Who wants to be a Roman gladiator? (Me please!)

[caption id="attachment_817" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Pic by Sandro Bedessi, from Fototeca ENIT[/caption]

As the kids get older, city breaks seem like a great idea for a short holiday. The problem is which city to choose? I'd love to go to Scandinavia (Oslo or Stockholm, for example) and I know that my daughter is desperate to go to Rome. My son, however, does not appear to be particularly in favour of a trip to Italy's capital. But a new offering could change his mind....

I was fascinated to hear about the new Gladiator Weekends at the Rome Cavalieri hotel. Aimed squarely at families (parents in search of culture and kids in search of fun), it includes a Gladiator lesson where you will learn ancient combat techniques along with details about the life and times of the gladiators. You even get the right kit, plus a guided tour of the Coliseum (where, of course the gladiators fought for their lives).

The hotel itself looks super luxurious, and families booking a deluxe room get another for half-price. The kids are even offered pizza making sessions (someone has done their homework on what children enjoy doing.....)

Prices start from 1960 Euros per family for two nights, which is around £1,550, so it's not cheap. However, it does sound terrific fun and it is part of the Waldorf Astoria group so you'll be enjoying luxury!