"How did it strike you on arrival?It feels wrong to call Palazzo Manfredi a hotel; rather, it’s a palatial residence, owned by none other than Count Goffredo Manfredi. The reception area is suitably grand, with ancient maps on the wall and leather Chesterfield armchairs. Silver picture frames and diamond jewelry is on display, too, all available for purchase. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Anyone who likes a bit of old school luxury will be tickled pink by this place. The service is impeccable, and the location, right by the the Colosseum, is utterly glorious. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The handsome Junior Suite is warm and wintry, with chocolate-colored walls and burgundy furniture, velvet chairs and a suede bedhead. The pillow menu is marvelous, as are the views to Colosseum. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The modern, coffee-colored bathroom has dusky marble sinks and a big walk-in shower. Some Suites even come with a hot tub and exercise bike, taking care of all your relaxation and fitness needs. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is free, and strong. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant Aroma is worth a visit, just for the views—although the food is equally stupendous. The tasting menu spans seafood (octopus, scallops), pasta (pumpkin and gorgonzola tagliolini with caviar) and pork and lamb, before moving on to a creamy lemon sponge dessert. Go for the matching wine option. Word of warning, if you can’t make it and cancel your table on the same day as the reservation, there’s a no show fee of €100 per person. Ouch." - Maresa Manara
