Rome Businesses Count Their Blessings With US Pope

The election of Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost as pope has generated enthusiasm in the pontiff's homeland (Credit: AFP)

The election of the first US pope is a godsend to businesses in Rome, as big-spending pilgrims flocking to the Vatican are also expected to spend in the Eternal City.

In the historical Trastevere district with its cobblestoned streets and ancient churches, shopkeepers say tourists from the United States are usually excellent customers -- and tippers.