Hip Hotel Rome: The Exedra Hotel

By Pegah Aarabi

      If you've ever wanted to know what its like to travel like a celebrity, there's nowhere better to experience the lifestyle of the rich and famous than in the city synonymous with romance, sophistication and style: Rome. On my Roman holiday, I looked no further than Hotel Exedra, a Boscolo Luxury Hotel, to have it all.

When I walked into the lobby, I instantly felt like a star filming my latest European hit – maybe a romance. The grand chandeliers and marble floors are just a hint of what awaits you inside each room.

High ceilings, modern décor, a separate dressing area with lots of closet space, and a marble bathroom that would satisfy the toughest critic (myself of course) are all designed to make you feel like a VIP. Even if you don't have a personal assistant on hand, the hotel ensures no small touch is forgotten from fluffy slippers to a "comfort kit" with all the essentials – even my often forgotten make-up remover.

To continue with the awe-inspiring feeling, Hotel Exedra is in itself an attraction, located on the Piazza della Republica and built over the remains of Diocletian's 3rd-century baths (a must-see site). And when you're done touring the hotel, you can visit any of the other major Roman attractions. Around the corner is Nazionale St., a shopping haven that leads to the Colosseum. Also nearby are the famous Spanish Steps and Via Veneto, a street full of restaurants and designer shops - yes Exedra is a very shopping friendly destination!

After a full day of sight-seeing (foreign shops ARE sights), retreat to the Hotel Exedra rooftop pool and restaurant. There you can try a delicious dish infused with local tastes, including my favorite, asparagus fettuccini. And to complete your day (and begin your night) order a drink and watch the sunset over the seemingly endless pool that meets the horizon. A perfect ending scene to my luxurious Roman holiday.

Location: Luxury: Cuisine: Experience:

Check them out online at www.boscolohotels.com