locations, such as the Coliseum, you may see people dressed in ancient Roman (often Legionary) costumes. They are there to pose in photographs with tourists. Please remember that these are private individuals doing this for a living and at their own expense. If you’re including them in your group photos they will expect to be paid and not simply given a warm handshake by way of thanks. In the past, when some tourists have refused to offer a payment, there have been some issues. This is very common all over the world and not restricted to this city. If you wish to include these people in your photographs, simply ask and agree a price in advance. The government has recently cracked down on such colourful folk, though, and you might not see them so often anymore.

Just how hot is it?

In July and August it can be very hot, with temperatures into the 30s Celsius. Public buildings, restaurants and many a design hotel in Rome will be air-conditioned, but the streets, of course, won’t be. If you are very sensitive to heat it might be sensible to plan a journey in spring or autumn.

Are the major public attractions always open?

Yes and no. Opening hours may vary by season and it’s also worth keeping in mind that sometimes even the most famous sites may be closed for restoration or refurbishment.

There is no easy answer to this other than to check with the local tourist board or alternatively, the staff of your design hotel in Rome will be able to advise you in advance of the opening hours of the major attractions.

Looking for a great hotel in Rome? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering top class accommodation in a design hotel in Rome, as well as a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.