Rome is a city that inspires romantic ideas and visions. In reality, Rome is layers of crowded streets, tourists, and amazing historical significance. There is more to do, to see and to experience in the city of Rome than you could ever accomplish in one trip.

One of the best things about Rome is that you can enjoy it in a number of different ways. It can be a great city to see on foot, or you can choose to tour the area by taxi or bus. No matter how you decide to get around, there are some things that you have to be sure to see on your trip.

The Colosseum is a 2,000 year old building and a leading example of Roman engineering. It is big and marked by the concrete, brick and arches that were a trademark of Roman designs. The Colosseum was the location of the gladiator shows, executions and other gruesome “entertainment” for the people of that day.

The Pantheon is a dynamic example of the splendor of the Roman Empire. The dome is 142 high and wide (even Michelangelo’s amazing dome is not as wide) and its architectural design has astounded the experts for years. The concrete in the dome gets thinner and lighter as it goes up and the top of the dome is made out of volcanic pumice. The Pantheon is the burial place of Raphael and other great Renaissance artists.

Vatican City is a tiny country within the walls of Rome and it is full of wondrous architecture and artworks. St. Peter’s Basilica is the richest and most impressive church that you will ever visit. It is filled with sculptures and other breathtaking sites. The Vatican Museum offers four MILES of displaces and is one of Europe’s top displays of artwork.

To experience the true magnificence that Rome offers, you will probably want to take a tour (guided or self-guided) that follows a particular path. There is so much to see and do that it is easy to miss some of the most amazing aspects of the city. You can find tours available through the internet or create your self guided tour through the same medium.

You are likely to find that one visit to Rome is not enough to experience the city completely. It seems that around ever corner or in ever nook there is another surprise or wonder to see.

Staying with friends or family is one of the top ways to save money when you are traveling. The trick to staying at another person’s home is knowing the rules. Following a few simple tips will help insure that your stay is pleasant and that you are also welcomed back in the future.

1. Invest in a host or hostess gift. Do a little research to find out what your host enjoys and invest in a nice gift to complement that interest. If you are unable to find something specific for the hostess then go generic. Get a nice vase with a flower arrangement or some bath salts. The purpose is to let the person you are staying with know that you appreciate what they are doing.

2. Offer to help out around the house. If meals are included in the stay then offer to clean up after the meal. Few hosts will allow their guests to do any kind of labor, but the gesture will still be appreciated.

3. Treat the home you are staying in better than your own home. Pick up (and put away) your dirty cloths. Put trash in the garbage can. Keep the noise down all the time and inaudible after normal bedtime hours.

4. Leave things in the same or better condition than when you arrived. Make the bed, fold the dirty towel and leave it next the bathtub and wipe down the sink and mirror. It will fill good to leave the place looking nice and it will be a nice surprise for you host or hostess.

5. Take your host and the host family out for a meal before you leave. It is just one more way to show your appreciation for their hospitality.

6. Be sure to follow up your visit with a thank you note. Mention specifics about your stay (like the fresh cut flowers in the room or the great home made meals). Specific information will give more meaning to your note. If you are in a position to do so, then extend an invitation for them to come stay with you in the future.

Being nice and polite can go a long way – particularly when you are staying in someone else’s home. Be sure you let them know you are appreciative. Take care to treat their home with respect. And follow up with a thank you. With just a few simple steps you are likely to become everyone’s favorite house guest.

When it all starts closing in on you, it is time to get away and recharge. Whether you are getting away from the job, the boss, or the family, there is a retreat that will help bring you back to a place of order. You can indulge your spiritual side, your adventurous side, or the side that just wants to be alone. Just take some time out for yourself so that you don’t take it out on everyone around you.

1. Women’s Quest offers great adventures designed to rekindle your passions and refresh your spirit. There are comfortable accommodations, inspirational talks, and expert instruction. You will also be treated to healthy, delicious meals - and you won’t even have to do the dishes afterwards. Round out the retreat with massage, yoga, and other creative activities.

2. You can take your retreat to a whole new level with the help of A Woman’s Way. These retreats off a unique path to discovering creative potential and creating a life filled with passion and joy.

3. If it’s adventure that you crave then Mind Over Mountains is the place for you. These retreats focus on the mind through discussions, journal writing, and inspiring presentations. The goal is to stimulate new thoughts, new insights, and new solutions all leading to positive actions. The body is also a focus through a variety of outdoor activities. There is mountain climbing, hiking, peak climbing, and other activities designed to push the limits we have set for ourselves. The spirit is included in the retreats through yoga and quiet time.

4. When you think of a yoga retreat, a dude ranch may not be the first place to pop into your mind. The Home Ranch has designed a week especially for women that brings yoga and horsemanship into harmony. Not only do you receive instruction from renowned instructors, but you will be treated to gourmet cuisine, massage, bonding and relaxation.

