VIVIANA COLOMBASSI
Occupation: Owner of a Wedding Planning Company
Children: Altea, 6; Paolo, 5; Nora, 8 months
MY STYLE: Simple and timeless. I also have a love for vintage stuff. I often wear basic colors like beige, brown, the Armani’s “greige” together with a touch of red or a strong color.
I LOVE ROME BECAUSE: Rome is charming. I feel every day is a vacation even when I’m going to work. The weather is always nice and there is a big park in the center, Villa Borghese, so it’s easy to bike around with the kids, go for a walk, let them play, have a picnic, and have fun all together.
Auditorium Parco della Musica
Every year, about one million people visit Parco della Musica’s concert halls—including Cavea, the amphitheater reminiscent of the ancient Roman tradition despite its modern design. But rather than gladiatorial combat, they come for musical performances ranging from pop to opera, as well as other cultural events. The scarab-shaped buildings, designed by Renzo Piano (also the designer of Paris’ famous Centre Pompidou) sit within the vicinity of the 1960 Olympics. Piano altered his plan to accommodate remains of a 6th century villa discovered during construction. You can see these artifacts, and learn about the architectural and acoustical characteristics of the modern structure, during a guided tour of the auditorium. “In winter, there’s also a skating rink that’s great for kids,” says Flavia Padovan.
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Villa Borghese
Cardinal Scipione Borghese commissioned the English-style gardens surrounding his opulent "party villa" in the 1600s. Today, they constitute Rome's central park, and the perfect setting for more modest gatherings like family picnics or bike tours. The "floating" Ionic temple dedicated to Aesculapius is a must-see. In the warmer month, kids can ride ponies, paddleboats, and even hot air balloons (with some adult supervision, of course), or see a puppet show. To beat the heat altogether, head inside to the Borghese Gallery or the National Etruscan Museum.
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Suite Sistina
Suite Sistina is designed with privacy in mind—and is known as Rome’s sexiest hotel. The city chic accommodations are made up of nine suites, dispersed through a historic—and romantic—part of Rome. Located near the Spanish Steps and a stroll from the Trevi Fountain, the hotel caters to couples enjoying a discreet getaway. Rome mom and wedding planner Viviana Colombassi calls the stay “very intimate and sexy.” Each room is different, but all are decorated with dramatic hues, soft lighting, antique mosaics, and modern furniture. The hotel also uses state-of-the art technology and all-natural bath products from Lush.
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Planetarium and Astronomical Museum
Located in the same building as the Museum of Roman Civilization, Rome’s Astronomical Museum and adjacent planetarium are fun for all ages. The astronomical wings put Rome in perspective with interactive exhibits about the cosmos, real-time views from space cameras, and auditorium seating from which to enjoy it all. Rome mom and wedding planner Viviana Colombassi says, “My kids love it. Afterwards, it’s easy to have a brunch at the bar, just outside the planetarium where there is also a little lake.”
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TAD
Short for “Tendenze e Antiche Debolezze,” which translates to “trends and old weaknesses,” this high-end department store is a unique conceptual shopping experience. It’s organized in a winding collection of smaller rooms, so wandering around the shop feels like exploring the personal home of an artist rather than a shopping in a department store. A tunnel lit by Technicolor lights invites customers in. From there, shoppers feast their eyes on flowers, to a room of high-end gadgets and fashion from a range of designers. Rome mom and wedding planner Viviana Colombassi says, “I also love TAD. You can find designer clothing from harder-to-find brands, stunning high-end furniture, a florist, a hair salon, and a small café. It also carries a good selection of fragrances, some international magazines. It makes for great sightseeing for anyone interested in design.”
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