My secret tip for an affordable vacation is to stay at a Monastery. I loved Villano Noel in Prati, Rome.

Don't get me wrong! I love staying in nice places, but I also love saving money! That is why I was so thrilled to discover Villino Noel.

The guesthouse is run by the Suore Oblate dell’Assunzione. People are often amused to learn that I like staying with the nuns when in Rome. But I have stayed at Villano Noel often enough that the sisters now recognize me!

The rooms are basic but immaculate. You'll have your own bathroom, and there’s excellent Wi-Fi. But don't expect amenities like bathrobes and a pile of fluffy towels. Everything is simple: a bed, desk and wardrobe with towels and hairdryer.

The price includes a Roman breakfast at the cafe next door... coffee, and a cornetto.

Villiano Noel is a 5-minute walk to the entrance of the Vatican Museums, under a 10-minute walk to the metro. A small grocery store is next door, and a fabulous indoor local food market is across the street.

HOW TO GET TO THE HOTEL FROM THE AIRPORT:

Take the Leonardo Express from the airport to the Termini Train Station. Take metro line A (towards Battistini) to the Cirpo Metro stop.

To book, you need to go through the Monastery Stays website. They have over 50 locations in Rome. Request where you want to stay with dates; they will confirm in 2-3 days. While it's not as straightforward as booking on a hotel website with instant confirmation, the money you save makes the extra effort worthwhile.