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Italy 2012 Guidebook

Best and worst accommodations:

Worst: Hotel Souvenir in Monterosso - Cinque Terro
Why: Numerous problems. Manager wakes everyone up around 6:30am every morning speaking extremely loud for about 2 hours in the courtyard. No one ever in office. Got overcharged. Management promised to refund 30E numerous times over 3 month period, but never sent it. This went on for 3 months before the flood hit. I finally threatened to give them a bad rating in Trip Advisor (which they deserved) if they did not return my money. Then they told me I was trying to blackmail them with a bad review. So I replied very nastily to them and posted the bad review in Trip Advisor.

Jack Hay in White Plains, Md USA 12/22/2011

Best: Panella's Residence Bia Pergola
Why: The BandB made my entire Italian Vacation worth it. My room was very spacious and the host and hostess were full of great ideas of places to go and places to eat. This home was 1500 years old and has been in the family for 7 generations. The hostess, Garziella was so knowledgeable and made you feel at home. The location was near very good areas for shopping and sight seeing. The owner were just so wonderful and interesting and made a wonderful breakfast and capicinio each morning which was enough to get you well unto the day. All fresh ingedients and prepared so beautifully. My stay with Graziella and husband made my Florence trip delightful. I have visited Europe on several occasions and this was the very best accomodations of all the places I have visited. I would highly recommend this BandB to all if you are looking for a conforatable, clean, and friendly place to stay while in Florence. I would have loved to have stayed my entire 11 days just here. I left with the hopes that I would be able to revisit this wonderful home in the near future. I highly recommend that you give it a try as you too will be happy you did! The best accomodation ever! You will feel so welcomed from the moment you arrived until you move on. Graziella is a delight and gave us good ideas on where to eat and sight see to get the real feel of Florence's incredible art work and architecture.

Worst: Leaving was the worst part of a wonderful vacation
Why: I would have stayed there many more nights!

Jenell Griffith in Mobile, Al USA 12/02/2011

Best: Panella's Residence B and B
Why: above recommendation

jenell Griffith in mobile, Al USA 12/02/2011

Best: Panella's Residence B and B
Why: above recommendation

jenell Griffith in mobile, Al USA 12/02/2011

Best: Hotel Modigliani (Rome); Hotel al Piave (Venice); Il Pirata rooms (Vernazza); Residenza Il Villino (Florence)
Why: We stayed 3-4 nights at each and they were all excellent: Clean, well appointed, decent bathroom, good breakfast, excellent location, and all gave helpful, friendly, courteous service. We would stay at every single place again (and we hope that Il Pirata is able to re-open soon).

Worst: None
Why: All were equally excellent and we have nothing negative to say about any of our accommodations, except we wanted to stay longer at all of them.

Karen in Winnipeg, MB Canada 11/27/2011

Best: Il Canto del Sole B & B near Siena
Why: Fabulous place, the hosts were really nice, really generous breakfast, and the dinner we had there was the best of the trip! Great location to travel by car to see the hill towns in Tuscany, really peaceful.

Marina in Washington, DC USA 11/16/2011

Best: Casa Masoli B&B in Ravenna
Why: Great location, big rooms and wonderfully big bathrooms

Marina in Washington, DC USA 11/16/2011

Worst: Loggiato dei Serviti
Why: Loggiato Dei Serviti was in a run-down plaza,nearly deserted but for the poor of Florence waiting on the steps to the hotel, we think for a meal at the nearby church. We were given a room in a nearby "annex", and while a nice room, we did not feel that we were staying in the hotel, as this room was in an apartment building. The only advantage to it was that we did not have to walk through the seamy plaza, as we would have had to if we had stayed at the hotel.

Deborah in Ann Arbor, MI USA 11/09/2011

Worst: Katti House, Florence, IT
Why: Mama speaks no English at all and we never met her daughter, so communication was very limited. It took forever to pay our bill and check out.

Arlene Geist in Seattle, WA USA 11/08/2011

Worst: Hotel Ideale in Assisi
Why: The views from this hotel are wonderful, especially if you have a corner room like we did. The rooms are a bit worn as is the lobby and the stairway. The women staff were nice (we saw very little of them) but we found the father to be gruff and he made us feel like we were an bother. We were rushed through breakfast and didn't dare ask for a second cup of coffee. Not a horrible place and the view might be enough for us to stay again.

Linda in Battle Creek, MI USA 11/07/2011

Best: Palazzina Cesira, Montalcino
Why: Perfect location, large rooms, amazing hospitality by Lucilla and Roberto and a delicious breakfast.

John Osgood in New York, NY USA 11/01/2011

Best: Manuel's Guest house in Monterosso, Casa Selita in Orvieto and Meuble il Ricco in Montepulciano
Why: In every one of these recommended accomodations we were treated as friends, had exceptionally clean and comfortable rooms, were close to all of the sights, and provided with excellent dining recommendations. Two had killer views (Manuel's & Il Riccio) and Casa Selita had the addition of a very special wine tasting experience. All of the breakfasts were great.

Pat in Middletown, DE USA 10/31/2011

Best: Memo Rooms, Vernazza
Why: That infamous day, it took us 17 hours from Gimmelwald to reach Vernazza due to full trains, late trains, and missed connections. We had to wake up Enrica at midnight and asked her to keep the door open for us. She was so nice to mark the path to our room with my name. After a very frustrating day, the room was the most beautiful sight we beheld, not to mention the midnight walk down to the breakwater in deserted Vernazza with warm Mediterranean wind blowing on our faces. Thank you Enrica!

Kay Ishii in Renton, WA USA 10/30/2011

Best: Albergo Marina Sestri Levante
Why: Our hotel was newly updated. It was clean and the staff was fantastic. Our room as well as the common rooms were spacious and inviting. Santo the owner is the BEST! He is friendly, funny and very helpful. He even let my husband (who wanted to take a cooking class) work alongside him one evening. We spent a month in Italy and Albergo Marino was our favorite!

Lee Carlton in Venura, CA USA 10/30/2011

Worst: Nicolina in Vernazza
Why: One of the rooms was advertized as having a hid-a-bed. In my request, I specifically said I would not accept a room with that bed, and of course when I got there, the only room they had was that one. She essentially told me that I misunderstood, and did a bunch of annoying Italian hand waving. Please take Nicolina off your list. The bed is HORRIBLE, maybe OK if you are a college student, but NOT for 80 euros. I could not argue; we had been on the road for 16 hours, and I needed to sleep. VERY annoying owners. I don't like to be accused of lying.

