RTW 2.5x - a DONE4 with stops in NYC, London and Italy (HCO only)

[Trekky1]

Really enjoying your trip report!

 

[sudoer]

I do recommend trying this product but I also understand most people would probably balk at the cost

How much does it cost these days? In 2023, my wife and I travelled Venice to Bologna to Florence to Rome for 60, 32 and 84 EUR pp in Exec class on the Frecciarossa 1000.

Similar to your experience, the Exec class cabins were heavily underutilised but quite comfortable and spacious. We thought it was an incredible deal for the price...

 

[PrezRegan]

How much does it cost these days? In 2023, my wife and I travelled Venice to Bologna to Florence to Rome for 60, 32 and 84 EUR pp in Exec class on the Frecciarossa 1000.

Similar to your experience, the Exec class cabins were heavily underutilised but quite comfortable and spacious. We thought it was an incredible deal for the price...

Yeah from memory when I booked a month or so back it was 140 euros just from Florence to Rome in executive class which even to me seems excessive

 

[PrezRegan]

Quick review of the hotel I stayed in overnight in Rome - the Mercure Centro Termini. It’s about a 10 min walk from the station.

Status acknowledged on check in and I got upgraded to a junior suite. It turns out this is the best room in the hotel as it occupies the entire top floor! So I guess I got the ultimate upgrade as a lowly Accor Gold.

Room was spacious and well lit. A welcome gift of fruit appeared whilst I was out on my pasta making adventure in the nearby town of Frascati - a 25 min train trip from Rome.

Frascsti is a beautiful town and the pasta making experience with wine tasting was interesting. We made all the pasta by hand - no machines - and it was quite satisfying. Afterwards I went out with a Spanish couple who were also there at the pasta making for “one drink” which became 3 bottles and us staying out till at least 0230…. When in Rome right?

This morning I slept in, checked out at 12 and walked to the station. There is an express train to the airport for 14 euros, which takes about 30 mins and is excellent - when there aren’t rail strikes like i had when I flew in what feels like ages ago but was really last week.

Security was quick thanks to the fast track line and thankfully BA has a dedicated lounge here. Food was… average - think dry, room temperature chicken fried bits, room temp lasagne (definitely not home made) and cold veg. But the lounge does have amazing views of the apron. Unfortunately no pictures as it was quite busy.

My flight out has been delayed due to a delay in the incoming plane so whilst I thought we’d be ok as they started boarding on time, we’re all just standing on the air bridge. Classic hurry up and wait! This flight also marks the start of my long journey home via Singapore and Narita, then Brisbane and finally Canberra. I won’t get back until Friday!