rome blog

Do you remember when having a tattoo was a synonym for the word lout and it was assumed that a tattooed person was somebody with a bad reputation along with a sinister life? So, nowadays, the tattoo’s tacky seafarer image is long a thing of the past. There is an endless list of celebrities getting tattoos, from models, actors, soccer players and, of course, musicians.

But you must remember that tattoos are forever and almost irreversible, unless you want to remove them with surgery, but there is a risk for your skin and the result can be a disaster.
Let me tell you about a surrealistic case, by way of illustration: Johnny Depp, in full ecstasy of love for his girlfriend in those days, Winona Ryder, he had “Winona forever” tattooed on his arm. After the broke up, he had the ‘n’ and ‘a’ surgically removed to simply say “Wino forever!” Not stylish at all, isn’t it?

Haute Couture Tattoos
Well, if you don’t want to run the risk of going through this embarrassing situation, the always surprising Karl Lagerfeld has created for this spring the first line of Chanel transfers. The result is similar to a real tattoo, in the shape of necklaces and chains featuring the brand logo and floral decorations.

The instructions for use are a bit of water, then you can choose a part of your body and that’s all… we have a temporary Chanel accessory. There are several varieties too: the iconic double C’s, chain bracelets, rosary beads and little birdies. You could choose between fifty-five different designs, packaged under the name of Les Trompe L’Oeil de Chanel that will start selling online for around 50 Euros from March 1st.
You don’t need to get yourself inked anymore! And you will be real posh with your Haute Couture tattoo! Find out what the buzz is about and how to style them!

Show off your Chanel tattoo when you visit the charming Italian capital. And don’t forget to book Apartments in Rome, a very handy way to get budget accommodation.

Hello Kitty is back in fashion. But if you think about it, it has been always fashionable and it has been part of the childhood, adolescence and adult life of many women all over the world. Here are some facts about this character-icon that has been reproduced in so many notebooks, pencil holders, towels, backpacks, mugs, umbrellas, hats and so many other things. Hello Kitty was born in Tokio in the Sanrio Company in 1974.

The first object with the cute little cat was a plastic purse in 1975. From Japan, the brand was spread first to the U.S. and then to the rest of the world, becoming popular, even among the celebrities. Celebrities like Paris Hilton and Mariah Carey love Hello Kitty accessories.

From the Hello Kitty character we have seen an emergence in cartoons, video games and even a musical: on February 9th, it was premiered in Milan the Hello Kitty Show. This is a musical based on a modern fairy tale in which three girls of 18 years old search their dreams. Hello Kitty bursts into their lives and… to discover the rest of the story we invite you to see this original musical. Do not miss it!

The Show is perfect to go to with the whole family. The elaborate set design and music that moves from jazz, pop and rock, have been designed to attract a diverse audience. The choreographies also go through fashionable rhythms such as hip hop and break dance. As you can see, this is a stunting show. Even the most demanding visitors will be charmed!

The show will go through several Italian cities before touring to other European countries. Have you ever been to the Eternal City? This could be an excellent occasion. Maybe this time you can convince your partner or children to go with you. From March 17th to the 21st you have the opportunity to see the Hello Kitty Show at the Teatro Olimpico in Rome. Do not worry if you do not have a shirt nor a bag with the kitten, in the Italian capital there are so many stores that you will not have any problem to find them. For an affordable, convenient accommodation, rent Apartments in Rome and purchase your tickets as soon as possible.

Will the Pope be the man of the year? At 82 years of age, Benedict sixth will sing for the album Alma Mater. Music from the Vatican is his classical album nominated to compete at the Classical Brit Awards. On the 13th of May, this contest will reveal the best classic songs from the UK for 2010. Let us pray for the Pope to win!

More than a Pope

But Benedict is more than a Pope, he is a modern Pope who appreciates classical music but also pop music: Michael Jackson’s Thriller is part of his top ten albums, along with songs from U2 and Oasis, according to L’Osservatore Romano. A time after he became Bishop of Rome, he received an mp3 with Mozart and Chopin music, and he made his own papal play list.

Perhaps it may be completely insane that the symbol of Christian faith represents England at the Classical Brit Awards, because he puts on the skin of any music star. Some people think he can’t use this medium to bring together the masses. But we are in 2010, you know…

Papal Music

But you might also love the idea of such an active Pope and the fact he loves today’s music. He has lived through many changes of our society and he can participate as well! It’s the public who may vote for the Pope, so mark this deadline: April 23rd. Maybe his classical song will be the best of the year! The prize will be given at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

When we think about the Pope, not only the religious presence comes to mind, but we think about the Vatican as well and Italy in particular. We recommend a stay in Rome to discover the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica. And if you rent Apartments in Rome, you’ll have the best accommodation.