Dale Kingsbury in St. Paul, mn USA 10/28/2011

Best: Villa Cipressi, Varenna
Why: This older style villa hotel was wonderful! We had a lovely view of the lake and a nice dinner in the restaurant. Also we spent part of a nice morning touring the beautiful hotel gardens. Wish we could have stayed longer! Varenna is a lovely town and we also enjoyed the passenger-only boat tour that Rick recommends. Great hop-on, hop-off way to enjoy Lake Como and small towns!

Chuck&Merilee Hill in Chehalis, WA USA 10/24/2011

Best: Nicolas Inn, Rome and Manuel's Guesthouse, Cinque Terre
Why: Melissa at Nicolas Inn was very helpful with great local restaurant recommendations. Nicolas Inn is located near the Forum and within walking distance to the train station.

Manuel's Guesthouse room with balcony - outstanding view (worth the 99 steps). Very friendly staff - welcoming drink, inexpensive honor bar with beer and wine.

Mark and Doreen in Pittsburgh, PA USA 10/21/2011

Best: locandi Rosati in Orvieto
Why: Charming owner, good location, delicious food

Jodi Sanders in Sun Valley, ID USA 10/06/2011

Best: Manuel's Guesthouse
Why: Amazing staff, amazing view, food and cocktail hour were fantastic. BEST part of our trip!

Kelly Moffa in Irvine, CA USA 10/01/2011

Best: Villa Marsili in Cortona
Why: The staff were fantastic, the accomodations were magnificent and the view was breathtaking.

Laura Lee Crosetti in Putnam, CT USA 09/30/2011

Best: Hotel Ideale, Assisi
Why: Lovely view of entire valley from room, quiet. Excellent Breakfast, friendly owner ( But speaks no English). Very reasonable price for the view.

Worst: Katti House, Florence
Why: Room in annex dark and depressing. No one spoke any English. Owner tried her best to shortchange us on the bill. No question about this. We were very angry about this.

Dick and Denise Devlin in Kingston, NH USA 09/26/2011

Best: Hotel Lancelot, Rome
Why: Warm and freindly family hotel. Loved having dinner in the courtyard at the end of long days. One evening even ate with our charming hostess.

Barbara James in Beaufort , SC USA 09/25/2011

Worst: Hotel Primavera in Stresa
Why: Upon the recommendation in your guide, we booked into the Hotel Primavera for 5 nights and guaranteed our stay with a credit card. We we arrived we were told that our room was not available because the person occupying the room was sick and could not move. We were sent to another branch location of the hotel (Villa Mauricio). This was touted as a newly renovated studio with all the amenities, although it was some distance from the Center of the town. While the kitchen and bathroom were indeed nice, the room was right over the railroad tracks. Between the noise from the trains which ran all night and a very uncomfortable couch bed, we got as much sleep as we did on the plane trip from the US to italy!

On the next day we were able to check into the Hotel Primavera and had a nice room with a balcony and a lake view. Funny thing, however, on our last day in the hotel we were sitting in the reception area when an American couple arrived to check into their room. They were told that their room was not available for th same reason that we were (a sick person who could to leave). What we had in common was that we both checked in after 4pm and we were both American. Also the hotel has several other non central locations that they are trying to fill. This may be a ploy to fill these sub optimal locations.

Michael in Boston, MA USA 09/25/2011

Best: Hotel du Lac
Why: Amazing view, great staff!!!! We could only get 2 nights and spent the 3rd in Bellagio- boy was that a culture shock after being in Varenna!

Worst: Hotel Florence- Bellagio
Why: Only because the hand held showers were the worst thing we experienced and there were no shower curtains so there was water everywhere!

Liza in Syracuse, NY USA 09/05/2011

Best: Hotel italia
Why: Their 60€ airport transfer was a treat -- stagger off the plane and into an air-conditioned Mercedes driven by an English speaker. Best splurge of the trip.

Worst: Hotel Italia, Rome
Why: Booked online rather than calling and as a result was stuck in the annex. There was always an English speaker around; I should have called to make the reservation.

K in Rizzo, Va USA 08/23/2011

Best: Inpiazzaadellasignoria in Florence
Why: Great room, friendly staff, great breakfasts!

Worst: Rome
Why: Overwhelming. Too touristy.

Pat Geddes in Berthoud, CO USA 08/16/2011

Best: Antiche Mura, Sorrento
Why: Spotlessly clean; beautiful decor; comfortable beds and linens; spacious bathrooms with superior shower options; warm, friendly staff; delicious and abundant buffet-style breakfast that includes pastries, eggs, juices, fruit (eat indoors or outside); beautiful pool area surrounded by lemon and orange trees and with "fantastic" Mario serving the best pina coladas ever!

Susan in Smithtown, NY USA 08/09/2011

Best: SoleTerraMare
Why: We rented two apartments from SoleTerraMare in Corniglia in June. They were both very comfortable and had air conditioning. The owner, Eleonora Rossi was wonderful. On our previous trip we stayed in Vernazza, but we were delighted with Corniglia and recommend staying there.

Sherry in Hernando, MS USA 08/04/2011

Best: Hotel Saini Meuble, Stesa, Italy
Why: I would highly recommend the Hotel Saini. I stayed at the hotel with my wife and three children, and the owner Gianni Saini treated us like family. The rooms were large, clean, modern and quiet. Our balcony had a lovely view of the mountains. The rates were very reasonable. The hotel is conveniently located one block from the main boat dock and just around the corner from the old town piazza. It is a 15-minute walk to the train station.

Gianni gave us croissants and cappuccino for breakfast. There was no extra charge for breakfast. He recommended a restaurant for dinner, which was excellent and reasonably priced.

Because of Gianni, we were able to meet my Italian cousin for the first time. My grandfather was born in Gallarate, Italy in 1881. He immigrated to Rockford, Illinois, in the early 1900s, where he worked as a bricklayer. Gianni offered to call my cousin Giorgio. My cousin was not home so Gianni left a message. My cousin returned the call the following day, but we had already departed the hotel for the train station. I was standing on the train platform and a man approached me with a cell phone. He handed the phone to me and I was surprised to hear Gianni on the line. He explained that my cousin had called and then gave me Giorgio’s mobile phone number. I contacted my cousin when we were in Milano and we had a wonderful visit with him.

