The Westin Excelsior, Rome

The Westin Excelsior is housed in a grand turn-of-the- century property on the Via Veneto, within one kilometre of Rome's historic sites.

The 319 guestrooms are decorated in 19th-century Empire style with ornate white- and-gold ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and hand- decorated walls. Many rooms have balconies, and all include Heavenly Beds. Modern amenities include air conditioning, Internet connections, satellite television with pay movies, minibars, safes, and marble bathrooms with telephones, bathrobes and slippers.

The hotel offers a number of dining options: Restaurant Doney serves seasonal Mediterranean dishes in a sumptuous but informal setting overlooking the Via Veneto; club Doney offers snacks and drinks in a stylish, contemporary setting; the hotel piano bar serves drinks and cocktails along with late breakfast and light refreshments throughout the day.

Guests can workout in the health club's fully-equipped fitness room, cool off in the Roman style indoor pool and relax with a massage, sauna, steam, or a beauty treatment. Those on business can benefit from seven meeting rooms and a range of audio-visual equipment, and any visitors arriving by car will find valet parking onsite. Practical amenities include 24-hour room service, laundry facilities, and a multilingual concierge service, which can assist with any sightseeing needs.

Nearby attractions include Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum, the Coliseum, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, which are all within one and a half kilometres of the hotel. Fiumicino Airport is 30 kilometres away and takes approximately 45 minutes to reach by car.