In the City: Rome, Italy

Next month, we’ll be sipping cappuccinos and saying “buon giorno” in Rome, Italy. Rome is the latest city to be added to the Travel Massive famiglia and it’s only fitting – Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world for its ancient history, rich culture, and most sought-after cuisine. But if you haven’t travelled the old Roman road yet, new Travel Massive chapter leader and local Francesca Di Pietro gives you a glimpse of the Eternal City in our In the City series. 

First, congratulations on starting the first Travel Massive event in Rome. Can you tell us about yourself – what is your connection to the travel industry?

I’m a travel blogger.  I started Viaggiare Da Soli, the first blog in Italy about solo travel.  In February, with three other bloggers, we co-founded TBnet, the first Italian travel blogger network organizing travel campaigns based on 2.0 technology. I am also a Travel Psychologist.

That sounds interesting. What is a Travel Psychologist?

I try to give a psychological point of view about how travel can change your personality. I give seminars and travel coaching to people who want to improve their life using travel.

Give us an idea of the personality of your city.

It’s long ancient history gives it old unique character. It’s also town for emotional people with romantic charm at every corner.

What is a local issue the local people want to resolve or improve?

The traffic! It’s exhausting! This city is better for walking.

Best travel tip for visiting your city

Rent a flat.

Best local food or restaurant?

Gelato! You can find a good place in every area! Carbonara and Matriciana are pasta dishes invented in Rome. Also try baccalà, carciofo alla giudia, and abbacchio alla scottadito.

Best local bar?

Duke’s, Caffè Propaganda, and Salotto 42.

Best local neighbourhood to explore and why?

Monti. It’s so bohemian with a lot of great bars and niche boutiques. Pigneto is up and coming, especially during summer nights

Best cultural tradition?

It’s very typical in Rome to go to Piazza Navona to buy sweets on the 6^th of January.  It’s an important catholic holiday with an historic parade starting at the Vatican.

Best spot to get off the beaten track?

Isola Tiberina or Villa Ada.

Best time of year to visit and why?

Spring. Or at least September to October. Summers get super hot!   

Are their any specific words or lingo travellers should know when visiting your city?

In Italian, we say “Grazie” not “Gracias”. Americans always make this mistake and think we speak Spanish. This “pisses us off”!!

Is there a must-have app you recommend for travellers to your city?

Roma Bus. It’s the app that shows you all the public transportation point-to-point. So useful!

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In the City is a monthly series that profiles a unique Travel Massive city around the world.