📖 Fodor's Rome 2012

Rome is more than ever bursting at the seams with newly unleashed vitality. Just in time for 2012's 2 million American visitors is all-color, photo-packed "Fodor's Rome, " revealing the "festa romana" that is the pulse of the Eternal City. If proof were needed that Romans are switching into the fast lane, just check out Fodor's "new Rome" wrap-up. Expanded Coverage: Look for expanded write-ups of the hot and hip neighborhoods of Pigneto and San Lorenzo, the latest architectural landmarks (the Casa della Ballo and Casa del Cinema), and more avant-garde sites. Illustrated Features: Rome is one of Europe's most resplendent cities, so it is no wonder Fodor's selected it for full-color treatment. Our "In-Focus" magazine-style illustrated features take in everything from archaeological sites to the Vatican to the coolest neighborhoods. The guide showcases the ancient city in "Rome Was Not Built in a Day," then skips to the city's hippest scene-arena in "Life is a Piazza." For Rome at its High-Renaissance best, and insights on how the 17th--century city of spectacle was created, toggle from the section "Agony and Ecstasy: The Sistine Ceiling" to "Baroque and Desperate: The Tragic Rivalry of Bernini and Borromini." A first for Fodor's: our photo-rich chapter, "Roamin' Holiday," has theme walks that immerse the reader in three especially evocative stretches of the city. Indispensable Trip Planning Tools "Fodor's Rome" consummately fits the bill on both a practical and cultural basis. Detail-packed "Getting Oriented" sections, with plenty of hands-on coaching, introduce all nine sightseeing neighborhoods. The "Experience Rome" chapter is loaded with valuable advice, such as tips on how to explore Rome like the locals do, and "Beating the Euro." With neighborhood hotel charts, eight photo-spotlit dining districts, and more restaurant and hotel reviews than Frommer's, "Fodor's Rome" handily trumps the competition. Discerning Recommendations: Fodor's Rome offers savvy advice and recommendations from local writers to help travelers make the most of their time. Fodor's Choice designates our best picks, from hotels to nightlife. "Word of Mouth" quotes from fellow travelers provide valuable insights. PULLOUT MAP: A handy take-along map provides added value, giving travelers essential information about top attractions, walking tours, and nearby dining so they can travel with confidence.