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is scheduled to last 2 1/2 years. Visitors under 18 and over 65 are admitted free of charge, while the rest of us pay €15. Rome has nearly 2,000 hotels, so finding accommo- dation should not be difficult. Restaurants are everywhere, as Romans love to eat. Don’t be fooled by their casual attitude, when it comes to food they are pickier than most. The city centre caters to tourism and it is easy to fall into “tourist traps”. | try and find places filled with locals and am usually assured —— of an excellent cuisine. ‘ = . re are hundreds of restaurants offering fare which ranges from traditional Roman dishes to exotic menus from all over the globe. There are possibilities for every pocket and for every mood. You can stroll amongst countless pizzerias, hip spots and popular eateries called “trattories”, where it is not uncommon to find a stereotypical “mama” making fresh handmade pasta. Another enjoyable pastime is to visit the wine bars and nibble while en- joying a glass of wonderful Italian wine. Many of the museums now offer passes, which are good for multiple visits to different locations, allowing you to see the top attractions at affordable prices. Keep in mind that Rome is an older city and access to subways, as well as many buildings may only be by stairs. A few things to remember — June or July are the busiest months. A two-hour trip to the Vatican can become a full-day event with most of your time shuffling be- hind hundreds of other sightseers. The summer months are extremely hot and humid so they should be avoided if ‘Sunset fails on the Colosseum in Rome possible. and much less expensive than any other form of transporta- Pickpockets are numerous and are found in the tion. metros and at tourist attractions. Most of these people Beware when you take photographs. Ask before you are gypsies who have entered Italy illegally. Beware, for snap and should someone be dressed as a gladiator in the nothing is sweeter than a small child offering you arose _—_Vicinity of the Colosseum, be assured that it will cost you to for free when suddenly an adult shows up demanding take their photo. money. All in all, Rome is an amazing city and well worth the Avoid bus N64, as it is internationally known for pick- visit. It's a place I’ve been several times and will always wel- pockets and purse snatchers. Always be aware of your come the opportunity to go back to. | was pleased to see the surroundings, do not be fooled by the most sincere ‘hard Colosseum make the new list of Seven Wonders of the World luck’ stories and never carry money or jewellery openly. as it is an amazing architectural feat and very hard to believe Only change your currency at the bank and beware of is ever 2000 years old. unmarked taxis. The transit system in Italy is wonderful Arrivederci, baby. 40 FOCUS - JUNE 2011 JUNE FOCUS. 40 pages.indd 40 5/24/11 9:00:20 AM