Gianni went out of his way to help us and I am very grateful to him.

Michael Milani Chicago, Illinois

Michael Milani in Chicago, IL USA 08/03/2011

Best: Nicolas Inn and Apartments, Rome
Why: Francois and Melissa were very friendly and accomodating (Melissa is originally from Chicago). Beautiful and comfortable rooms, centrally located. We highly recommend this hotel.

Quinn in Vancouver, WA USA 07/27/2011

Best: Panella's Residence, Florence
Why: Wonderful central location and beautiful rooms. Graziella and Giuseppe are so friendly (especially if you speak a little Italian) and the breakfast was healthy and delicious. Wonderful proprietors and accomodations.

Quinn in Vancouver, WA USA 07/27/2011

Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: All the staff were wonderful!! We ended up needing to stay an extra day and they were perfectly accomodating. It is within walking distance of the train station and a wonderful restaurant (Target). Loved this area! And it was right across the street from the Defense Ministry - we felt very very safe! :)

Angel in Katy, TX USA 07/27/2011

Best: All the accomodations we used came from your book. Burano (Monterosso) and Residence la Tavolozza (Positano) were our favorites.
Why: The people...we loved Celeste, her sister, Francesca, and Paloa and did not want to leave the place or the city.

Joe and Lila Klein in Richmond, MN USA 07/26/2011

Best: Noli--Ca' de Tobia
Why: Not in guidebook but should be...new seaside B&B in Noli. Delightful, attentive proprietor who speaks perfect English, chic and elegant rooms and breakfast. http://www.cadetobia.it

Susan in Wolcottville, IN USA 07/25/2011

Best: Hotel Mediterraneo
Why: Family run by Victorio, Pia, Erik and Marco -- great feel and attention. Pia spoke the best English by far. Very nice size rooms, classic old villa/hotel, great breakfast and gourmet evening meals, close to everything but in a quiet area of the city. Probaly best for older travelers -- lost of great memorabilia. Free bikes and free laundry (Pia wanted me to be sure to mention the free laundry to Rick Steves)

John and Elyse O'Kane in Stone Mountain, GA USA 07/24/2011

Best: Casa betania, Cortona
Why: Clean, great location and price

Toey in Houston, Tx USA 07/22/2011

Best: Hotel Gerber
Why: Fabulous people! The owner was precious. The breakfast was great

Worst: Hotel La Tonnarella
Why: Again as I put in worst experiences, I am so disappointed because of my inexperience with this, but I guess with everything else that I did by the recommendations of the book one thing going wrong should not be horrible. Just so frustrating.

Debbie in Benton, Ky USA 07/20/2011

Best: All were delightful. Arco Del Lauro (Rome) Hotel Europa (Florence), Hotel Sileo (Rome)
Why: Arco Del Lauro was clean, clean, clean. Lovely hosts Lorenza and Daniela were so gracious and helpful. They made dinner reservations for us a week in advance of our trip for our arrival night in Rome. They suggested two restaurants and we chose one. Felt like an oasis of cool and comfort during a delightful, but busy trip.

Worst: No "Worst"
Why: Just a detail. Hotel Sileo asked me to pay in cash which was easily accommodated with a trip to the ATM at Termini.

Maureen in Grayslake, IL USA 07/18/2011

Worst: Hotel Riva, Venice
Why: I hesitate to list this as a "worst" because the owners are working hard to welcome guests and the hotel is right on the canal. Our issues: my 6'4" husband could not fit into the shower; no dresser and no place to put suitcases except floor; no lift and difficult to haul luggage up 3 flights of narrow stairs; breakfast was coffee, juice and boring rolls.

Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011

Best: Hotel Villa Steno, Monterosso, Cinque Terre
Why: Absolutely wonderful. Spacious, ocena view terrace room where we watched the moon rise over the hills. Gracious host and hostess, amazing breakfast, free wifi.

Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011

Worst: Hotel Montreal, Rome
Why: Recommended by friends who'd stayed there about 4 hears ago and RS Italy 2011, but has gone downhill. Room was shabby with torn bedspread, peeling linoleum, battered wordwork. A/C was minimal, breakfast unremarkable. We aren't paranoid, but somehow it didn't even feel safe.

Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011

Best: Katti House, Florence
Why: Spacious room, delightful owner, grerat location within walking distance of everything.

Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011

Best: AGRITURISMO GUARDASTELLE - San Gimignano, Italy
Why: Not in Rick Steves but should be. Reasonably priced and nicely decorated B&B en-suite rooms and apartments. Great location. Good base camp for Tuscany day driving trips, such as Volterra (25 minutes), Certaldo (20 minutes), Monteriggioni (25 minutes), Firenze (1 hour), Siena (45 minutes). It is only a 20 minute walk to San Gimignano where there are lots of sightseeing, shopping, restaurants, and gelato. Guardastelle is an estate that sits on top of a hill overlooking delightful gardens,grape vineyards, olive groves, Tuscany rolling hills, beautiful swimming pool and a gorgeous scenic view of the town of San Gimignano. Susanna and Fausto are the owners who are very friendly and delightful hosts and eager to please. They speak very good English. Delicious breakfast. They provide a fantastic wine/oil tasting and wine tours of their vineyards. Check this place out in Trip Advisor because it is highly recommended. Link to Guadastelle: http://www.guardastelle.com

Tom, June, Becca in Tallahassee, FL USA 07/15/2011

Best: Pensione Guerrato in Venice
Why: Great location, air conditioning worked, clean, quiet and charming.

D Mitchell in Elk Grove, CA USA 07/12/2011

Best: FLORENCE: HOTEL ENZA
Why: LOCATION WAS VERY GOOD, I ALWAYS TRIED TO STAY CLOSE TO THE TRAIN STATION. THE ROOM AND BATH QUITE NICE AND CLEAN. THE STAFF WAS EXTREMELY NICE AND INFORMATIVE. THE ABILITY TO HAVE BREAKFAST WAS GREAT.

