House of Augustus opens to public

The complete article, including a few photos, is available at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7286305.stm

I watched the first two episodes of Terry Jones Barbarians two weeks ago and so have been more interested in Rome.

Bryant
Check it out --> http://politicalcomment.blogspot.com

the few pictures at story are amazing.
recommend

Venice is at the top of the list; I want to see it before it crumbles completely into the rising sea. But Rome is up there too. Unfortunately, the cities are really not close enough together to take them in on the same trip.

And Florence, I'd say, is a more delightful stay than Rome - though Rome is a must visit.

I can fly British Airways from Seattle to London, then London to Milan. Spend three nights there (arrive late afternoon, then two days of sightseeing), take the train to Florence for two nights (a day and a half of sightseeing) then two nights in Venice. Fly from Venice back to London for a few days (the flight to/from Venice goes through Gatwick; the flight to/from Seattle through Heathrow. I might as well spend at least one night in London rather than try to switch airports.)

Problem is, between Italy's strong economy and the falling dollar, this would be the most expensive vacation I've ever taken. That's why I haven't done it yet.

Doesn't have a lot to do with your trip, though Lufthansa is a relative delight to fly on.

As for me, I'm trying to figure out how to package Sicily with almost any other destination in Italy. I'd also love to return to Florence,though having done Rome once I don't feel a strong need to return.

close enough, relatively speaking and by American standards of what a long drive is :-). Also trains in Italy are aplenty, and at least the last time I used them (quite a while back) quite cheap. Don't miss Rome, it's unbelievable, and not only in terms of touristic attractions. And if at all possible, avoid summer (very warm, very expensive, very crowded).

Northern Italy and the area around Rome both deserve a week each. I would rather make two trips and enjoy a leisurely pace that leaves me with clear, enjoyable memories than try to squeeze everything in to one hectic, stress-filled visit where I was too rushed to have fun.

(this Bachelor of Art History lo-o-o-oves stuff like this)