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Budget Housing in Convents & Monasteries

Families with more subdued children may be interested in the experience of staying in an Italian monastery, an affordable lodging option favored by many Italian travelers.

"The Guide to Lodging in Italy's Monasteries" by Eileen Barish ($22.95) suggests more than 400 monasteries around the country that welcome visitors, though Ms. Barish cautions that their austerity of decor (though many display great Renaissance art), curfews, simple but hearty meals, and "quiet and contemplative" atmosphere are very different than what many travelers are used to. To order the guidebook, visit www.monasteriesofitaly.com or call 800/638-3637.

In a similar vein, the mother/daughter team of June and Anne Walsh have produced "Bed and Blessings: Italy, A guide to Convents and Monasteries Available for Overnight Lodging" ($16.95) with detailed listings of 130 convents and monasteries from $30/bed per night, which welcome travelers regardless of religious affiliation. You'll learn the curfew hours, meal options, languages spoken, and even which ones accept credit cards! Call Paulist Press at 800/218-1903 to order an updated copy.

Apartment Rentals

Rental in Rome ( 06/99320047) provides information on vacation rental apartments and B&B's in premier Rome neighborhoods.