Worst: ROME: BUBBLES
Why: I HAD MADE RESERVATION FOR (2) NIGHTS AT FAWLTY TOWERS. I RE-CONFIRMED MY RESERVATION A WEEK BEFORE I LEFT. AFTER FLYING ALL NIGHT (TIRED) WAS TOLD THAT THE PLACE WAS BEING REMOLDED AND IT TOOK AWHILE FOR THEM TO FIND ME A PLACE AT BUBBLES WHICH WAS TWICE THE PRICE OF FAWLTY TOWERS. I FELT A BIT UNSAFE THERE ALSO, ALTHOUGH NOTHING HAPPENED. ON MY RETURN TO ROME, PER YOUR SUGGESTION, I WENT TO THE LAUNDROMAT "SPLASH" AND SPOKE TO MANAGER (HE WAS IN YOUR GUIDEBOOK) AND HE FOUND ME A NICE PLACE AND HIS BROTHER EVEN TOOK ME THERE, VERY NICE FELLOW.

SANDI KELLY in SARASOTA, FL USA 07/10/2011

Best: ROME: Residenza Giubbonari
Why: Not recommended by RS, but I found it somewhere else. It was excellent. Located on a pedestrian street, Via dei Giubbonari, a block east of Campo di Fiori, in the heart of where you want to be in Rome. It is a 6-story apartment building, and we rented the penthouse apartment for our 6-person group. It worked perfectly, and we even had terraces with chairs and shade, so we could enjoy the outdoors overlooking Rome. ResidenzGiubbonari.com.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 06/30/2011

Best: SIENA: Albergo Residence Borgo Grondaie
Why: Borgo Grondaie hotel/apartments was not recommended by RS, but it should be. In many years of traveling in Europe, it was one of the best places we've ever stayed. We traveled with our 3-generation family, and found nothing suitable among the accomodations recommended in the Italy 2011 book. I found Borgo Grondaie was highly rated by TripAdvisor.com, and took a chance. It was excellent. Just on the edge of the city, it was a great value and excellent accomodations. We rented two 3-person loft apartments, and paid additional for breakfast, which was superb and well worth the price. It is located on a perch of several acres, with beautiful grounds, free parking, and a nice pool. Our stay was only 2 nights, but wish it were much longer. BorgoGrondaie.com.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 06/30/2011

Best: Venice: Pensione Guerrato
Why: Highly recommended by Rick Steves, it was even better than expected. A great location in Rialto, just off the Grand Canal, next to the fish and vegetable markets, and wonderful owners Roberto and Piero. Roberto even met our water taxi at the wharf , and carried bags and led us to the hotel...which dates to 1288. A great value.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 06/30/2011

Best: Hotel Jhungfaru at Murren
Why: Nice and clean hotel with frinedly staff.

Gaurav Agarwal in Tyngsboro, MA USA 06/28/2011

Best: Casa Capellini in Manarola
Why: It's a climb to get there (just underneath Billy's restaurant) but our room and the one next to us had terraces with fantastic views. The room was bright (white walls and tile floors) and spotlessly clean. No breakfast, but it was the least expensive room during our 17 night trip to Italy.

Worst:
Why: We stayed in several Rick Steves recommended accommodations, and each one was just as described. I'd return to all of them.

Lynette Taylor in Brooksville, FL USA 06/24/2011

Best: Aria di Mare in Manarola (Cinque Terre)
Why: Maurizio was very attentive, while simultaneously being inconspicuous. Plus, our terrace room came with a cat! (To be precise, the neighbor cat Miccia -- pronounced "mee-cha" -- visited daily, provided affection, hung out on the terrace, and even slept on the bed a few times most welcomely! As Maurizio said, "Miccia controls the garden.")

Roxanne in Seattle, WA USA 06/20/2011

Best: Lulu Rooms & Apartments
Why: Egidio owns and runs Lulu Rooms & Apartments in Vernazza, Italy. He is very friendly, and his English is excellent. He met us at the Vernazza train station when we arrived, and showed walked us to our room. The room was large, brightly-colored, and very clean. The inclusion of a stove, fridge, and microwave gave us some welcome flexibility for planning our meals. Egidio recommended we try out a few restaurants, and when the servers heard that Egidio sent us, we received especially good service. I would recommend Lulu Rooms to anyone visiting Cinque Terre.

Joel Pepin in Edmonton, Ab Canada 06/09/2011

Best: Hotel Eremo Gaudio, Varenna
Why: Great views, great value! We originally had reservations in Tremezzo, but after we purchased this book, and read that Varenna was more accessible, I was able to change our reservations. Breakfast was also a bonus!

Worst: none recommended
Why: we should have stayed at a Rick Steves-recommended place in Venice--we were at the Gritti Palace (on points), and it wasn't all that it was cut out to be.

Liz Santos in Seattle, WA USA 06/06/2011

Best: Hotel Centrale, Bellagio
Why: The garden, and breakfast room were lovely and peaceful, and the service was friendly and concerned, even calling us worried about our early departure, and whether we would need food packed the night before.

Worst: Albergo Barbara, Vernazza
Why: No one ever greeted us or smiled. The son was our contact, and I thought he had a nose bleed, but it was two bloody looking nose ornaments. They seemed only interested in collecting their money.

suzanne conrad in Trinity Center, CA USA 05/31/2011

Best: Meuble il Riccio, Montepulciano
Why: Montepulciano is centrally located among the Italian hill towns so it was an easy drive to spend a day in the others. Gio and Ivanna were great. Best breakfasts that we had. A four star hotel for 100 Euros a night.

Mary Weisse in Rapid River, MI USA 05/28/2011

Best: Hotel Maxim Florence
Why: Basic, but great location, nice breakfast and I had not problems using the Internet in the lobby! Would return

Carol in Atlanta, GA USA 05/27/2011

Best: Hotel Duomo, Orvieto
Why: The Massccesi family could not have been more pleasant and helpful. Room was very nice as was the breakfast. Its central location was excellent for wandering the streets of Ovieto.

Worst: Hotel Firenze e Continentale, La Spezia
Why: Just an all around bad experience. Upon initial check-in the desk clerk (rude and unhelpful) claimed that our credit card was rejecting the transaction.He also claimed to have sent an e-mail but we never received it . Therefore, he must charge us more for each night because they graciously held our reservation. I almost bought this , but decided to challenge him. He immediatlely said he could reduce the prices a small amount, after more discussion ( by now he couldn't hardly speak or understand English). I insisted on speaking with the hotel manager. Of course that person was not available. I then insisted that he run my card with the original amount contracted for (superior deluxe rooms) and the transaction went right thru. 4 Star hotel....computer didn't work, never resupplied the tolietries in the room, 5 nights, and finally Maria Gabriella did not throw in a Cinque Terra food specialty for Rick Steves readers.

