Rome on a Budget, ITALY
Airing Date: Jul 31st, 2006
They say when in Rome, do as the Romans do but this can be a problem if you don't earn in Euros. The secret to Rome on a Budget is finding out the hidden treasures Rome has to offer with a few must see attractions thrown into the mix.
Vatican City, the world's Smallest City offers an audience with Pope Benedict XVI at St Peters Basilica (The Vatican). The pope addresses the public every Wednesday at 11am. Entry to St Peters basilica is also free but a ticket is required.
For free tickets, tourists can go to the Prefettura Della Casa Pontifica ticket window (through the bronze doors under the colonnade to the right of St Peters) on the Tuesday before the audience or write to Prefettura in advance with your request. If you're lucky you could also pick up tickets on the morning of the audience.
If you don't mind an early curfew when the rest of Rome is still partying, quite a lot religious institutions take in paying guests. Perfect for families who don't mind an early night! You do not have to be a practising Catholic to stay in one of these convents, but be sure to book well in advance as they often cater for groups of students and pilgrims and are heavily booked in summer.
How about trying a traditional Italian meal in a trattoria or taverna? You can experience the local cuisine without paying tourist trap prices. Trattorias are usually open lunch or dinner but if you are going out for dinner, you could try eating before 9pm. The locals are night owls so if you go earlier you won't have to wait for a table and you'll have great service!
Different Types of Eateries:
Ristorante High on prices and mostly upscale.
Trattoria: A step down from a ristorante. They are more moderately priced.
Osteria: Humble establishments that are characterized by simplicity.
Taverna: Similar to an Osteria. A lower-priced trattoria.
Pizzeria: Where pizza prevails.
Enoteca: A wine bar.
But above all the best way to see Rome (and the cheapest!) is a walking tour of the city done at your own pace. Rome's free and most popular sites are the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Colosseum and St Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro).
FURTHER INFORMATION
Air Mauritius - www.airmauritius.com
Return to Milan from: $2015 ex Perth, $2330 ex Melbourne, $2350 ex Sydney.
Prices includes taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Prices correct at 13/7/06.
Al'italia - Ph: 02 9244 2400
Connect to Rome from $348 one way. Prices includes taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Prices correct at 13/7/06
Explore the Roman Monuments Tour - $44 Adults, $34 Kids.
CIT Holidays - Ph: 1300 36 1500, Web: www.citholidays.com.au
Rooms from $85 a person a night twin share. Hotel Romae: www.hotelromae.com
Rooms from $50 a person, a night twin share. Casa Per Ferie Villa Maria - Ph: 0011 39 06 58 52 031
Convent Stays In Rome: www.transitionsabroad.com
REGIONE LAZIO and APT OF ROME (Azienda di Promozione Turistica di Roma): www.romaturismo.it
Italian Government Tourist Office: www.enit.it
