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            Welcome to Been there. Your tips on the places you know - that you love,
            live in or have just visited - are what make this guide.
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                <title>Leisure in Rome Apartment Bellotto</title>
                
                <link>http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/24075</link>
                
                <description><![CDATA[Normally I stick with hotels but I've heard really great things about apartment rentals and so maybe a year or so ago decided to try them too. Obviously there is no reception desk, concierge you can pester with your every query, and though apartments come stocked with all one needs, you do need to buy your own supplies (hand soap, shampoo, toilet paper - at least if you need more than three rolls for a week). <br><br>Still, apartments are often just as central, lovely, and as well managed and stocked as hotels with the added benefit of complete privacy which I find extremely attractive. <br><br>Besides that, I find (now that I frequent rentals more), apartment keyholders are usually bi- or trilingual and very helpful at explaining all in the area/apartment, which is definitely a higher degree of service than one gets checking into the average B&amp;B/hotel. <br><br>Anyway, Bellotto was the right place at the right time, enhanced by the fact the agency responded quickly (normally these things take like 2-3 days if you're not using a major agency like Venere, but I like the personal attention to be honest), and in English, since my Italian is functional but very sad when written. <br><br>For two people this studio was absolutely perfect. It's a 10 minute walk from St. Peter's and a 10 minute bus ride from Piazza Navona, and buses come every 10 minutes or so. Walking is only half an hour anyway. The kitchenette is perfect for simple things because I don't really need an oven on holiday and everything important is there, and we were on the top floor, with an elevator, which I know is quite difficult to find on a budget in the absolute historic centre. I actually liked this neighbourhood better since it's more the way real locals live, the prices they pay, bus service is frequent, and the peace and quiet simply can't be beat. Nor can the lovely little balcony, which is totally secluded and private, so it's a wonderfully peaceful place. I also like the bright colours in the studio, uniqueness is always welcome! <br><br>The agency who booked us was fabulous and helpful, and I was glad to see they work with such wonderfully responsible owners who are soooooo very helpful. They live across the hall and the top floor is private, just their apartment and ours, and the floor itself is only accessed by a key, so it's very very secure and no worries about thieving maids or people in general. Perfect, lovely, and convenient, this apartment is amazing for any single person or couple that wants some unforgettable time in the Eternal City.]]></description>
                
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                <title>Borgo Tre Rose</title>
                
                <link>http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/24073</link>
                
                <description><![CDATA[Montepulciano itself is a wonderful base for day trips throughout the region, and it really struck me since it's not as touristy and packed as many other places feel.  It's still got its fair share of travellers, but it's not as stifling as say, Venice can be.  <br><br>The scenery is straight from a fairy tale and the cuisine is beyond even that.  Mix that with some architecture, and the destination is already perfect.  <br><br>Perfect places are made more memorable by perfect places to stay, and this place took the cake on my last trip.  It used to be a small village actually, but was remodelled as a hotel with all the modern amenities - yet it still has that homey-country feel, almost as if a well loved relative prepared everything exactly to your liking before check in.  <br><br>Quiet, friendly, and absolutely beautiful with a terrace to take it all in, Borgo Tre Rose has relax written all over it and it's exactly what I wanted.  The reception desk isn't 24-hour, but that's ok because at least they tell you.  Get all your questions in by 19:30 (it closes at 20:00, so why make a poor receptionist suffer by prattling on at 19:55?....obviously they'll still help you then though, as I found when I needed a phone number urgently) and they're helpful as ever, with warm friendly smiles to boot.  <br><br>For moments when you're not relaxing, the washing machine and internet point are really really convenient and to relax after all that, there are actually hot springs nearby (S. Albino).  <br><br>Anyway, a great stay in a great place, and if you have a little more time than I usually do, look into regional wine tastings!  Superb!]]></description>
                
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