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More Italian Bang For Your Buck in Parma

Go To The Hotel's Web Site Where: Viale Mentana 140, Parma, Italy
May 12, 2009 at 4:17 PM | by globetrotting gourmet | 1 Comment

The dismal state of the dollar required drastic budget cuts on a recent trip to Italy, so despite the adage “All roads lead to Rome” (been there, done it, love it), we took a detour, and instead, headed to Parma.

Parma may lack the glitz (and crowds) of the Italian capital, but it still oozes with all the charm that makes Italy one of the world’s most romantic destinations – cathedrals, art galleries, castles, culture, shopping, and killer wine and cuisine.

Since Parma is a fairly affordable destination, it opens up more opportunities for accommodations, than let’s say Rome, Florence or Venice.

Big decision: stay at a swanky five star for five nights or stretch the not-so-almighty buck for a solid one-week stay? The thought of an extended vaca won out, and online, rooms hovered right around a budget-friendly $100 per night rate at Hotel Maria Luigia (booked plenty in advance). The hotel touted four star status, and sì, it delivered.

The hotel exterior is a bit drab, but step inside, and its elegant rooms (101 of ‘em), stellar service and convenient location near the train station more than make up for it. The clientele is a bit more business than leisure, but does not distract from having a low-key stay. Feeling flush, or on a business account, if such a thing still exists? Book a penthouse room for fantastic panoramic city views.

In the morning, fuel up on high-octane Italian espresso and perfectly prepared eggs (included in some room rates) at the hotel’s restaurant Maxim’s before hitting the nearby historic museums, sites and Piazza Garibaldi, one of the most beautiful squares in the city. Fashionistas: Hotel Maria Luigia is dangerously close to Calezdonia, the Italian stocking superstore.

On the upside, with all the money you save staying at Hotel Maria Luigia, you’ll be able to stock up on the holy trinity of Parma souvenirs, hunks of Parmigiano-Reggiano, whole legs of Prosciutto di Parma and enough sexy hosiery to make even Gisele Bundschen blush.

Rooms currently start at $119 USD.

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  1. enzoenzo

    HotelChatter Member

    Hostels

    If you are really short on money, look for hostels in the area you are staying, ideal for students, and cost only a fraction of a hotel room!
    May 13, 2009 at 9:57 AM
    #Permalink

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