Index

*** SPECIAL DISCOUNT ***

single room : 30 EUR per night instead of 45 EUR

double room : 50 EUR per night instead of 70 EUR

Welcome to our website!
Some guidelines, to help you navigate these pages.

If you want to learn more about our house, you can simply click on Our House, on the right side of this page. You will find a description and some pictures (some better pics will be uploaded soon, as we think the ones published are not of the highest quality).
Then, you may be curious about us, and you can see our pics simply clicking on We, Julia & Emi (and the cats).
Want to know where our house is? Well, you can see a map clicking on Where are We? and you will also learn something about our area and the nearest touristic hot-spots.
We have two rooms (a third one is about to be renowated soon). To learn everything about them, and to see their pictures, just click on Room with provate bathroom and balcony and Room with private bathroom.
We have decided to give some detailed info regarding some of the nearest touristic hot-spots that you can reach by feet from our house. At the moment, we have published info and pics regarding Trastevere, The Gianicolo, the Porta Portese Flea Market, Villa Pamphili Park and Villa Sciarra. But there are many more interesting places, in our area. So, many more articles will follow soon!
Last but not least, you can read What our Guests say about us, and we are hoping that one day you will be our guest and your comment will be added to the ones we have currently published.
Ciao!
Julia & Emi
(and the cats)

our e-mail address: quetzalkoala@inwind.it



LINKS:

VacationsFRBO.com

What our Guests say about us

Here, you can read some extracts from the e-mails that our guests send to us after their stay here at our place.
We hope we can add more and more such inspiring comments.


"I want to thank you for your hospitality while I stayed with you! Thank you for my room and for your help while I was there. I will never forget watching my first Italian soccer game with both of you!".
(Maryann, San Francisco, USA)

We have been thoroughly enjoying Rome and all it has to offer, including your lovely home! Thank you for making our stay so comfortable.
(Kalpana, New York, USA)

"Hi there! Thanks for everything. I had an unforgettable time! The room was absolutely perfect - totally stress-free!".
(Michael, Portland, USA)

"Now that I've returned and somewhat settled, I wanted to take the time to thank-you for your hospitality while I stayed in Rome. You have a great site and the potential for many more visitors. (granted you might not want many more visitors) ".
(John, Madison, USA)

"Tschau, Emi & Julia! That's the first email that we wrote after our homecoming. We want you to know that we will never forget our first trip to Rome, and especially our stay at your beautiful home. And what a memorable stay it has been! We look forward for our second holiday in Rome, and we hope we will be able to spend it at your home again! Forza Roma!".
(Bettina & Guido, Koblenz, GERMANY)

"There are places that I'll remember forever... and Rome is one of those places. I want to thank you for making my stay in the Eternal City so enjoyable, and for all the tips and assistence you gave me. My Viaggio in Italia was terrific, and I loved your house. Hope to be back soon".
(Delfina, Barcelona, SPAIN)

"Hey Emiliano, I got back to Baltimore last night after one of the longest days I have had in a long time. I would like to thank you and Julia for providing me a homebase for my Roman adventures. I had a fantastic time and I loved your city".
(Lincoln, Baltimore, USA)

"Emiliano, I just came across your address among my papers, and wanted to write and tell you how much we enjoyed getting to know you and julia and how much we enjoyed our stay in your apt".
(Cecelia and Brad, New York City, USA)

"Emiliano and Julia. It was indeed a priviledge and an honor to be in your home and to meet your awesome friends and some of your family. I feel truly enriched for having met you, and eagerly look forward to seeing you again later this year. You are always welcome in my home, if and when you ever should come to California.Hope to hear from you soon".
(Louie, San Francisco, USA)

"We had such a wonderful stay in Rome. It's been very nice to meet you and we look forward to our next stay".
(Sarah & Donald, USA)

"It was my first time booking a room on the Internet and I was quite apprehensive. But the room and the hospitality exceeded my expectations. I will definitely be back".
(Todd, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA)

"Emi and Julia, as I said on the first day, your home is gorgeous. And three weeks later, I think exactly the same: just gorgeous! I want to say Grazie again to you for making me feel so at home. I will recommend it to anyone who I know is coming to Rome for a holiday".
(Fons, Rotterdam, NETHERLANDS)

"Again, thank you for your wounderful hospitality during my Vacanze Romane and for all your efforts to arrange my visit. I look forward to my next trip to Rome! In that fortunate occasion, I hope I will have the chance to stay with you again. And... say hello to the kats!!"
(Kjell, Malmoe, SWEDEN)