Art Crawford in Eagle, Id USA 05/18/2011

Best: Gianni Hotel
Why: Pleasant staff. Nice room. Small, old but updated with modern necessities. Get a room with a sea view. The 127 steps up to it is worth it!

Penney Haas in Belleville, IL USA 05/17/2011

Best: Hotel Punta Mesco, in Monterosso al Mare, and Palazzina Cesira, in Montalcino
Why: The Punta Mesco is cheeerful, bright and clean, (although the rooms are small), but all of the personnel are friendly and caring. Manuel, a young man who works at the front desk, went far above and beyond the call of duty to help me get back my i-phone, which had been lost on a train ride. He made phone calls, made arrangements to meet a woman who found it, and got it back for me - all with a "no problem" attitude and a smile. Palazzina Cesira, in Montalcino, was a true jewel of a place. The hosts, Robert and Lucilla, were extremely pleasant, helpful and a pleasure to chat with. The room was spectacular, and the breakfasts were tasty and filling, with eggs, crisp bread, and Lucilla's home-made jams. could not have been better.

Nick & Eileen Sordi in Eagle, CO USA 05/09/2011

Best: Hotel Nardizzi Americana
Why: I showed up without reservation and they didn't have any rooms. But Samy took pity on me and found a way to make a room free (I think its one that the workers use while there) for me. I had a bet, tiny closet, and a private bathroom with shower! Heck, it was cheap too! Three days later they made me a reservation for my return trip in a regular room and the price (for cash) was even better than what is quoted in the guide book! I'll be staying here again when I return to Roma!

Mitch McCann in Killeen, TX USA 05/09/2011

Best: Lucca / Albergo San Martino
Why: Beautiful, clean, comfortable and affordable. Best breakfast during our 2 week stay in Italy. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Easy walk from the train station. Perfect for our family of four.

S. Blank in Seattle, WA USA 05/06/2011

Best: Residenza Giotto, Florence
Why: Around the corner from the Duomo with a view that was fantastic. The owner and staff were wonderful. The room was very large and comfortable. Absolutely great.

Worst: Hotel Henry Venice
Why: The room was tiny, dingy, damp, uncomfortable and the worst place we stayed in Italy, The only good thing was that it was quiet. I would give it a 1 rating out of 100. DO NOT stay there.

Everett Kincer in San Mateo, CA USA 04/18/2011

Worst: Albergo Barbara
Why: Reserved 2 singles - got 2 singles pushed together and made into a large queen.

Called in the evening to request an extra blanket and was basically argued with.

Stopped by the office to request an extra pillow and was told one would be delivered - it never came.

Horrible customer service. I should have read tripadvisor before booking, it sounds like lots of people are having negative experiences there.

J.Fritz in Olympia, WA USA 04/04/2011

Best: Hotel Kinzica in Pisa
Why: This was the only recommended place we used and it was perfect for what we needed. Located a block from the Leaning Tower, we could see it from our window. The hotel is accurately described as tired but clean. The staff went from friendly to aloof.

Chris Kemp in St. Paul, MN USA 03/18/2011

Best: Kattie House, Florence, Italy
Why: The location was very central (close to Medici Chapel, the Duomo, and the Markets) and the accomodations were charming and comfortable....lovely spacious rooms and private bath. Best of all were Maria and her very delightful daughter...their warmth and hospitatality made our stay in Florence most memorable.

Jona Matevish in Santa Rosa, CA USA 03/14/2011

Best: Assisi - Hotel Sole
Why: Who says it's tired? Who every got less than good service? I've stayed there for 2 weeks every summer for the past 8 years. "Welcome home!" is not tired or a shrugged shoulder.

Robert Violette in Bordentown, NJ USA 03/01/2011

Best: Sorrento.....Antiche Mura
Why: great location, very nice staff, classy place

Pete Hall in Haddonfield, NJ USA 02/20/2011

Best: La Signoria de Firenze-Florence
Why: We stayed here for 3 nights in Oct and loved it. The reviews are right. Great location, 50 feet from the Piazza de La Signoria, friendly, helpful hosts, clean and comfortable rooms, and an excellent breakfast at a more than reasonable cost. 100E for a couple. One minute walk to the leather market and Ufizzi Gallery, two minutes to Ponte Vecchio and to the Duomo.Two restaurants were recommended to us and they were excellent. You will love it there. No need to look further.

Brian in Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA 01/21/2011

Best: Hotel Italia in Rome
Why: A comfortable, clean, friendly hotel in a great location. We spent 6 nights over Christmas week. Left to go to Sicily for 5 nights and returned for another 2 days. All of the staff were friendly and very accommodating. Breakfasts were wonderful! Hope we can return some day!

Michelle in Alden, NY USA 01/14/2011

Worst: Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti
Why: We arrived at this hotel and there were people sleeping on mattresses around the steps. Upon checking in, the clerk seemed disgruntled that we had interrupted them from whatever it was that they had been doing to perform this task. The A/C didn't work, mosquitos were everywhere. Don't know why this was so warmly recommended. We never felt completely safe upon leaving and returning. It was the most disappointing part of our trip.

Janice in West Richland, WA USA 01/11/2011

Best: Hotel Pasquale
Why: Clean. Great breakfasts!

Marisol Grossling in Vancouver, BC Canada 01/04/2011

Best: Albergo Doni in Venice
Why: Bed bugs in Venice! We traveled in Italy for 3 1/2 weeks and this was by far the worst hotel. While they were nice, the accomodations were not. the last straw was not putting out a couple of elevated sidewalks so we could walk into the hotel when flooding happened. Their response - welcome to venice.

Kevin Dibble in Colorado Springs, CO USA 01/01/2011

Best: Antiche Mura--Sorrento
Why: Wonderful rooms, ask for the Junior Suite, excellent service, good breakfast and the hotel is just a block from the main street in Sorrento and just a fw blocks from the train station.

Jerry in La Crescenta, CA USA 12/18/2010

Best: Hotel Minerva, Sorrento
Why: With off season arrival (mid Oct) we got a discount package that made the stay affordable for us. The view is amazing. The help was very accommodating. Every need was promptly met - iron, ironing board, extra towels, arrangements for tours or travel to Capri & Pompei. Breakfast buffet was amazing. It even offered eggs & sausage.

