Leaving Cinque Terre, going to Rome.
Owner of Michaela Rooms came early in the morning so we could pay him and return the key. Sure would have been nicer to have him come at the beginning of the trip.
Grabbed croissant & coffee from our favorite take-out place and headed for the train station. 8:00 train to LaSpezia, then a 1.5 hour wait until the train for Rome. A couple also there from Florida (small world). New Zealand people sat next to us on the train to Rome so the time passed quickly talking about their country. 

ROME: Arrived at 3:00. Taxi to hotel. Staying at Queen Palace Suites.
Great central location  on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II street. Easy to walk to most of Rome's famous landmarks.
Arriving at this very old building with massive front doors leading into a huge marble-floored entry was certainly impressive--and eerily empty.

Up a small set of stairs to the tiny elevator, which was like going back in time with an iron door you manually opened. Got a little nervous about where we are staying.

What a surprise when we entered the door to this boutique hotel located on the third floor. Everything was newly renovated, very modern, and immaculate. Dalila at desk really nice and brought us a tray of snacks and drinks; sure appreciated this thoughtful touch. Nice size room with dining table. 

Bathroom large and ultra modern. However, quite often got "attacked" by the water shooting out of the faucet if the handle was pushed too hard. Amazing shower with multiple shower heads and lighting that changed colors.  
Breakfast, which was selected the previous night, was delivered to the room each morning.
Guests shared the lounge/kitchen area; ice in the frig. Only two people efficiently took care of everything. Dalila, who was always there, was absolutely fabulous. Provided a map, highlighted the places to see, and gave excellent recommendations for local places to eat. She made it feel like we were staying with relatives and definitely enhanced our wonderful experience here in Rome. 

Randy happened to meet the owner in the lobby, and he gave us a card for Pantaleo restaurant. Went for dinner since it was only several blocks from the hotel. At seven o'clock hardly any customers yet since most people each much later. The waiter spent lots of time chatting with us and explaining the food; learned about Robiola cheese. Brought out a sample platter with four different appetizers (courtesy of the restaurant); also had pulled pork & focaccia--Great! Planned on a light meal and ended up stuffed. 

Walking the streets is always a favorite thing to do in any city.  Can't explain the feeling of wandering Rome's maze of small streets for the first time. To our surprise, we came into this large incredible square. 

PIAZZA NAVONA: WOW, what an incredible sight lit up at night! This impressive oval shaped piazza is considered one of the most beautiful in Rome.

Spread out down the center are three fountains. Two were designed by Bernini --Neptune's (Fontana del Nettuno) at the north end and Fiumi (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) surrounding an ancient Egyptian obelisk.

Facing the square is Sant'Agnese in Agone, a 17th-century Baroque church. Lined with restaurants, outdoor cafes, street artists it was always lively and bustling with people. Came here several times since it's quite close to our hotel. 

Beautiful any time of day, but illuminated at night Piazza Navona is really spectacular! 

How convenient having a Gelato place right by hotel; won't be able to pass here without stopping.

What a great first night in Rome!