"I have had a really wonderful time staying with you, and want to say thank you for making me feel so welcome and at home in your beautiful flat. You have both been so kind, and I hope to be able to return the favour soon".
(Sonja, Newcastle, UK)

"Now is for the first time, thanks to you and Julia that I know some real Romans as friends, and that makes my whole love affair with the city more special than ever. It makes me want to come back more often and to see the city through your native Roman eyes".
(Harley, Fresno, USA)

"I will remember Europe, Italy, Rome, and your house forever. Thank you again your hospitality and kindness".
(Shin, Seoul, SOUTH KOREA)

"Julia and Emi. Thank you so much for making our stay so wonderful... It was such a pleasure to meet you and we will take great memories home to LA. We can't wait to come back for our next visit!".
(Scott & Tara, Los Angeles, USA)

"Emy & Julia and the cats, we had a great time in Rome, and we loved being able to stay at your apartment. Have a great summer! Ciao"
(Matt & Marie, Toronto, CANADA)

"Dear Julia & Emiliano,We would like to thank you for your politeness and assistance. Thanks toit the time we have spent in Rome was so great. Every time we needed help you were ready to help us. It means a lot for us".
(Marta & Marcin, Warsaw, POLAND)

"Hi Emi & Julia, Thanks for having me stay at your place in Roma! I had a wonderful time! If you would like a recommendation for anyone who is staying at your place, please let me know and I will give them a positive review".
(Stephen, Atlanta, USA )

"Thanks for a great stay in beautiful Rome! If I'm back, I will try to book your place again".
(Tanya, Vancouver, CANADA)

"I just wanted to say thanks again for being wonderful hosts and having me in your wonderful city. I had a great time in Rome and its certainly the highlight of my summer. Take care of yourselves and hopefully I will see you again next summer if not sooner!"
(Runako, London, UK )

"I already miss Rome! Your home is really an 'oasis of peace' for a weary teacher that works around the clock! I hope I will see you soon!"
(Gerd, Munich, GERMANY)

"Dear Emi and Julia, thank you so much for everything, especially for giving me a home in Rome. I will miss you both. When I come back to Rome, I will email you for sure!"
(Ana, Los Angeles, USA)

"Thank again for making my trip one to remember and cherish! I've had so much fun living with you guys in Rome!"
(Naruemon, San Francisco, USA)

"We had a truly lovely time in your wonderful house, and you were really patient with us. We will never forget our Roman holidays and your superb hospitality. We hope to see you soon in Paris. And... give a kiss to the sweet cats!"
(Valérie & Alain, Paris, FRANCE)

Villa Sciarra

Villa Sciarra is a public park in the city of Rome, nested above the Gianicolo hill above Trastevere and in the Monteverde district. It is at walking distance from our house.

The villa was built on the site of Caesar Gardens.

It can be easily reached on foot from our house (15 minutes).

It has several entrances. One entrance is in front of the international hospital Salvator Mundi. Another entrance is at intersection of Via Nicola Fabrizi and Via Calandrelli.

The villa is a quaint example of late 800's garden, with fake romain ruins. Trees include a line of palm trees, cedar of lebanon. It hosts an institute of germanic studies.

Villa Pamphili Park

The park is at walking distance from our home. It is the greatest park of Rome with the perimeter of 9km.

It was founded in 1630 for Pamphilius Pamphili, but the most important moment in the development and extension of it was between 1644 and 1652. Two artists from Bolonia, A. Algardi and G.F. Grimaldi, created the villa's palace, called "Casino dell'Allegrezza" (House of Mirth), a beautiful and impressive construction outside, as well as inside, an example of Baroque architectural masterpiece. Now it is a residence of the Chair of Cabinet.

The villa was bought by the Italian State in 1957 and partly by the city of Rome in 1965-71, thus it is open to public and it is a favourite place of rest and sport of Romans.

Learn more at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Doria_Pamphili

Porta Portese Flea Market

The Porta Portese market is at walking distance from our place, and is the biggest and the most popular market of Rome, as the Marché aux Puces in Paris or Portobello Road in London.

Everything can be found both new and old clothes, shoes, leather, recoeds, foods, bric-a-brac and old taps and even a few rare pieces of antique furniture to be restored for very cheap prices.

Bargaining is absolutely allowed, especially when buying antiques or artworks.

It's only open Sundays mornings, sunrise to 1.30pm. Try to get there before 9.00 to avoid the worst crowds.

Beware of pickpockets, especially children, that seem to have an astounding talent in emptying your pockets and disappear in the crowd before you even notice that.

The Gianicolo

Above Trastevere, and at walking distance from our house, is the Gianicolo Hill (Janiculum) with spectacular views over Rome and statues commemorating the heroes of the Risorgimento, including Garibaldi and his wife Anita.