Barbara in Tampa, Fl USA 12/04/2010

Best: Casa Selita, Orvieto
Why: This was our second trip to Orvieto after a one day stop several years ago. We knew that a longer stay would be enjoyable and it was. Casa Selita made a perfect place to enjoy access to the town from a quiet countryside setting It was exactly as pictured on the website and described in Rick's 2010 Italy guidebook. The location is stunning on the steep slope leading up to Orvieto, and panoramic views surround the B and B. We found Selita to be very helpful, knowledgeable about the area, and Italy in general. The rooms were lovely; the entire house was beautifully sited on the steep slope to maximize privacy, views, and use of the land. Three of us in our party are in our 60s and we found the walk up through the olive orchard to be possible, altho a few rest stops were called for! The breakfasts were wonderful - yogurt, muesli, ham, cheese, and toast with coffee, of course. We hope to return.

sandra crites in wintrhop, mE USA 12/01/2010

Best: Locando La Corta
Why: Gloriously historic, super quiet (thick walls!), and home to Tommy the cat.

Diana Oertel in San Francisco, CA USA 11/12/2010

Best: La Magnolia B&B in Oriveto
Why: We just loved this place! Friendly and enthusiastic proprietor, Serena, lots of homey touches in our room with bath, great location, and nice breakfast in the bar. On Wednesday the bar is closed so they brought a beautiful breakfast tray to our room. We even took a photo of it! We could have stayed longer we felt so settled in here.

Joan Ofteness in Bellingham, WA USA 11/12/2010

Best: Il Bargello, Florence
Why: Gabriella is so warm and outgoing. It was wonderful visiting with the other guests at breakfast. And we could shop for food at the local market and fix dinner in occasionally rather than going out. And we loved having an English-speaking host who could easily refer us to great restaurants, as well as camera and sporting goods stores where we needed to make some additional purchases.

Worst: Ca San Travaso, Venice
Why: We stayed here only 2 days, and for this duration, it was ok. But there was no place to interact with other tenants. Hallway wallpaper needs maintenance. Desk person spoke no English. Combo of no place to interact with other visistors & difficult communication with desk person would make staying here more than a couple of days not very fun. But location was perfect, and we were meeting a cruise ship when we left here, and it was at the next vaporetto stop, so we were able to just walk to the cruise ship with our luggage. We would stay here again, but not for very many days. Room was warm and comfortable & breakfast adequate. Consider the rooms only average size rather than spacious.

Garnet Holden in Grass Valley, CA USA 11/11/2010

Best: Ulisses Deluxe Hostel, Sorrento
Why: Beautiful room, huge bathroom with jetted tub. We went for the package which included unlimited use of the spa. (309euro for 3 nights, breakfast and spa included) It was lovely to unwind in the spa after a day of walking around the area.

Paula MacMillan in Goshen, NS Canada 11/09/2010

Best: Albergo Bernini, Sienna
Why: We had a horrible experience with our B & B in Venice. When we e-mailed and asked if we could arrive a day early-no problem. Lovely room, clean shared bathrooms, friendly and helpful owners and the beautiful view from the roof top terrace. It felt like heaven.

Worst: Vernazza Rooms, Vernazza
Why: They did not honour our reservation. Our room was not available when we arrived and we had to find rooms elsewhere. We did find great rooms closer to the waterfront, so perhaps it was for the best

Paula MacMillan in Goshen, NS Canada 11/09/2010

Best: Malvarina near Assisi
Why: Delightful place, plenty of room for 4. Cooking facilities good, plenty of dishes. The owner and all of the employees were great. Brought us to see bread being baked and a winery. Don't forget the dinner one night! Well worth the expense and besides you save cooking for yourself at other times! Never to busy to answer questions. A real gem. And did I mention it was beatiful? We also stayed in Santa Maria alle Formacia in Rome, great breakfast and close to Vatican and on bus route plus near Ste. Pedro train station. Very clean.

Kathleen Kulstad in St Paul, MN USA 11/05/2010

Best: Basso Guiliano's in Vernazza
Why: Guiliano's rooms are so beautiful and comfortable. Rick mentions noise from the train in his book, but after hiking the Cinque Terre, we were so tired and didn't hear a thing! The rooms share a beautiful terrace overlooking the town and the sea: the perfect place to have a bottle of wine! We had a great time here talking to Guiliano and the other guests.

Soggiorno Battistero in Florence was great, too! Very helpful and knowledgeable staff to make reservations for you and breakfast served in room!

Hotel Rosetta in Roma was very basic. Clean and a great location. No complaints.

Stacy in Cape Coral, FL USA 10/26/2010

Worst: Dimora Marciana, Venice
Why: This is our last day here and we discovered this morming that our camera was stolen from our room. If you can be of any help with this, please e-mail me at lizfletcher4@gmail.com or call the hotel.

Liz Fletcher in Chesterfield, VA USA 10/26/2010

Best: Camere Fontana Vecchia
Why: The best room in our 3 weeks in Italy. We fell in love with Annamaria and the Nonna who was our security lookout. Our room was spacious with a queen or king size bed, had a spacious ensuite bathroom and was immaculate.

Worst: None in Italy
Why: We booked all hotels and rooms based on Rick Steves' books and found the recommendations were right on target. We could usually assess after e-mailing the affita camere or the hotel that it was going to be a good experience.

Jim Gray in Novato, CA USA 10/24/2010

Worst: Albergo IL Genio in Portovere Italy
Why: In Italy, south of Cinque Terre and near La Spezia: Overlooking a lovely bay is Albergo IL Genio; Piazza Bastreri 8; in the town of Portovenere. Telephone 0187-790-61. Rick Steves' 2010 book recommended this hotel. But Expedia, Kayak, and Booking Buddy do not list it. They appear to know it has a problem.

On 14 October 2010, my party telephoned the hotel and was told there were vacancies. When we arrived, the only man who spoke English attempted to book us immediately. We asked to see a room, but he persisted in talking about booking. I sternly said, "We need to see a room." Then a very small, very old man interrupted to argue in Italian with the English-speaker (undoubtedly his son). That ended when the younger man grabbed the old man's coat, twisted him around and pushed him towards the office. English-speaker then started a sales pitch. I asked him, "Why can't we see a room?" He extended his hand to me, and I responded. He squeezed my hand hard and wished me a good journey.

