2015 ITALY Parma 19 - Lodging at Parma

Once again Chef John picked an ideal location for our hotel in Parma, the Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati. Per Google Translate, it means Palace of the Rose of the Lawns. No lawn here, but with a corner unit we had wonderful views from two sides.

Out the front we saw the huge Piazza Duomo square, the cathedral to our right, and the Bishop's Palace and tower to our left. Out the side, we looked across an alley to the beautiful pink and white baptistery.

If you stuck your head out the windows, you saw resident balconies with flowers galore or a little business street with outside cafes.

Besides the great views, this place wins for best location. Everything was easily walkable--shopping of all levels (Mike bought peaches at a local produce market); the main town square with the French market stores; plenty of places to catch a caffè, quick bite or elegant dinner; and numerous historical buildings and sights.

In the evening groups of students gathered and had some kind of competition going. As I hung out the window, one group noticed and urged me to root for their team. After dark a lone accordion musician played traditional Italian songs right below our window. It was quite romantic. And at night all was quiet and peaceful for a good night's sleep, even with windows open.

The room was spacious and furnished with antiques. Above our headboard was a crown-like decoration with draping. Reminded me of what you see in movies in the medieval days.

There was a kitchenette, although we had no need for it, and there was a modern, marbled bathroom. We were thankful to be back to a spacious shower. I did a load of hand washing to refresh our socks and let them dry on the handy heated towel racks.

Rather than a B&B room, the hotel had an arrangement with the cafe next door. You could eat the usually Italian breakfast (cheese, sliced cured meats, rolls, fruit, yogurt) or order something more elaborate. There was an assortment of Italian caffè styles to choose from. We all got the cappuccini.

PS - The name of our room was Lucrezia.

Click here to read more about the hotel.