Who: Larran and Christyl Benford of Aurora
Where: Rome
Beat meal: The Ristorante La Balestra (da Fernando e Caterina). Anything you order on the menu is excellent. My wife loved the veggie soup and said it was No.2 on her list next to her grandmother’s. I, on the other hand, loved the veal T-bone steak. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. We both raved over the ice cream; it was to die for. The waiter, Franco, was very helpful and spoke both English and Italian. He made us feel right at home in a foreign place.
Best deal: The Rome Flea Market. Vendors from all over engage on the street to sell merchandise at a discounted price. You can find some great deals and not have to go very far. Most vendors even set up right around the corner from your hotel.
Best time to go: September through December is usually a good time to go. You can get some great deals in November, but you will try your luck with the weather.
Best travel tip: Take a tour bus the first day, but after that learn the bus system. It will save you a lot of time and money, and you can cover a lot of sights and get the most bang for your buck.