5. For a holistic approach to your getaway, you need to visit Nurture Through Nature. They offer canoe trips, custom getaways, and wellness retreats. The goal is to provide a reflective and contemplative space surrounded by the soothing qualities of nature. The retreats include Hatha yoga, guided meditations, and the mind clearing method The Work of Byron Katie.

6. The Dragonflye Experience lets you see past the illusion that the world places on your life so that you can see what you truly need to make your life better. The retreats are a place where women can find quiet (something we all long for) and also the space and comfort to discover the inner strength and wisdom that they already possess.

Taking time to refresh and recharge is important no matter what stage of life you may be walking through. If you can’t find the time or money for an “official” getaway or retreat then make your own. Check into a hotel (at least two hours from home so you won’t be easily accessible) and read a book or sleep the time away.

Resorts are vacation destinations that often offer all your travel needs under one room. You can find your accommodations, entertainment and food without ever leaving the premises. Or the resorts may offer guided tours of the local attractions. Resorts may limit your interaction with the locals, but they can also offer some great vacation experience that you will not find anywhere else.

Set in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona is the Frank Lloyd Wright influenced architecture of the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa. It sits on 39 acres of gardens, pools and art work nestled at the foot of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve (more than 23,000 acres of nature reserve). The Resort offers activities that cater to the entire family as well as to the individual. There are also fitness classes that can be booked in advanced along with tours to any of the local attractions.

The Heidel House Resort in Green Lake, Wisconsin has been called the best resort in the state. Set on 20 acres (all fully landscaped) it is a great place to find lakeside accommodations. The recreation coordinator can help you meet most of your outdoor needs, from hiking to boating to biking. There are also great fishing opportunities. The spa service is a blend of all natural and high tech that is customized for each guest.

Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Missouri sits on the banks of the Lake of the Ozarks among 420 acres. It offers two golf courses (one 18 hole and one 9 hole), tennis, swimming, parasailing, boat rentals and other outdoor activities. The resort also has its own indoor water park, heated swimming pool, arcade, bowling and fitness center.

The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia is spread out over 16,000 acres that include three 18 hole golf courses, a trout stream, skeet and trap shooting fields, 19 tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a naturally-heated mineral water pool. You can also enjoy bowling, billiards, and movies all on resort property. The resort Spa and Salon features personalized massages, mineral baths, facial, manicures and so much more. It is every thing that you need for a complete vacation experience.

The resort development is making its way into the mainstream vacation getaways. Although the prices are still higher than your average hotel room, when you add it all up the amenities fare out weigh the costs.

Getting away for the weekend is a nice break from a chaotic life. It is still nice to feel the comforts of home even if you are away. Bed and Breakfasts offer the best of both worlds – a break from the ordinary life and the warmth of home.

Pennsylvania has a great choice of getaways. Try the Baladerry Inn for great rooms and spacious grounds offer a relaxing retreat from the daily grind.

Make a break from it to New York and the luxurious Alexander Hamilton House. Some of the rooms have the added touch of a fireplace or a whirlpool, prefect for a relaxing weekend.

New Jersey’s Apple Valley Inn is steeped with history. This colonial mansion was built in the 1800’s and features wrap-around porches with awe inspiring views.

The Inn at Mount Snow is a warm, relaxing atmosphere bundled at the base of the mountain in West Dover, Vermont. Each room features a private bath and great amenities. This is more than a place to sleep; it is a hideaway in the heart of nature.

In the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia you’ll find a wonderfully restored 1885 mansion that is a mix of Queen Anne and Stone and Shingled New England Cottage. The Stonewall Jackson Inn has rooms are sound insulated with individual climate control.

The Homestead Inn in Connecticut offers hospitality and comfort to all who visit. The inn is 154 old, rich in architectural details, and recently remodeled.

Newport, Rhode Island offers many treats for the weekend getaway. One of them is the Victorian Ladies Inn. The inn is surrounded with award-winning gardens and just a walk away from the activities that make the town so special.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas offers a delightful treat in the Arsenic and Old Lace Inn. This Queen Anne Victorian offers peaceful views of the hills and gardens. Here is where old world elegance meets modern comforts and conveniences.

If you are looking for history, then St. Augustine, Florida is the city and Centennial House is the place to say. It has been fully restored and is a nationally registered “Certified Historic Structure.” It is just a stroll away from the historic district and many of the main sites.

New Orleans, Louisiana is another southern city steeped with history and charm. In the heart of the city is the Lanaux Mansion, an 1879 Renaissance Revival Victorian Mansion. It is a true heirloom with its courtyard garden and cast-iron filigree balconies.

Week-end getaways can have all the charm of a weekend with family or friend. Bed and Breakfasts are the perfect way to get the relaxation you need with the comforts of home you love.