Maryelen, our B&B in Rome

I decided to book us into the same location where I stayed with my father, stepmother and sister in January 2006. Although it is located in a busy, urban street near the train station, the building has a lovely courtyard which offers privacy and respite from modern Rome.

The website says is modest about its amenities:

"Maryelen Bed and Breakfast is located in the historical centre of Rome, between Termini railway station and the basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. It is near the Coliseum, the Forum and Piazza Venezia and the whole of central Rome.

You will find a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, all with en-suite bathroom and air conditioning.

The building also includes an internal courtyard with a beautiful garden offering an atmosphere of calm and serenity."

Upon our return from Italy two years ago, I posted this review to an independent B&B booking and reviewing site (venere.com):

“My family (two parents 60+ and two adult daughters) made Rome our first stop in Italy this month (1/06) and were delighted to find such a comfortable location near the train station. The web site description accurately detailed the room and surroundings (hairdryers in room, elevator in building, within walking distance to sights and public transportation), but didn’t come close to describing the warm, enveloping hospitality we were offered by Loredana and her teenage daughters Mary & Elen. With travelers of all nations staying in the B&B, breakfasts were a time full of helpful information and heartfelt laughter as our families shared stories of childhoods, pets and travels. A surprising bonus was the small restaurant Loredana and her husband opened across the street on Jan. 1 allowing a good meal in close proximity to our rooms after long days of touring. The rooms and hallways were quiet at night. When my sister had her wallet stolen late on a Sunday, Loredana was an invaluable help contacting the police and allowing access to her fax machine in order to contact credit card companies and other security agencies. We hope to return to the Maryelen not just as visitors, but as friends. If you are looking for an affordable, clean, comfortable, homey B&B, this is your place.”

I can't wait to see Loredana again and we have been emailing sporadically during the planning of this trip.