We’re told it’s a challenge to find a room in Rome without mind numbing noise. But our hideaway apartment in Monti (NYT article about Monti) is silent. Silent. It’s a 10 minute walk to the Colosseum. Good restaurants, specialty food, and wine shops are just down the street. It’s a gem.

We’re staying in one of a few apartments above an ancient Roman palace – built in the 1st century before Christ(!). We pass from the street, through arched wooden doors, to an open-sky courtyard and the front door of our apartment.

The shower is complete with a fellow to judge whether we’ve been doing our sit-ups. (we haven’t)

Daydreaming of your hideaway in Rome? Perhaps you can make one of these delicious Italian dishes to eat while you plan your trip.

• Bolognese Sauce
• Pasta e Fagioli
• Italian Meatballs
• Italian Pasta Salad
• Italian Chopped Salad
• Pasta Aglio e Olio
• Bagna Cauda