Hip Hotel Rome: The Duke Hotel

By Pegah Aarabi

      A true Italian experience can only be achieved with the feeling of family – a large Italian family. But before you object that you don't have any Italian family members – I don't either – you may want to consider a luxury family-run hotel instead. The Duke Hotel Rome, in the prestigious residential area of Paroli, is just what you need to feel at home while on your Roman holiday.

After a long day of sight-seeing there was nothing better than returning to my spacious and quiet room where a hot bath was all I needed to relax. And in case you're prone to being home-sick like I am, the rooms at The Duke Hotel are equipped with all the home comforts, like a bath robe, magazines and a roomy sitting area to read them in. If you really want to treat yourself book any of the five types of suites with a separate living room, but keep in mind, you may never want to leave the room.

Part of The Duke Hotel's charm is its location, which is just outside of the heart of the city. Amongst some of the leading museums - I recommend the Villa Borghese - and sprawling parks, I couldn't help but feel like a native Italian - even though it was my first visit.

But even more welcoming than the residential location and apartment-style suites are the staff at The Duke Hotel. I found myself turning to the front desk – like I would my Italian uncle – for advice on everything from where to visit, to where to eat, to where to shop, and they even helped me get there! A shuttle (a Mercedes at that), was ready and waiting to take me (with up to six other guests) to and from the city centre, every 45 minutes, from morning until night. If that wasn't enough to make me feel like family, the chefs happily accommodated my special requests, such as my steamed rice to soothe motion sickness necessity – just like grandma would!

The homely comforts delighted me, but I was equally impressed by the Duke Hotel's luxury. In the English club-style Polo Lounge is where I enoyed afternoon tea and sweets - a highlight of any vacation. My dinners were accompanied by the sophisticated sounds of a grande piano, and champagne was served as readily as water, because I was family after all. At the Duke hotel, everyone is!

Location: Luxury: Cuisine: Experience:

Check them out online at www.thedukehotel.com