I had never been to Rome before and really am not a very well seasoned world traveler. Moreover I am not really very good at picking a place to stay off the web but on this one I struck gold. I happened to have found it through Orbitz after making a pretty cheap air ticket and something maybe me giggle about the name. When I looked at the photos I wasn't overwhelmed but reasoned because of proximity to public transit it was the best for this first timer.
Casa di Rosy is not elegant, well appointed, is a on busy street and is hard to find the first time. Not a lot sounds promising here BUT all that will be explained.
It is three short blocks to Termini Roma, which is the main train station to all of a Italy and most importantly to the Airport on the Leonardo Express. Aside from that Termini is the juncture of the two subway lines that cross Rome. Sooner or later you will go through Termini so why not make the area home.
There are TONS of cheapo eateries, two great groceries near by, coffee bars, restaurants (our fave being Trattoria Monti - two blocks from Casa di Rosy). Yes, it is GROTTY around Termini at night but it is bustling and alive in the day and fun to watch and walk through. It is really alive with commerce and activity.
Anyway...Rosy is a very comfortable and very affordable friendly place. The people that work there keep to themselves but are eager and willing to help if asked. The street may be noisy in the day but at night it isn't. WHY do I need a bedroom to stay in during the day? in Rome? I spent every day here and night out!! This was a great bed, nice hot and pressurized shower, perfectly fine mattresses, clean and VERY AFFORDABLE.
IMPORTANT: When coming from Termini go three blocks to V. Napoleone and turn left. The B&B is on the 3rd floor of a non-descript apartment building shared with other B&B's and families. The buzzer is tiny...there is no sign on the street. But the double wooden doors (typical for the city and neighborhood) are right next to a Bar Gastronomia. Ring the bell and they will buzz you in. YES, the is an elevator.
I will stay here again while I get to know Rome...maybe someday I can afford a more luxurious place or a villa but when in Rome be with the Romans (and MILLIONS of tourists).
Rosy is two stops from the Colosseum, 8 or so stops from the Vatican.
Sa'ad (also known as Mimmo) is the caretaker and manager at times and very friendly.
By the way...I don't think Rosy's coffee is very good but right downstairs next door is a bar that makes a lovely cuppa.
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