We spent 6 nights here last September and although it did have some faults, I'd definately stay there again.

+ The location is fantastic. It's just off Via Nationale which is great for shopping and eating. And it's an easy walk distance to the Piazza della Republica and transport termi. We were right in the middle of it and loved it.

+ The room was tired but clean. For example, there was plaster coming off the wall in places, but the room was serviced to a great level every day. For me the rough edges just provided the charm. Spacious by European city standards. A separate bathroom with bath. We managed to fit a family of four (plus luggage for a month - with all the baby gear as we were traveling with a 9 month old) reasonably.

+ The private terrace off our room was just amazing. Large and extremely private with views over central Rome. One of the highlights of this entire trip was simply sitting out on the terrace enjoying a glass of wine while the kids were happy to play quietly.

+ Soundproofed. Although we were in the middle of it all, in our room we heard nothing. Well, except for the bells which rang from the Opera House (it used to be a church) and was only a couple of hundred metres or so from one side of our room. I only noticed it during the day and again, it added to the charm. (Note. it did not bother me to the point of being concerned about it waking our baby).

+ The staff. Were helpful when we asked, otherwise "hello" and a smile were all we saw of them.

- The lift. Only one tiny little lift. A couple of flights of stairs are not a problem for us generally, but we were traveling with a baby in a pram. It just meant waiting on occasion (especially at check in or check out time).

- TV. From memory I don't think there was anything remotely interesting for kids. The only English channels were news. Not a problem for us - we had a portable DVD player for the 4 year old!

- The breakfast on offer was a little bit sad. If you're after a full continental like you'd find in 5 star chains, you won't find it here. We did manage to find enough coffee, pastries, cereal and some bread, meat and cheeses to get us on the way every day. So overall, okay.

Final note: try to book the room on the top floor at the front of the hotel. More expensive but the large private terrace is worth it. I think this must be one of the hotels high points as the photos are on it's website. I loved this place and would return in an instant!