Domna Luxury Suites

The location was phenomenal, but at this price I expected the five-star luxury suite it was listed as on Google, Priceline, Hotels.com and other platforms. Instead, this honeymoon stay left us pretty disappointed. The room had lovely finishes and the heating and AC worked well, but hot water ran short before both my husband and I could shower. The sink pressure was also too weak unless we turned it all the way on, and then it would dwindle out. We were also kept awake by the people above us stomping, jumping and dragging furniture. It was loud enough that we wondered if it was intentional. The first time, around 11:30 on our second night, it went on for about an hour before I texted the emergency number. Nobody read or answered. The next day my husband called when it happened again, apparently starting while I was blow-drying my hair. He was told the unit above was occupied by a permanent resident or owner, and asked, “so you want me to ask them to be quiet in their own home?” We thought we had booked a five-star suite and expected the issue to be addressed. They sounded defensive, though they said they’d try to find the owner’s contact details and get in touch. That didn’t inspire confidence. How could a luxury suite have no contact details or relationship with the neighbors? There’s no elevator or proper luggage service either. The woman who checked us in helped with our bags, but on a three-week trip with two carry-ons and two checked bags, she could only manage one carry-on. I haven’t stayed at a true luxury hotel without luggage help or an elevator, and I’ve had better service for both at three-star hotels. Given the price and the gap between the advertised rating and our experience, I’d look for a place with an elevator, luggage service and a gym.

I had a fantastic stay and will book here again when I’m back in Rome. It’s an apartment rather than a hotel, and the entry instructions arrive by email in advance. Communication with the team was first class, and the maid on site was exceptional, doing everything she could to get us settled. The rooms have a high-quality, authentic finish. Outside shutters block the light, while the double glazing keeps street noise out, though I liked leaving the window open to hear the city. We booked a taxi pickup, and the trip took about 45 minutes. A couple of small things for the owners to consider: the tabletop ironing board was awkward to use, even though there’s room in the cupboard for a full-size one. The safe was also small, freestanding, and a struggle to fit two iPads in. I’d have felt better if it were fixed in place.

We really enjoyed our stay. The bed was comfortable, the place was clean, and the location was nice. It was just difficult to find.

Right in the heart of the city, with tourist sights and good restaurants nearby. Our modern room was spotless, and the service stayed friendly throughout. It’s a lovely new luxury hotel or BnB, and I’d highly recommend it.