Patrick D. Shannon in Hyattsville, MD USA 10/21/2010

Best: Dei Mori, Florence (B&B)
Why: This is our second trip to Dei Mori and once again felt that this Bed and Breakfast will NEVER let you down. We were welcomed by Danny, one of the owners, who goes above and beyond to share his favorite restaurants and sights in Florence. From the smell of the lilies to the aroma of bread baking for breakfast, this Bed and Breakfast exceeds your highest expectations. Suzanne helped us with reservations in a friendly and efficient manner. Peter's kindness and humor set the stage for a fabulous stay in Florence. The location cannot be beat. Five minutes to the Duomo, Uffizi, Piazza Della Signori, and fabulous restaurants. We will return. These same owners have a villa in Tuscany, Dei Mori La Massa, which is a hidden secret, tucked away in the beautiful Casentino Valley, just 45 minutes from Florence. You will not be disappointed. It is a short drive to many of the hill towns like Arezzo, Cortona (Under the Tuscan Sun) Poppi, and Anghiara with many interesting sights to see, away from the bustle of Florence.

JoAnne Cruson in Nampa, Id USA 10/18/2010

Best: Pensione Palazzo Ravizza
Why: Good service, tremendous room.

Worst: Residenza dei Pucci
Why: Unreliable on time. It took 15 minutes to gain entrance upon arrival. Office not open at posted 9AM time. Breakfast not available when posted.

John MacBain in Carmel, IN USA 10/17/2010

Best: Albergo Marino in Monterosso; Royal Victoria Hotel in Pisa
Why: Albergo Marina was a great find, just as you describe. Fantastic staff, our best breakfast of the trip. The afternoon buffet didn't really exist but we didn't need more food anyway. Pisa's Royal Victoria was a perfect end to our trip, especially after two unpleasant days at the Ostello in Lucca (see below). Great room, river view was noisy but worth it for the ambiance. By the way, we also stayed at Alma Domus in Siena and, unlike another post I read, enjoyed our stay. Not the breakfast, however.

Worst: Ostello San Frediano in Lucca
Why: Our room was dark (one smallish window at least 8 feet off the ground--only way to see out was to climb onto the bunk bed.) The room was damp and cold. Perhaps we should have been more assertive because we met another couple who liked their room. Ours was unacceptable at least for "older travelers" like ourselves. Did not live up to your writeup and advisor's recommendation at all.

Gary Ireland in Seattle, WA USA 10/13/2010

Best: Badia Fiorentina B&B, Florence
Why: The owner, Bruno is a fantastic host and makes you feel like family. Location is close to all major sights too. I agree with all the things Cynthia in Chicago stated below so I will not repeat them.

Debbie in Zurich, Switzerland 10/07/2010

Best: Badia Fiorentina B&B in Florence
Why: This is a fantastic B&B! Bruno was a great host! Because his personal residence is also at this location he was always available, enthusiastic and helpful (which is nice, because some B&B's are managed by someone off-site and coordinating your arrival can be problematic). This B&B is in the best possible location - everything is within walking distance! We stayed for 3 nights in September 2010 and thought the room & bathroom were modern, clean and comfortable. The view out the window wasn't great, but because it faced a tiny courtyard, it was quiet and allowed us to sleep! The breakfast was the usual coffee, fruit, yogurt, toast, pastries, etc. served by Bruno in the sunny main Living/Dining room of the B&B. I thought it was a great place, great location and good price. We will definitely stay here again! FYI - This B&B is located in the same building as the B&B Dei Mori (Listed in Rick Steve's Italy 2010 under Florence)

Cynthia in Chicago, IL USA 10/06/2010

Best: Grand duca di York - Milan
Why: Great hotel. The rooms were great and the staff was very nice and accomodating. Close to everything we wanted to do and see!

Beverly Haines in BURBANK,, CA USA 10/04/2010

Best: Dei Mori B & B in Florence
Why: Peter, Suzanne, and Danny were all so welcoming, gracious, and helpful in every way. And the location is unbeatable! Quiet, between the Duomo and the Uffizi -- can't do better than that!

Jill Ellis in Del Mar, CA USA 10/04/2010

Best: Camere Fontana Vecchia in Vernazza
Why: Value. Lack of stairs to climb after hiking all day. Quiet.

Larry Honeywell in Chapel Hill, NC USA 09/27/2010

Best: the Beehive, Rome
Why: Friendly staff, free WiFi and the feel of living in a home rather than a hostel/hotel. Our third visit with them, and they will continue to see us whenever Rome is on the itinerary.

Worst: Hotel 939, Rome
Why: Buzzer on the street is not marked Hotel 939 (nor their door), which caused confusion when we arrived tired and jet-lagged. Wanted a printed version of our confirmation email, and would not look at my electronic version. Then, we got stiffed on the included breakfast, taking advantage on our lack of paperwork. Good location and reasonable rooms but never felt comfortable with the owner or staff.

Steve Madsen in Newcastle, Australia 09/26/2010

Best: Romantica Pucci in Civita
Why: Superb steer! We loved Pucci! She made us a great dinner, made us feel at home. Told fascinating tales. Reasonably priced!

Worst: Hotel Priori in Perugia
Why: Perugia's not mentioned in your book, but we loved it during the Jazz Fest. The Hotel was the most expensive we stayed out and we called it "Dante's Inferno." We roasted in our un-air-conditioned room. They refused us a fan and we couldn't open the windows because loud jazz revelers on the street kept is up til 6:00am both nights! Made for a tedious drive to Civita!

Peter Hebard in Albuquerque, NM USA 09/10/2010

Worst: Residenzia dei Pucci
Why: No elevator. Filthy stairway carpeting. Mediocre breakfast. Biggest problem: broken toilet seat that no one would fix. Proprietress said "It's August, they are all on vacation, what can I do?" We offered to tighten the potty if she could supply pliers and a screwdriver. No go on that idea. Dirty room carpeting (cheap sisal not actually carpet - wood floors would have been preferable), scratchy sheets, and completely inadequate air conditioning. The room never got below 81 degrees, especially after the maid left open every window allowing bus fumes to stink up the room during the daytime. Ugh. Wont' go there again.

Steve in Chicago, IL USA 08/30/2010

Best: Hotel Enza in Florence
Why: Fantastic location, helpful staff, decent amenities, good size rooms, moderns/clean bathroom, and best of all we had a large balcony where we could sit and relax.

Worst: Hotel Aberdeen
Why: Not awful but if I had to choose the worst of my trip it would be it. Was a decent sized room with good amenities. The bed was awful and there was no shower curtain or door which was causing the bottom of the bathroom door to rot.

