Savuer Picks the Mediterraneo Hotel
Check out the recent feature, Eternal Pleasures, in Savuer, (4/10), by Anya Von Bremzen. She writes about her recent journey of rediscovery of Roman
iconic dishes that are being revitalized by younger generations of chefs. She has several great restaurant recommendations. Where to start? Try Felice's in the Testaccio area, in south central Rome, with their cacio e pepe, the classic peppery pasta dish made new with "exhalted ingredients and sharper cooking techniques." Where to stay while seeking all the culinary pleasures? Anya suggests the moderately priced, Mediterraneo Hotel, 15,Via Cavour.
Bettoja Rates and Packages
Bettoja hotels has spring and summer Gourmet Packages, a minimum 2 night package that includes daily breakfast, one dinner per person, tax and service. Perfect for pre/post cruise stays and short visits to Rome. Staying 4 days? Put two packages together and get 2 dinners per person.
The Bettoja Hotels, family owned and managed properties for 5 generations, have 4 hotels in center Rome and one outside Florence. They are known for their service, spacious rooms, high ceilings, excellent food, 2 roof top bar/restaurants with fabulous views, 24 concierge service fitness rooms, quads and more. All the Rome hotels are centrally located, three on Via Cavour on Esquiline Hill, the highest of the Seven Hills of Rome, easy walking distance to the Coliseum Opera House, Piazza Republica, Via Veneto, Spanish Steps and the termini. In April, the Gourmet Package rates for two start at 175E for a double room at the Nord Hotel*** to 220E at the Hotel Mediterraneo ****1/2, respectively.
Want to work off some pasta, get hands-on with ancient Roman history and have some great fun? Go to Gladiator School.
During a two-hour lesson, a gladiator instructor reveals the imperial secrets of gladiator combat and 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. Students don authentic battle gear and learn the skills of the net, shield, trident and more...If you want to view but not partake in the action, there is a viewing platform, free of charge for the faint of heart. Prices start at $75.00 per person.
All rooms and packages can be booked on on-line on the www.bettojahotels.it website, calling 800-783-6904 or your travel agent.
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Try Obika, Rome's first Mozzarella Bar. In a recent issue in T&C magazine, Suzanne Gannon writes about a chain of restaurants dedicated to mozzarella di buffalo and other delights. Styled after the ubiquitous Japanese sushi bars, Obika means "here it is", in native Neapolitan dialect. The mozzarella bars celebrate ingredients rather than high- profile chefs. Good choice to start is the three-cheese tasting menu. There are two locations in Rome and one in Florence
Ristorante Gigilo, Via Torino 137, offers good traditional cuisine from Tuscany in an informal atmosphere. 35/40 E per person. Five minutes walking distance from the hotels off Via Cavour.
Surrounded by charming gardens bordering a 14th century monastery, the Relais Certosa is 15 minutes by courtesy bus to the Ponte Vecchio. Perfect for families and those that want Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside at their doorstep. A villa-like full service country hotel, the Relais has a pool, tennis courts, free parking, several eating venues, including the " Veranda." In April, Gourmet Package rates for two start at 165E for a classic double..



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