Rome as if it were your own hometown

(by albertina lourenci)

Luca's place enables you to appreciate the art of traditional city-making in Europe. As soon as you arrive, he is there to welcome you right on the lovely two-block street that creates the impression of two cul-de-sac street. You go up to the second floor to enjoy the nice proportions of the spacious apartment and the view of the beautiful façades of the low-rise buildings in front with climbing plants. From the window, you can also "join" Italians eating in the restaurant in the hotel across the street as well as enjoy the passers-by.

Indeed a far cry from a stay in a hotel. In the fridge, you can enjoy the well selected Italian delicatessen Luca chose for you to feel at home after a long trip. Lovely shops within walking distance for you to enjoy the local grocery products as well as the famous hand-made Italian pasta.

In a well equipped kitchen, he introduces you to the best of Italian cuisine if you wish. You will never forget the beautiful 4 piece multi-panel white rose canvas picture painted by Massimo Catalani, his friend, in the living room. Its perfection reminded me of the Delft rose fountain built by Frank Gehri at Dysney Concert Hall in LA.
His warmth does not cease even if he has to follow up delayed baggage for 36 hours to be sure it will be delivered and keeps in touch with you, cheering you up.

The location is excellent for your voyage in time. At one end of the street you go up to the Margherita Bridge and the wonderful walk along the banks of the Tiber with its awesome hanging platani. The ruins or ancient monuments create that impression of eternity in Rome. It is unbelievable the feel of wilderness along the banks of Tiber. Italians integrate nature and culture as hand and glove. The closed piazzas teeming with life create the perfect balance for you to experience Rome as an alive organism. Feeling lost? Never.
Easily you see the Egyptian Obelisk from the Piazza del Popolo to return home safely at the other end of the street.
Or you may wander around this Piazza and visit Vila Borghese or Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

If you wish to travel in time further, Luca advises you to cross Piazza del Popolo and take the Metro and train all the
way down to Ostia Antica: a better Pompeii. Or to Florence, an hour and a half away.