HOTEL BUZZ: Via Veneto in Rome

Since opening in Spring of 2009, Via Veneto is the latest  five-star hotel to line Rome’s legendary street. Masterfully marrying modern and classical aesthetics, the Grand Hotel Via Veneto sits at the heart of Rome, and is an alluring addition to the historic city. The five-star luxury hotel was created out of two restored 19^th-century buildings, but the site’s history goes beyond that. The area was the birthplace of the La Dolce Vita movement, and the hotel grounds have been used since antiquity by cardinals, kings and barbarian conquerors.

The hotel plays up its artistic heritage beautifully. The 19^th-century façade is perfectly preserved, and the interior holds an impressive collection of oil paintings and lithographs by Picasso, Miro, Nespolo and an entire lounge dedicated to De Chirico. Striking, custom-made Murano glass chandeliers hang from the ceilings, offsetting the black granite floors and travertine stairways.

The hotel’s 122 spacious rooms and suites, Italian and seafood restaurants, state-of-the-art fitness center and spa are crafted with a modern twist on classic art deco design. Sleek wood furniture lines the rooms, which feature extraordinary Carrara marble bathrooms as well as Wi-Fi, interactive Satellite / On Demand HD TV, and of course, self-controlled air conditioning and mini-bars.

To celebrate the summer, Grand Hotel Via Veneto is offering a limited time promotion. From July 19^th to September 10^th, guests who stay at least three nights in either superior or deluxe rooms will receive a free night’s stay that includes a daily breakfast and welcome aperitif for two, as well as a complimentary room upgrade based on availability. Rates start at 290 Euros per night. For more information, visit www.ghvv.it.