Gregorio Vii Luxury Suites San Damaso

The rooms have plenty of equipment, including a jacuzzi, and it’s about 15 minutes from the Vatican. The entrance is a little unusual.

There’s no security for your luggage or personal belongings, and the broom closet is out on the balcony beyond the bedroom. The bed had no pillow, and the place smelled of bleach. A large apartment has been split into two suites linked by a balcony, with a tiny hallway where you’re greeted. Our romantic weekend turned into a disaster. They call this a grand luxury suite, but it’s luxury in name only. I strongly advise against staying here.

I slept better than I have in at least three years. As a professor abroad, I have very high expectations, and this place exceeded them, especially for the price and convenient location. The mattress was fantastic. The room is elegant, with a brand-name smart TV that’s supposedly 55 inches. I’m writing this from the comfortable Jacuzzi, relaxing under the LED lights during a chromotherapy session. It feels like home here. This morning, after checking I was awake, the very kind receptionist Imran came by discreetly to offer housekeeping. I politely declined because I’m used to cleaning my own home. The apartment is tucked away, 950 meters from the Papal Residence of Santa Maria, with Villa Doria Pamphili practically around the corner. There’s also a limousine service for an incredibly affordable extra cost, which is a nice bonus. There’s no restaurant on site, but we’re in Rome, surrounded by all kinds of typical, authentic Italian restaurants just outside. Thanks to the Gregorio VII team for making my stay so far absolutely perfect. I’m confident the same standard will continue. I may even extend my stay by a few days. Thank you, dear friends.

We booked a particular room a month ahead and asked for it, but the day before we arrived, we got an email noting our preference. When we got there the next day, that room had already been booked. I could have accepted that if I hadn’t paid so much for a slightly larger room. The whirlpool tub wouldn’t even fit one person, and the refrigerator kept us awake all night. All the rooms cost the same, even though they’re not comparable. They’ve lost a customer.