We all know that nowadays the media is almost only speaking about sex, being in love and cheating: teenagers and their first kiss, teenagers and their first petting, teenagers and their first time… But unfortunately, reality seems to be different, because the number of people over 30 who are still a virgin is incredibly high. A life without sex, kisses and cuddling is the bitter truth for most of the lonesome hearts of today’s society. But how can it be that so many people, even in an adult age, have such issues with love matters?

For most of the people, excluding all the clergymen of course, a life without sex and tenderness is unimaginable. Almost every one has already had one or more partners and normally we start with those little first love affairs at an early age. And then, there are the “others”, those who often sit in a corner and are so nice and good-hearted, but act completely insecurely. Of course, shyness is nothing bad, because there are loads of hyperactive people, who always have to be in the centre of attention. However, this special kind of person has problems to connect with other people. And here, we are not talking about finding friends, but about finding the right boyfriend or girlfriend.

There are no representative studies or surveys to provide us with more facts about this phenomenon, because the affected persons are too ashamed of telling others that they are 35 and still a virgin. This is completely understandable. But what we can say is that it doesn’t only concern a certain social class: lawyers, pilots, professors, musicians, students, unemployed…Psychologists think that certain happenings and behaviours during childhood can be the reason why we have people over 40 who are still virgins.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with adults who haven’t had sex yet. If the right moment hasn’t already occurred, there is no point in forcing it either. But the majority of the affected persons suffer from not having sexual experiences. They are unhappy and even depressive. Very often they only need to be encouraged a little bit. This is exactly why there are a lot of social groups which try to help them out. Mutual help and support is the alpha and omega for discovering sexuality step by step.

Whether single, married or virgin, some relaxing holidays are a good idea for everyone. What about a trip to the enchanting Italian capital? Not without reason, the eternal city is also called the open air museum. Rent the comfortable and economic Apartments in Rome and let yourself be guided by the impressive charm of the city.

The Coliseum of the ancient Rome was the venue for some traditional games such as horse races and gladiatorial combats. Today, the Coliseum has become a great monument to visit and is also the meeting point for the Rome Marathon. Thus, on the 21st of March, it will hold its 16th edition, where the athletes will run close to the Plaza of Spain, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica…

Over 11,000 professional racers prepare for this 2010 marathon, a day during which the old streets of Rome will become the centre of the largest Italian race of the year. In 2009, the men’s record was hit by Benjamin Kiptoo Koulum of Kenya, with a time of 2:07:17. And in the women’s category, Firehiwot Dado of Ethiopia, won with a time of 2:27:08.

On March 18th, 19th and 20th, you can take advantage of the concerts, the shows and the shops that will occupy the Palazzo dei Congressi specially called the “Marathon Village” for the sporting event. Discover its beautiful terrace with gardens, frescos and futuristic mosaics…

For the families, children, grandparents and friends who would also like to participate in a race, they have organized a “Fun Run” also called the “Stracittadina” – that held a record 80,000 participants in 2009. This is a non-competitive 4Km race that begins 15min after the official Marathon and ends in the ruins of the Domus Aurea Palce, the Emperor Nero’s Golden House. People with disabilities are encouraged to participate as they will receive special prizes.

Everything is planned to offer the public an unforgettable day of excitement. One must not forget that the spring time will make everything more enjoyable. As a spectator it is also an unforgettable experience: so many people running through all these architectural jewels of Italian history, just exquisite! Book a ticket and rent Apartments in Rome where a unique stay awaits you.

Nowadays the media is full of sex, sex and…sex. Apparently the society of the 21st century only thinks of the most beautiful thing on earth. But to be honest, we all know that this gabbing on TV doesn’t correspond to reality. Of course there are a lot of people who can’t imagine a life without having sex. On the other side, most of those who are in a long partnership have less sex with their partner. Sex without love is legitimate, but love without sex is apparently very different. What do you think?

Everything seems to be perfect: common interests, harmonious atmosphere, common activities, getting along living together….but no sex. There are a lot of couples where you can really think that they are more like brothers and sisters or best friends than a real couple in love. Although it’s comprehensible that after some years of relationship the sexual desire decreases, but putting a final end under the chapter of your own sexual life is very doubtful. So, is sex really so important in a partnership?