The nearby fontana S. Paolo, or "Fontanone" ("the big fountain") which looks like the façade of a church, dates from the early 17th century and is fed by an ancient Roman aqueduct.


The Janiculum is one of the best locations in Rome for a breathtaking view of the innumerable domes and bell towers that pierce the skyline of the multi-hued architectural museum.


Other sights on the Janiculum include the church of San Pietro in Montorio, built upon the site formerly thought to be where St Peter was crucified; here, the Tempietto del Bramante, a small shrine built by Donato Bramante, marks the supposed site of Peter's death.


The Janiculum also houses several foreign research institutions, including the American Academy in Rome and the Academia de España.

Trastevere

Trastevere is a pitoresque medieval neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber.

From our house, you can reach the heart of Trastevere by feet (20 minutes, going down the beautiful and panoramic Gianicolo Hill), or taking the tram 8 (5 minutes).

The area has escaped the massive developments which almost changed the face of central Rome, and still maintains a strong local identity. It is a lovely place to walk around, eat, drink or relax.

The pulsating heart of Trastevere is Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, a pedestrianised square piazza lined with restaurants and pricey bars, palaces, and the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Heading up the lane to the right of the church, and taking any of the right-hand turnings, you enter into a maze of narrow lanes, at Trastevere's heart.




Plants scramble down walls from garden terraces, washing hangs out to dry, and chipped Virgin Marys look down from shrines on street corners.





















The streets close to the river and south of Viale Trastevere are much quieter and there are several unpretentious restaurants where you can enjoy a peaceful meal at an outdoors table. Just, avoid the typical "tourist traps" (almost any restaurant with a crowd of foreigners is more than probably a not-so-good choice).
There are lovely lanes to explore, and it's not too difficult to step off the main routes and escape the masses. As well as the occasional touch of authentic local colour, there are plenty of businesses aimed at the large foreign population (strongly American and French). Rome's principal foreig language cinema theatre is located here.
There are also lots of stylish bars - most are fairly new, but still atmospheric. It's a lovely area to wander in the soft dark of a Roman evening, with a more intimate feel than the palazzi-filled Centro Storico.

Small Room with private bathroom

It is the smallest room of our house, but somehow, we feel it is our favourite one.

Maybe because of its peaceful isolation, in the most remote corner of our house (two doors separate it from the rest of the house, giving you the maximum of privacy).

Or maybe because of the view on a lush garden of citrus trees and roses.

The room has a private bathroom with bath-tub (recently restored), a double bed, and lots of large shelves where you can store your luggage and belongings. The pictures are quite bad, because we are not good photographers, but we will post better ones as soon as we can (by the way, if you are an expert photographer, you can get a small discount by helping us in that!).

The cleaning of the room is not included: our guests are requested to clean their room before departure, leaving it as they found it on arrival (or add 10 EUR for the cleaning).

Please, note that two cats live in the house (you can see them clicking on the menu on your left), so allergic people shall be aware of that, before booking.

Please, also consider that we expect our guests to be very tidy and clean.

PRICES

from January 10 to July 31
1 person : 45 EUR per night
2 persons : 70 EUR per night

from August 1 to January 9

1 person : 60 EUR per night

2 persons : 90 EUR per night

washing machine : 5 EUR per full load

post-departure cleaning: 10 EUR (or do-it-yourself)

if interested, please email us at: quetzalkoala@inwind.it
_

Some more pictures:

Room with private bathroom

That's a bright and very spacious room (available for 1, 2, 3 or 4 guests).


The room has a large double bed (a second double-bed is provided for three or more guests).
A TV set is available too (but we hope our guests will find more enticing the idea of a tour than the boredom of couch-potatoing).

DSL Internet connection is available (and included in the price).

Our guests will have exclusive access to a beautifully decorated private bathroom with bathtub.

The bathroom walls are decorated with original mosaicwork, using an ancient painstaking technique that dictates that every single piece must be placed individually, and there are thousands of them!

The cleaning of the room is not included: guests shall clean their room before departure (or add 10 EUR for the cleaning).
Please, note that two cats live in the house, so allergic people shall consider this.
Please, also consider that we expect our guests to be very tidy and clean.

PRICES
from January 10 to July 31

1 person : 45 EUR per night

2 persons : 70 EUR per night

3 persons : 100 EUR per night

4 persons : 130 EUR per night

from August 1 to January 9
1 person : 60 EUR per night
2 persons : 90 EUR per night
3 persons : 120 EUR per night
4 persons : 150 EUR per night

washing machine : 5 EUR per full load

post-departure cleaning: 10 EUR (or do-it-yourself)

if interested, please email us at: quetzalkoala@inwind.it

_

Room with private bathroom and balcony

It is a very large room, and it can accomodate for 1, 2, 3, or even 4 guests.

