Hotel Trastevere was our home in Rome. Located in Trastevere, you get a modest room with 3 roommates. It is a minimally touristy district, where these Romans claim they are the true Romans. The cobblestone streets and narrow alleys are easier to navigate with practice-- don't be afraid to explore! The Romans are very friendly, and while English may be hard to come by, these Italians are willing to work with you to get what you need.
In Firenze, we stayed in Hotel Patrizia (a few others stayed in another part of this hotel, located a few blocks away). It is more hostel like, with rooms of different sizes, and only one roommate. This is located in a more touristy area, where most speak English. Less cobblestone makes for happier feet, but the Wifi is impossible to connect to.
Pee before you leave everyday, because bathrooms are hard to find and cost a euro to use. Hot water is also hard to come by...but at least you're in Italy.
In Firenze, we stayed in Hotel Patrizia (a few others stayed in another part of this hotel, located a few blocks away). It is more hostel like, with rooms of different sizes, and only one roommate. This is located in a more touristy area, where most speak English. Less cobblestone makes for happier feet, but the Wifi is impossible to connect to.
Pee before you leave everyday, because bathrooms are hard to find and cost a euro to use. Hot water is also hard to come by...but at least you're in Italy.