The Tribune Hotel

Interiors at this design-conscious boutique hotel are meant to impress and they certainly exhibit plenty of style. Purple and black dominate the lobby and breakfast room, with plum-colored walls bolstered by gold shelves displaying books, vases, and curios, as well as black-and-white photos and other art adorning the walls. Black and white striped marble floors gleam, while an array of velvet yellow armchairs pop against the color scheme and offer a place to lounge in the chic setting. The design continues in the breakfast room, where tufted yellow banquette seating lines the wall, paired with lavender velveteen chairs and striped black-and-white accent walls. These public spaces are dimly lit, however, and the darker color schemes might not suit all tastes. The property offers an upscale experience, but it's a bit low on features, with no restaurant and a small fitness room. Nevertheless, it's an elegant place with high-quality service that mainly attracts couples and tourists visiting the city.

The hotel is located by the lovely landscaped gardens of Villa Borghese park. There's an array of upscale and luxury hotels in the area, as well as a choice of dining options. The nearest metro station, Barberini, is a nine-minute walk away. A handful of attractions are within walking distance of the property, such as the Borghese Gallery and Museum (eight-minute walk), the Spanish Steps (18-minute walk), and the Trevi Fountain (20-minute walk). The Colosseum can be reached in 20 minutes via public transportation, and the Vatican is about a half-hour away. Roma Termini train station is about 12 minutes away via public transportation, or it's a 10-minute drive. Fiumicino Airport is about a 40-minute drive (depending on traffic, can be more), or around an hour by public transportation. Ciampino Airport is around a half-hour drive or a bit over an hour via public transit.

Rooms are toned down in comparison with the lobby, but still feature a sleek contemporary design clad in cool neutral hues, with pops of color courtesy of accents like velvet russet pillows against white bedding and end-of-bed stools or deep purple headboards and bed runners. The spaces are clean, with a crisp kind of decor that feels elegant. Framed black-and-white photos adorn walls that include white wainscoting popping against gray-mauve. Large headboards are emblazoned with a subtle pattern that looks luxe, like a contemporary version of an old Roman pattern. Even carpets are chic, with a herringbone-like motif. Desks provide a space to work, plus there's free Wi-Fi. Other amenities include flat-screen TVs, both Nespresso machines as well as electric kettles, and free minibars stocked with bottled waters, soda, and chips. Guests also receive smartphones during their stay with free internet and international calls, a nice perk that makes navigating around the city easier.Bathrooms, though a bit small, are stylish and modern, with shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads or walk-in rainfall showers, as well as heated towel racks, and separate toilet rooms with bidets. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Higher-category rooms, like Deluxe Rooms and Suites, have both soaking tubs and separate walk-in rainfall showers.Entry-level Classic Rooms start out at 194 square feet (18 square meters), while next level up, Superior Rooms, are 237 square feet (22 square meters). Executive Rooms have a bit more space, measuring 269 square feet (25 square meters). Deluxe Rooms add seating and measure 290 square feet (27 square meters). The largest option is the Open Suite, which are 323 square feet (30 square meters). Some rooms open on to terraces with seating. Note that there have been some complaints of noise issues due to poor soundproofing.

Features are few, but elegant. A highlight is the rooftop terrace, a large space with loungers as well as tables and chairs, offering a pleasant space to relax in and admire views over surrounding rooftops. The terrace has a bar and is a nice spot for an aperitivo before dinner or catching the sunset.Rates include an ample American buffet breakfast, which is served in the hotel's breakfast room and features an extensive selection of eggs, bacon, cold cuts, cheeses, pastries, and coffee. Other amenities include a small fitness room, but it's equipped with just three modern TechnoGym machines -- including a treadmill and an elliptical. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.