The word from the fashionable streets of Rome is that it’s not the cheapest of destinations.
In fact, it’s not that much of a rumor any more. Rome has quite the reputation for burning money, and was rated as the 18th most expensive city in the world for 2009. This prompted us to investigate a little to see if the budget conscious traveler. could enjoy the city. And the answer? A very welcome yes. All it takes is few tricks really. And we’re sharing them with you right here.
Where to Sleep – This is a major expense for most travelers, but especially so if you’re keeping an eye on the purse strings. So, instead of relying on an overcrowded backpackers or a couch in a friend’s friend’s cousin’s apartment, try booking yourself a room in a monastery or convent. Might sound weird, but they offer you possibly some of the most affordable accommodations in the city, including all the amenities you need in a comfortable and safe environment. Most accommodation options are single-sleeping and available to both men and women. We do suggest inquiring about curfews before booking, which is not uncommon practice amongst most monasteries and convents. Hit the internet to find out where to book.
How to stay in touch – The outgoing dialing code from Rome is 00 followed by the relevant country code. The calls made from hotels can be quite expensive as they might have a surcharge. It is generally cheaper to use a calling card,which are available at newsagents and tobacconists. Public telephone booth accept phone cards for local and international calls. VOIP is used more these days, that allows you to make PC to PC calls free of charge or for very little cost. Also, there are internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.
Where To Shop – If there is one thing that will blow a budget in Rome, it’s the shopping. So to keep the costs down, but not compromise on the amount of stuff you can get, head off to Porta Portese market on a Sunday between early morning and 1pm. Bargains are abound, but a little negotiation will get you even more. The market is dedicated to clothes (both new and vintage, second hand), but you can even find great gems like books printed in 1835.
Where to Party – To keep costs down and the party going try hitting the American run and owned, The Drunken Ship. This bar cum restaurant, is built on the premise of offering foreign visitors the ultimate party at a low sum. Located in Campo de’ Fiori, The Drunken Ship is rife with student specials and happy hours virtually everyday. Get there between 3-6pm for a particular happy hour that gives you specials on beer, cocktails and shooters along with a free buffet of gourmet food.
Also try Bar San Calisto located a stone’s throw away from Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. This little place acts like a coffee-house during the day, only to bring down the house at night. Try their more-than-affordable glasses of wine from €1.40, or local beer from €1.50.
All in all, to keep costs down in Rome, it’s merely a matter of being sensible. There will be some instances when avoiding the city’s expensive taste, will more difficult, but you should always try to offset the costs. For example, use public transport instead of cabs and save for little treasures you will find along the way – this from a budget conscious traveler.
