Experience in Rome, Italy by Matteo

What is it like to live in Rome? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

If you have already been to Rome for visiting, you have no idea of what is living in Rome about: the experience of visiting is so distant from the experience of residing. Rome is a wonderful chaotic city. When you visit it you focus on the wonderful part; when you live in it, you discover the truly chaotic side. In this city nothing is granted and anything can happen. If you're someone used to fight against anyone for anything you cross into during your day, this city we'll give you a good run for your money!

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What is the student lifestyle like in Rome?

Student lifestyle is very dynamic and there are always something going on every evening.

How much does it cost to live in Rome?

It depends on where you're staying. Living in the city centre can be really expensive (more than 800 Euro per month: rent+food+bus tickets).

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Rome? Is there any advice you can give?

It is not difficult to find accommodation in Rome. I would suggest finding it not far away from an underground ("metro") station or tram stop. Buses are not reliable at all.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Don't worry about food! In general, eating Italian food and especially in the Italian way (we eat a lot) you'll put on weight while living here... but in a healthy and satisfactory way. Roman dishes are very simple and count on quality of the ingredients for achieving a great result.

What places would you recommend visiting in Rome?

Beside the main attractions which can be easily found by googling, I suggest visiting small towns in the northern part of Lazio: Calcata, Bagno-Regio, Civita Castellana.

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Is it good to eat out in Rome? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

For a 5-min meal try the pizza "alla pala" which in Rome is particularly appreciated also by Italians coming from other cities.

Rome offers many places where to eat: have a walk through the narrow streets in Rione Monti or in Trastevere and you'll find many little cosy restaurants! In particular, I suggest "Bir and Fud" in Trastevere and "La Base" in Via Cavour (which is open until 4 in the morning! ).

The best day-trip destination within an hour’s drive, is the Castelli. "Aranula" in Frascati offers very high quality food (but is a bit expensive around 30 euros), whilst eating in a "Fraschetta" is definitely an experience that one has to do. The fraschette are informal osterie where you can eat, drink, sing and enjoy your time with your friends but also with other people eating there. You may even be assigned at a table along with strangers, if the seating is bench-like. For about 15 Euro you can eat and drink many typical Roman food: you must eat the porchetta (roasted pork) and drink "romanella": a fresh and a little bit sparkling wine that will beat you before you understand how strong it is! I love going here especially during summer when Rome gets incredibly hot and the Castelli offer fresh air, good food and wine and always great time!

Is the nightlife good in Rome? Where is good to go?

Piazza Bologna, San Lorenzo and Trastevere are more crowded in the night than during the day!

What advice would you give future students heading to Rome?

It is very difficult to find information from universities. It is much more reliable and quick to ask other students. Don't be afraid about asking, Italians students are very open and helpful people!