EJ Latitudes 1/08.qxd - Frontiers Elegant Journeys

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ROME IS HOME TO A NUMBER OF 5-STAR
“GRANDE DAME” HOTELS, WHICH WE KNOW
WELL; but if you prefer something a little smaller and
more intimate, consider our two favorite boutique
hotels in Rome.
Rome
Il Palazetto is a lovely new property with just four rooms, most overlooking
the Spanish Steps and directly across the street from its “big
sister,” the Hotel Hassler. The rooms are simple but luxurious, featuring
neutral tones with velvet and satin accents. Il Palazetto’s rooftop
terrace is a magical place to enjoy a glass of Prosecco and magnificent
views of the Eternal City. You sense that you are staying in your
own private residence, a perfect venue for a family or group of
friends. Full signing privileges at the Hassler entitles you to full use of
their facilities and amenities. As a bonus, the International Wine
Academy of Roma is located on the premises and offers wine tasting
courses featuring the best producers in Italy. These informal sessions
provide a unique opportunity to enrich and add luster to your travel
experience; the only participation
requirement is a curiosity and passionate
interest in the heritage of fine
wine and food.
Portrait Suites
Portrait Suites is located off the Via
Condotti and, therefore, in the heart
of historical Rome, the famed shopping
district, and within walking distance
of most major monuments. Part of the Lungarno family of
hotels owned by the legendary Italian Fashion House of Ferragamo,
the property is actually above the Ferragamo storefront. Memorabilia
of Salvatore Ferragamo’s life and career are displayed on the walls
and in the stairways. This little gem features 14 suites and studios.
Portrait Suites’ spacious accommodations are warm and inviting,
contemporary in design, and luxurious. A beautiful rooftop terrace
affords direct views of the Trinita dei Monti, the Spanish Steps, and
the city beyond. The service is very friendly and attentive, making
your stay in Rome unforgettable.
Rome sightseeing tip: If you’re looking for something more “off the
beaten path,” a day trip to Viterbo is a must! Located just north of
Rome, Viterbo is a charming medieval town with laundry hanging
from the windows, brightly colored flowers on the terraces, and narrow
cobbled streets lined with quaint little shops. It is considered
one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Italy and very popular
with film crews in search of authentic atmosphere.
Viterbo is also famous for the trasporto della Macchina di Santa
Rosa, a procession each September 3 commemorating the relocation
of the body of Saint Rosa from the Church of Santa Maria del
Poggio to the Church of San Damiano (the Sanctuary of Santa
Rosa). The Macchina di Santa Rosa is a gigantic, 30-meter structure
which is carried through the streets by a large team of strong local
men. There is a little shop that is completely dedicated to this event,
showing videos of past processions.
Colleen Wiley
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