We may be moving to Casa Polloco area of Rome in a few months. Is there many playgrounds, zoos or other places for children to play? Do kids ride bicycles there?

Hi,

If you have to live in Rome with kids, Casal Palocco is (in my opinion) about the best place to be. Housing is cheaper than the centre, so you are likely to be able to afford a place with a garden and a good amount of internal space. There are lots of playgrounds and the area is nice and green. Kids do cycle (my 3-year old bikes to nursery) although you have to avoid certain busy roads. There are lots of shops within walking distance so you don't have to get in the car every time you need to run an errand. The other advantage is being only a couple of miles from the beach.

The main disadvantages are the heavy traffic into/out of the centre at rush hour, meaning a tiresome commute, and of course that you are not right in the heart of historic Rome.

If you want more info on the area before you move, please feel free to e-mail me.

Alison

A wonderful interactive place to take small children is the Bioparco zoo.

Here is a link for you in English

http://www.bioparco.it/forma/bioparco_eng/bioparco_eng_ID737.php

I live in Casal Polocco and enjoy going to the Olgiata golf club in the neighbourhood. You should definitely sign up if you are going to be in the area any length of time. A great place to make new friends. sebastian

So how was the move? Are you fully installed in Rome yet? What are your first impressions?