Copyright Erica Firpo
Planning a city break in Rome? Read on for a hassle free guide to planning a Roman holiday from our travel expert and Roma native, Erica Firpo.
A weekend in Rome can be the perfect getaway. The historic centre is a pedestrian’s dream as all major monuments are within walking distance, and span the nearly three-thousand year history of the city where every corner has something to offer.
It’s important to keep your eyes open in Rome. Rome has layers of living history. Senators, generals, emperors, popes and dictators have all left their mark on its urban design – rendering Rome a hodgepodge of visual artefacts—from ancient bridges and monuments to churches and even 21st century architecture. Since “all roads lead to Rome”, it’s safe to assume that everything radiates out from the historic centre so pick a monument as a reference to begin exploring the Eternal City.
The Best of the Best of the Costa Brava
Photo courtesy of Jaume Meneses
Suzanne Wales gives you the low-down on the absolute best of beach holidays in the Costa Brava – We do the research on the review sites so you know exactly where to go and what to do on your holiday.
If it’s endless stretches of golden sand you are after, the Costa Brava may not be your scene. But if literally hundreds of lapis-coloured coves sound appealing, then step right along to the ‘craggy coast’. Many regular travellers to the Costa Brava prefer sunbathing at its calas, and they have a point – the rocks keep the water crystal clear and their reduced size keeps the bucket and spaders well at bay. (Instead, they head to resorts such as Roses and Lloret de Mar, which are built around long beaches.)
Smaller beaches are a feature of the villages, as the sand facilitates bringing traditional fishing boats to shore. But intrepid travellers tend to bypass those and follow the coastal roads and paths to their pebbly piece of paradise. You’ll need a car to explore the region in depth, though you could do fair chunks by bus (Sarfa Buses) if you base yourself in a major destination such as Palamós or Palafrugell and are prepared to walk.