The room has a private bathroom with shower, a large double-bed (an extra bed is provided for the third person), and also a small terrace.

DSL Internet connection is available 24/7 (and is included in the price).

The cleaning of the room is not included: guests shall clean their room before departure (or add 10 EUR for the cleaning).

Please, note that two cats live in the house, so allergic people shall consider this.

Please, also consider that we expect our guests to be very tidy and clean.

PRICES

from January 10 to July 31
1 person : 45 EUR per night
2 persons : 70 EUR per night
3 persons : 100 EUR per night
4 persons : 130 EUR per night

from August 1 to January 9

1 person : 60 EUR per night

2 persons : 90 EUR per night

3 persons : 120 EUR per night

4 persons : 150 EUR per night

washing machine : 5 EUR per full load

post-departure cleaning: 10 EUR (or do-it-yourself)

if interested, please email us at: quetzalkoala@inwind.it

_

How to reach our place

click on the map to enlarge it

Our house (marked as a redyellow rectangle) is located in Monteverde, a neighborhood not far from Trastevere and Saint Peter's, in the centre of Rome.

On the map (click on the map to enlarge it), you can follow the red dots, linking the Trastevere railway station to our home.

It's a 5 minutes walk, but you can event take number 8 (going uphill: get off the tram at the first stop, in Piazzale Dunant, marked on the map with a blueyellow dot).
The area is very well connected with the public transportation network. There are two city-train stations (Trastevere and Quattro Venti), and several bus stops.
By train, you can get to Saint Peter's Station and the Vatican in just 4 minutes.
The Fiumicino Airport is very well connected too: a train from Trastevere Station goes to and from the Airport in 25 minutes.
A Tram 8 stop is also at walking distance: this tram was called "8" because it was supposed to take you to Largo di Torre Argentina (in the heart of Rome) in 8 minutes. It actually takes you there in 10 or 12 minutes.

Some hot-spots at walking distance from our home:

- Villa Pamphili park (see link on the right of this page)
- Porta Portese Second-Hand Sunday Market (see link on the right of this page)
- The Gianicolo (see link on the right of this page)
- Villa Sciarra (see link on the right of this page)
- Trastevere (see link on the right of this page)
- The American Academy


By bus, train or tram, it's easy to reach the major tourist destinations, as the Coliseum, the Vatican, and so on.

We, Julia & Emi (and the cats)

And here we are!

We are a young couple, living together since March 2005.

Julia is a 24 y.o. student in Architecture and Design, here in Rome.

She was born in Paris, France, from an Italian mother and a French father, but moved to Rome when she was 3 years old. She loves arts and cuisine, and she plans to work as an Interior Designer. She has already some experience as the youngest member of an Italian-American design team that created the Interiors of several Luxury Hotels in Rome.

Emiliano is a 35 y.o. journalist and scientific translator. Born in Rome, he has studied Social Anthropology and loves natural and social sciences. He currently works as an author and translator for several tv channels, and he has recently started translating feature films from English to Italian.

Charas & Ketama are our cats. They are of Norwegian breed, and despite their "wild" origins (they originally live in the Norse forests) are extremely sociable and never scratched nor bite anybody in their 15 years on this Earth.

They are twins, so we thought that one single picture could be enough (the one in the pic is Ketama, but Charas looks just the same.

They love salmon (better if Norwegian), and sleeping under the sheets with us.

They are both very territorial, and they perceive any guest as an intruder. This can lead to unpleasans incidents, because their way to express dominance is by... pissing on people's things. So, we always warn our guests to keep their belongings inside their room, and to keep their room door always locked. And we really mean "always".

Our House

Our house sits in a very nice and central neighborhood, in a strategic position thanks to its vicinity to the Historical Centre area and to the public transportation system, that in this area is great. It is a 185 square meters (around 2000 square feet) apartment, with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.

It has a very spacious living room, with a balcony and a fireplace.

During the winter, we love to spend long hours in front of the fire, reading books and sipping wine, while the chestnuts roast on the embers and some good jazz music fills the air.

When the warm months come, we enjoy our balcony, where we can sunbath or dine while a constant breeze carries along the almost dizzying smell of orange flowers and roses blossoming in our neighbours' garden below.

We love cinema, and we have a small "media room" equipped with 32'' flat screen and home theatre. That's where we enjoy our 300+ movies (almost a third of them in English language).

If you want to see more pics, just email us at quetzalkoala@inwind.it