Well, the opinions differ a lot on this question. It is known that sex provides vitality and good humour in a relationship, because uncountable hormones are transmitted during the act of love. Different surveys also show that sex is important for affirmation of masculinity and femininity. However, according to representative studies, only 16% of the enquired persons, say sex is indispensable, while 6% could live without it. But the lack of sex doesn’t necessarily mean that the couple don’t interchange kisses, hugs and cuddling.

The most important thing in a relationship is the feeling of “unity”. To feel completely connected to somebody is like winning the lottery. Of course tensions and problems occur during the relationship, but they only make the relationship stronger. If both partners are ok with not sleeping together (whatever the reasons are) then it’s completely legitimate. But it’s as well an exception. Because often enough it’s only one of the two partners who doesn’t feel sexual desires, while the other one still longs for intimate hours with his or her partner, but due to love he or she demonstrates a 100% understanding for the decision. But be careful! In the long run it could end dramatically, because we all are just human beings with certain instincts and drives….

But if you still feel sexual desires, but your everyday life is so stressful, that you only give your partner a sweet kiss in bed and fall asleep within seconds, then you definitely need some vacations. Surprise your partner with a nice trip to the enchanting Italian capital. Rent the best apartments in Rome and spend some passionate hours in a comfortable and economic accommodation.

We all know that love is one of the most beautiful things in the world. But shortly after the phase of those butterflies in your stomach, disillusionment follows. During a relationship you get to know your partner even better, and this can be positive or negative. All those little relationship problems seem to be less important at the beginning, but as the years go by, they are accumulating, kind of like a time bomb ready to explode. Exactly at this moment is when you have to act. But what should you do? Does a temporary separation really make sense? Can the old loving relationship really be saved or is keeping this distance the beginning of the end?

‘Honey, I need a break’. This could be the worst sentence you’ve ever heard in life. But each relationship and every person has their own personal ways of dealing with these situations. On one end we find couples who don’t talk at all and suppress their feelings and the extreme would be the opposite, couples screaming and throwing things at each other. However, the most important thing is to remain true to oneself and act according to what your heart and mind is telling you. A temporary separation can be very useful. Because very often you only need some time and space for thinking and therefore disconnecting from all your problems. Step by step and with distance you will be conscious about what you really want. And perhaps with a break you notice how much you truly miss your partner. But, of course, you could feel totally different. You might feel so free and much happier than you’ve ever felt in a long time.

The reasons for a potential separation vary in each case: extreme jealousy, cheating or maybe just losing the love for your partner. ‘You don’t notice this until it’s gone’. This sentence is so true. In our stressful everyday life we tend to focus on the negative characteristics of our partner, and suddenly all of the positive things are completely forgotten. So, relax a little bit, take it step by step and you’ll see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, this could either mean putting an end to your relationship or maybe just a fresh new start to it.

But a temporary separation isn’t always necessary for clearing up your heartaches. Very often some romantic holidays can solve these problems. What about some relaxing days in one of the most enchanting cities of Italy? Rent the comfortable and economic apartments in Rome and spice things up with your partner.

Sexting is one of the latest fashions that have arisen during this digital age. The term comes from the fusion of the words sex and texting (sending SMS messages via mobile phones). It consists of sending erotic or images and flirty text messages via your mobile phone. This practice has become increasingly common among the adolescents throughout the world who unwittingly take serious risks that can undermine their physical, moral or moral status.

Although it is not a practice that concerns only the youth, it is true that those are the ones who most practice it, and especially the girls. What they usually do is take a naughty photo of themselves and send it to someone else: their partner or girlfriend etc, so as to fool around or just feel wanted.

If the two people who practice sexting are older and do it right, then there’s no problem. The conflict arises when these images are filtered and circulate without permission or, even worse, posted on the Internet.

In fact, in order to avoid problems, some U.S. states have made some legislative changes to avoid the possible adverse effects of sexting, because the management (production, possession or distribution) of sexually explicit images of children is considered child pornography.

Thus, this apparent juvenile game, stops being a game when the image spreads beyond their own terminal. Once the message is sent, the person completely loses control over the picture or video in question, unable to know the consequences or the final destination. If this is already worrying, the problem is even worse when the image becomes the centre of mockery and turns into a type of bullying. Jessie Logan, a 19 year old girl committed suicide after sending a naked picture of herself to her boyfriend which he then used to make fun of her with his friends. Another teenager from Florida received nude photos of his girlfriend on his mobile phone when he was 18 and she was 16. After a fight, the boy forwarded the photo to dozens of friends and relatives of the girl and was promptly convicted of child pornography. Cases like these occur with alarming frequency.

