The unquenchable thirst for exploration and discovery has entranced the hearts and minds of travelers throughout the ages. For many, the pull of the unknown is irresistible, leading them on voyages that transport them to the wonders of the ancient world. One such marvel that has enchanted generations of adventurers is the Colosseum in Rome, a testament to the enduring power of human ingenuity and the allure of cultures long past.
As visitors from around the globe flock to marvel at the Colosseum’s colossal grandeur, they are not merely sightseeing, but embarking on a profound cultural exchange. It is no secret that when people travel, they want to taste the local cuisine which is as much a priority as seeing the celebrated sights. This desire to engage with a destination’s food culture is a key driver of the food tourism enterprise.
The hospitality industry that has blossomed around this legendary landmark serves as a conduit, facilitating meaningful connections between globetrotters and the local community. Through these interactions, visitors not only bear witness to the majesty of Rome’s ancient wonders, but also immerse themselves in the rich societal fabric of contemporary Italian life, reveling in flavors of Michelin-starred gastronomy that seamlessly blend tradition and transformation.
The benefits of journeying extend far beyond the walls of the Colosseum, however. The act of venturing into the unknown broadens our perspectives, challenges our assumptions, and promotes a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experience. In an era when the world seems ever more connected, the drive to explore the wonders of the globe has never been more pronounced, nor the need for safe and responsible tourism more pressing.


By fostering an environment of trust and minimizing risks, these measures can encourage more travelers to engage with diverse cultures, support local economies, and contribute to the sustainable development of the tourism industry as a whole.
This hippodrome’s legacy extends beyond architectural wonders, flora and fauna, as it serves as a touchstone for the rich culinary heritage of ancient Rome. The lavish banquets and feasts accompanied the spectacles held within its walls offer a fascinating window of the Roman elite.
A Timeless Tribute
Also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, it stood as a testament to the ingenious engineering and architectural prowess of the ancient Romans. This epic structure, a gift from the Flavian emperors, had weathered the passage of two millennia, its enduring magnificence enthralling the imagination of all who laid eyes upon it.
Constructed over the span of eight years, the Colosseum’s sheer scale was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Boasting a seating capacity of a staggering eighty thousand spectators, this vast arena was designed to the thrilling enactments of naval battles.



At the heart of the Colosseum’s architectural marvels was its retractable roof, known as the velarium. This intricate system of ropes, pulleys, and masts allowed the Romans to unfurl a massive canvas awning that could cover the entire opening, providing vital shade and protection from the elements for the eager crowds below.
The Amphitheatre’s construction, a true testament to Roman ingenuity, was no less impressive. Crafted from the finest travertine stone, the structure’s enduring beauty was further enhanced by the presence of exquisite marble, some of which still graces the uppermost tiers to this day.
The wonder of the Colosseum, however, is not the only draw to visit Rome. By its very nature, wanderlust drives travelers from far and wide to enjoy in the hospitality and cuisine of Rome.
Michelin-starred La Terrassa- Dorchester Collection, Hotel Eden
Today, a new generation of Michelin-starred chefs, molecular gastronomy and avant-garde draw inspiration from the ancient culinary traditions, reinterpreting, and reinvigorating them for modern palates.
Helmed by renowned Executive Chef Fabio Ciervo, a maestro who holds his baton with immense pride and conducts a concert of his flawless masterpieces in his room with a view.
It was a privilege to meet Chef Fabio in his pristine kitchen, during my book tour in Rome. He eloquently summed up his culinary philosophy: ingredients, well-being, innovation, flavor, and art.
The La Terrassa menu is a classic mix of traditional Roman recipes from the Lazio region and influences from Campania that present an incomparable culinary sensual. There are not enough superlatives to describe Chef Fabio’s hospitality towards us during our visit.
Roma Hassler
Imago, the one Michelin-starred, panoramic restaurant, located within luxurious Hassler Hotel atop the applauded Spanish Steps in Rome - appropriately coined as the ‘stairway to heaven’.
Helmed by acclaimed Chef Andrea Antonini, the restaurant offers guests a truly invigorating dining experience, with Antonio’s modernistic and imaginative take on Italian cuisine.
We were fortunate to stay at the renowned Roma Hassler during my book tour where I found myself captivated by the Wirth family stories. Roberto Wirth’s love and passion for hospitality have left a mark across the many areas he has touched.
I was honored to receive a book about the hotel from the guest relations team, it tells the story of the Buchers and the Wirths, two dynasties that crossed paths twice: first in the second half of the nineteenth century and then again, sixty years later, in 1949. It briefly narrates the European hotel industry, travel, and transport. The prolific book now holds a prominent place in my personal library.
Hospitality Never Sleeps
The hospitality imperative in Rome is driven by a zeal to empower freedom of experience. This sense of serendipity allows a deeper connection with customers.
Whether it is a slice of wood-fired, thin-crust Neapolitan pizza with quintessential creamy buffalo mozzarella and sweet plum San Marzano tomatoes, enjoyed on the iconic Spanish Steps.



Or maybe it’s the effervescent delight of a glass of Prosecco, its bubbles dancing across the palate as you toast to the joy of the moment, seated at the rooftop bar of BVLGARI, surrounded by breathtaking views of Rome. Perhaps even taking extraordinary pictures of the dramatic baroque sculptures at Tevi Fountain.
These seemingly simple pleasures, when imbued with the spirit of tradition and cultural resonance, become portals into worlds beyond our own. They connect us to the generations of artisans, farmers, and purveyors who have painstakingly honed their crafts, and to communities who have gathered around these time-honored practices. We don’t just consume, we engage, we become part of the living, breathing mosaic that defines a place and its people.
This summer, sonder into the wonders that await, from the grand monuments that echo with stories of the past, to the delectable flavors that nourish the soul. Unlock the transformative power to travel by opening your mind and heart to the rich complexities that lie beneath the surface. For it is in this spirit of profound exploration and connection that the true marvels of the world will reveal themselves.
So, “when in Rome”…… Arrivederci!