Rome | The City of Eclectic Mix
Lifestyle in Rome centers about being passionate about life and to make even the most ordinary the extraordinary. Simple acts, like enjoying an espresso or unwinding from a busy day with the help of homemade gelato are carried out with affection and devotion.
Eating and drinking at cafes and restaurants in Rome aren’t the only source of entertainment. Modern day Roe is full of cultural affairs, dazzling events and pastimes. Rome’s residents are never short of entertainment as there are always things to see and do.
People initially entranced by the magic of Rome’s architecture and rich history will certainly find that while the city’s past is certainly awe-inspiring, its present is equally invigorating.
Italian designers are synonymous with style and accomplishment. People will find that shopping in Rome is an exquisite experience. Big sales in January and July make these months especially great times to shop around. From big labels to boutique bargains, the city’s side streets and boulevards have it all.
The two biggest shopping streets in Rome are Via del Corso and Via Condotti, which runs from the Spanish steps. Fendi, Prada, Gucci and many other famous brands could be found here.
For those who prefer a more bohemian shopping experience, the area within and around Trastevere and Piazza Navona offers an array of artisanal goods and antiquity shops. Everything from vintage clothing to Roman stamp collections is on display.
Rome may not be the shopping Mecca that Milan claims to be, but people will certainly find fair share of fantastic goods at better prices than cities in the north.
While the city may be better known for its more austere attractions, the nightlife in Rome offers a vibrant alternative for people looking for a night out in the town. With bars and clubs located in the buildings that have been around for centuries, people will often find themselves partying in an interesting atmosphere where nightlife and history occupy the same space.
One of the best-known nightlife areas in Rome, Campo de Fiori, is a square in the city center that is close to the banks of the Tiber. Popular with people, tourists and locals both, there are dozens of bars and restaurants nearby that cater to a wide variety of tastes. It is especially recommended to go around sunset to relax over a drink or two as the tops of the buildings are bathed in a golden aura.
Another popular area is Piazza degli Aurunci, which is situated in the San Lorenzo university district. Frequented by a younger, more alternative crowd, the steps of the piazza are occupied by all types of people gathering to enjoy time with friends and enjoy an affordable night out. Occasionally, there are music and other cultural events that happen around here.
For a more dynamic experience, people should head to Testaccio, which is widely recognised as the city’s clubbing district but also offers some of the best authentic Italian cuisine in the city. As night falls, the district starts attracting dressed-up revelers wanting to dance the night away. People prefering their music to be less electronic will also enjoy some of the areas’ live music venues.
People will be spoilt to choose when it comes to excellent dining options in Rome. Countless authentic Italian eateries line the streets, each with its unique charm and flavor. While restaurants serving classic Italian mainstays like pasta and pizza are plentiful, with a little exploration, there are many hidden gems serving all sorts of exotic cuisine like Thai dishes, Spanish street food or Middle Eastern fare.
There are also plenty of opportunities to pick up artisanal paninis packed with fresh and delicious ingredients at one of the many cafes dotted around the city. Lastly, don’t forget to sample Italian gelato at one of Rome’s many gelaterias.
One tip to bear in mind is to avoid restaurants near tourist attractions as they tend to be busy and overpriced, and the food is often mediocre or worse. There are exceptions to this rule but they are few and far between.
With great weather throughout much of the year, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and make the most of the Eternal City. One of the best ways to get some fresh air and experience the scenic outlying areas of the city is to go for the bicycle ride. Jogging and playing tennis are other popular sports and activities in Rome.
As Rome is filled with football fans, there are ample opportunities to watch a live game. SS Lazio and AS Roma are the city’s most popular football teams and supporting one of these teams will guarantee that expats find local friends among fellow fans.
