"Alternative Rome" a Rome Travel Page by scanos

Arriving in in Rome in April 2006, we found ourselves in the middle of a heavy political electioneering efluvium. There were posters everywhere covering the political spectrum, from Communism to Mussolini'sm'. Italians seem to take politics almost as serious as football. That said, everyone seemed relaxed with the various shades on offer which characterises the maturity of this democracy. I suppose the cathartic political process took place with the expunging of Julius in the Ides, leaving everyone to seek excitement in other areas - food, wine and the games!

We stayed in a great hotel near CorseTrieste, a couple of miles from Piazza republicca. We took the opportunity to socialise with the locals in Piazza Istria. We found them very friendly and corteous. In the cafes, the food was great and cheap. Another advantage is that the clothes are very cheap - with decent suits ranging from 100 euros.

The locals seem to indulge in spremuti d'arancia (freshly squeezed orange juice). From the attached poster you can see that it's very good value around Corse Trieste.

Locals around Corso Trieste point to the area around the junction of Via Alessandrio and Viale Regina Margherita as the culinary jewel of this area. There are four restaurants around the junction and all are highly recommended. You won't get a large number of tourists so brush up on your Italian. The area is well served by public transport, particularly to nearby Via Nomentana.