Re: Rome…if you lean Marriotts then the St. Regis is one of their premier properties in the world, and the Westin Excelsior is very nice in its own right. When I was there this past July, I also walked into the Pantheon Autograph collection and liked it but admittedly have never stayed there…it’s in a great location too. For food, have any of you ever eaten at Osteria 44? Look it up, it’s a short walk from the aforementioned St. Regis and maybe another block or two further from the Westin. The owner Sergio welcomed us each of our three visits, tossed our menus and guided us through various 4 or 5 course meals, all have been among my favorite dining experiences anywhere, much less in Rome. It’s exceptional. This goes for most of Italy IMO but I agree with whomever said go a couple blocks away from the tourist spots for the best food, at much better values too. Example around the Parthenon, we are a couple of times at a place mostly filled by locals called Enoteca Corsi. Very good. For Venice, JW is best value but as I’m sure you know requires a water taxi everywhere. Have you looked at Gritti Palace or Hotel Danieli? I can’t wait to get back to Italy, next time for a month hopefully.