Rome: SPLENDIDE ROYAL HOTEL

Splendide Royal Roma
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I had the pleasure recently to spend a couple of nights in the Splendide Royal Hotel and I must say every aspect of my visit exceeded all expectations.

This is truly a "home away from home" , albeit a baroque palace from the 18th century

transformed from a unique private residence into an intimately elegant boutique hotel literally in the center of bustling Rome.

The lobby and common areas on the ground floor are more reminiscent of a residence rather than a hotel, and the familiarity is further enhanced by the incredible warmth and friendliness of the staff who take the time to acknowledge each guest by name with graciousness and a genuine smile.

One is immediately surrounded by a sense of history, from the portraits of important religious and historical personages, to the rare Murano chandelier hanging quite prominently in the lobby area, which could easily be alluded to as the palace's " living room", such is the intimacy of this elegant property.

The rooms are airy, bright and larger than average for a city hotel. Every aspect of the guest's comfort and expectations has been considered including such small but important touches as multiple plug outlets with built in adapters for electronic gadgets, and spacious efficient bathrooms with upscale amenities throughout. The attention to the guests' comfort continues to such details as an above average turn down service providing bottled water, a weather forecast for the following day, an elegantly wrapped sweet, bedroom slippers and floor mat.

The Crystal room on the sixth floor is a pleasant surprise, offering a panoramic  view of Rome while enjoying a fresh, varied and plentiful breakfast. The staff here also is attentive yet unobtrusive.

The absolute crown on this rather regal structure is however the ubiquitous Mirabelle restaurant on the seventh floor. Here again the personal and elegant touches provided personally by the owners, makes this a "must see, must experience" feature. The sense of intimacy and familiarity continues here, enhanced by top notch service, drinks and food prepared by very capable barmen, and a superb chef. However it is the breathtaking panoramic birds eye view of the Eternal City that will forever change one's perception of what mundane hotel dining could be.

Guests here are invited to share the award winning spa at its sister property Parco dei Principi hotel, via a free shuttle. This too an additional perk.

This elegant palace is literally steps away from the Spanish steps, shopping and bustling crowds, yet it is ensconced on a side street secluded enough to provide a quiet oasis from the raucous masses.