Today the privacy concept is changing rapidly due to the digital age: mobile, Internet, social networking, chat and web cams to name but a few. Therefore, sexting is expanding rapidly. Avoid it like the plague if you don’t want your privacy plasted all over the net! If you really want your boyfriend to enjoy himself, surprise him with a few relaxing days in the Italian capital. And for more privacy, rent Apartments in Rome. You’ll have a great time together!

The horrific earthquake that devastated Haiti on January 12th, the poorest country in America, has left the whole world shocked. Fortunately, the humanitarian help is arriving and, most important, is being controlled and supervised. But governments and humanitarian organizations are not the only ones who are helping the Haitian people to overcome this huge tragedy. Noted celebrities (musicians, actors, models) are planning gestures of solidarity for Haiti.

It all started in USA with the two-hour global telethon “Hope for Haiti”, hosted by George Clooney. The act was broadcasted by major TV channels and raised more than $ 57 millions (40 millions Euros, more or less) in donations from the general public to date. It could be watched also across the world through MTV and YouTube.

Recently, it’s been known that the celebrated song “We are the world”, written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, will be recorded again with artists like Lil Wayne, Kanye West or Pink, in support of Haitian earthquake relief.

But these are not the only signs of solidarity that celebrities have shown. The actor John Travolta sent his own plane –a Boeing 707- to provide relief materials including food and medicines…and some volunteer ministers from his church - the Church of Scientology (nobody’s perfect…). Prominent figures in show business like Susan Sarandon, Meryl Streep or Britney Spears have cleaned out their wardrobes to auction their best and most photographed dresses.

Musicians are also supporting the cause with many different gestures: Colombian singer Shakira has undertaken to build a school in Haiti, through her Barefoot Foundation.

Wilco’s members, the Chicago-based band, allowed their website users to download free concerts for a $15 donation. Or Chris Martin, Coldplay’s lead vocalist, who has auctioned a signed jacket from his last tour “Viva la Vida”. These are just a few examples of the many actions by famous people to benefit the earthquake victims. Good for them!

Why not rent apartments in Rome and try to find some events supporting the Haiti earthquake. Everything counts!

The new technologies are full of advantages: a clearer picture, a more involving sound, many more gadgets, more speed, efficiency, etc. But they also have one big disadvantage: its early expiry date. The new technologies are not affected by the crisis and evolve at the speed of light, but they expire too quickly. Who has not ever bought a new-generation mobile that the following month is old hat? Pay attention to what products will become obsolete in 2010!

DVDs: You have already built up an extensive DVD film library perhaps. Well soon, they’ll be a thing of the past just like the old VHS video. The same thing will happen with other players like the car radios, the CD players, etc. The USB port is gaining ground, because it can reproduce more formats, it has more capacity and what’s more important, all this in less space.

GPS: Tom Tom are literally pulling their hair out as the mobile telephones are beginning to tread on their patch…. Increasingly, the new telephone terminals include a browser among its many gadgets. This is the case of the Nokia N95, N96 or N97, which incorporate a really reliable navigation program. This is also the case of the Blackberry and the iPhone, which have become two of the top selling devices with incorporated browsers. We save some money and avoid having so many knick-knacks!

Digital cameras: Yes, it seems that digital cameras will tend to disappear. The mobiles, once again, will provide tough competition. Today, they incorporate high-quality cameras with the same amount of mega pixels as the conventional digital cameras. One of the biggest advantages of having a camera on a phone is that we always carry them with us. This way we can always capture those special moments!

The traditional mobile battery chargers: are you fed up with the need of different mobile battery chargers for each phone? The universal battery charger has finally made a guest appearance! From now it doesn’t matter the model or the brand of your phone. With this universal battery charger, your mobile will always have a full battery. And if you forget yours at home, no problem, as any friend can lend you his! Now you can get rid of the 20 different models stored in the drawer of your bedside cabinet!

Conventional laptops: say goodbye to the heavy and bulky laptops. Today’s computers tend to fuse increasingly with the mobile phones. For the lovers of the latest technologies, there is the new Apple iPad, a hybrid between a mobile and a computer. Run to clean up your closet because you will need plenty of space for the latest in high tech gadgets. What will never go out of fashion though is travelling. How about a trip to the Italian capital? Take your new generation mobile and buy your tickets now. To find that all important accommodation, why not rent apartments in Rome.