Matt Campbell in Kansas City, KS USA 08/24/2010

Best:
Why: I stayed in the following places in July2010 with my two daughters (10 and 16): Hotel Al Fagiano- Padua Locanda ca del Brocchi- Venice Albergo Barbara- Vernazza Katti House- Florence Gulliver's Lodge B&B- Rome I would recommend any of these accommodations- they all gave us wonderful service, beautiful and spotless accommodations and very reasonable prices. I would return to any of these locations in a minute!

Worst: Hotel Alma Domous, Siena
Why: This would have been one of our favourite accomodations- a lovely room, amazing view, wonderful location. Unfortunately, each morning we awoke to an overwhelming sewage smell in our bathroom, which also encompassed the entire room. We could not use the bathroom (or the room for that matter) until the afternoon. When I spoke with the front desk I received a shrug and the response that it just depended on the time of day. This would be a 10/10 accommodation if this problem were addressed.

Jana M in Vernon, BC Canada 08/22/2010

Best: Pensione Accademia
Why: It was such a beautiful hotel. Lovely people. Gorgeous views and such a short walk from the vaporetto stop. Also, locating yourself close to a bridge meant that you weren't dependent completely on vaporettos.

Keren in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI USA 08/19/2010

Worst: EGI Rooms, Vernazza, Italy
Why: The room Egi gave us was not the room we agreed to it was higher priced. Not only that he made us believe that the room had air conditioning when it did not. Additionally, the power did not work in most of the outlets in the room.

Tom Ciaccio in St. Paul, MN USA 08/17/2010

Best: Magnolia Orvieto
Why: Very helpful and centrally located. Excellent little B&B

Worst: Menerva (Ravenna)
Why: Price on check out was 20 euros higher than quoted the night before. Desk was rude even thoough we were trying to udnerstand what the rate hike was for. Nice hotel but make sure the price is WRITTEN DOWN first.

Joseph Prisco in San Pablo, CA USA 08/15/2010

Best: Fawlty Towers Hostel
Why: Air conditioning! I was there in the middle of July and it was such a relief. The hotel I stayed at in Florence (Soggiorno Magliani) was lovely (I loved Vincenza & Cristina!), but more expensive than Fawltey Towers and didn't have air conditioning or free wi-fi. Fawlty Towers was also an extremely convenient location for heading to the airport, as it is a 5 minute walk to Termini train station.

Amanda in Boston, MA USA 08/15/2010

Best: Page 603: Hotel Dei Capitani, Montalcino
Why: You must get a view room - the views are gorgeous. The breakfast on the terrace is great, and the pool a welcome respite from the heat or a long day sight-seeing in Siena or Montepulciano.

Steve in Pleasanton, CA USA 08/08/2010

Best: Hotel Cavallino d' Oro( Castelrotto), Hotel Olivedo (Varenna), Hotel Settimo Cielo (Sorrento)
Why: Hotel Cavallino d' Oro had a quaint Tyrolean feel. Very neat and tidy. Helpful staff, wonderful dining room and delicious food.

Hotel Olivedo was in a great location, had spectacular views from our room, and best of all had Laura! Our host was very accommodating and kind. Her homemade ravioli and tiramisu were absolutely to die for.

Hotel Settimo Cielo -Wonderful views from every room in a fabulous location close enough to town. The staff was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They recommended a fabulous restaurant our first night. " La Fenice" which I definitely recommend Rick should try.

Diann Danska in Benicia, CA USA 08/04/2010

Best: Albergo Bernini in Siena and Lucca in Cento in Lucca
Why: Ahhhhh, Siena.....

That porch was near impossible for me to leave.

Lucca in Centro was a very pleasant surprise and deserves inclusion in you book. Eliza was by far the most accommodating host we had.

Worst: Florence-Hotel Centrale
Why: Just too damn touristy, at Hotel Centrale the only place that charged us for wi-fi in all of Italy, plus we had a power failure on our first night (air con was off on a very hot night) and lost water for a time on our last morning. Also some frustrating communication that resulted in a "less than" room that could've been avoided.

Andy Traisman in Eugene, OR USA 07/31/2010

Best: Hotel Pensione Guerrato(Venice) and Residenza Il Villino(Florence)
Why: You recommend the Residenza IL Villino that we stayed in Florence and you were right on the mark. Even though the hotel wasn't perfect from a esthetic or appearance perspective, it was quaint, warm, and comfortable with an excellent family-run atmosphere and great owner.

The Hotel Pensione Guerrato in Venice wasn't in your book but should be. It is much like the Villino in Florence - warm, comfortable, clean, and in a great location around markets, shops, and boat transportation. You should chekc them out and consider adding them to your book. The contact info is: Calle Drio la Scimia, San Polo 240/a, Venice 30125 Phone: +39(0)41 5285927

Worst: Hotel Smeraldo - Rome
Why: Steve - We stayed 3 nights at this hotel and though the accomodations where clean and certainly suitable, the issue was more with the staff. We felt that they were not very friendly towards us at their guests - whether it was the registration desk staff or the cleaning staff. Not sure if it was because we were Americans or if they treated all guests with a cold, harsh personality but of your recommendations, this hotel does not deserve to be in your book. The other thing we noticed about this hotel was that of your other recommendations that we took advatnage of, this was the first "corporate" feeling run hotel. It had the feeling of a marriott versus the personal, family run hotels that we stayed at in Florence and Venice.

Kurt Bulawa in Parker, CO USA 07/30/2010

Best: a Durmi
Why: Fantastic hosts, accommodating, helpful, kind; great accommodation, lovely local guests

Anna Hemmendinger in Waterloo, On Canada 07/28/2010

Best: Hotel Olivedo, Varenna, Italy
Why: Varenna Is a beautiful calm quiet place to relax for a few days. The train station is a 5 min walk from the hotel, which is at the welcoming end of the lake ferries. I enjoyed a lovely room with a balcony and open shuttered windows, allowing me to watch the visitors disembark below, and offering splendid un-obstructed views of bellagio, and lake como to the north. You can't beat the location-- for being so central in this small town, everything is still very quiet, and almost like your stepping back in time.

Laura, the 3rd generation owner welcomed me graciously, and as a single traveler made me feel at home.

Their no fuss namesake resturaunt is on the main floor of the hotel, and offers patio seating, or a gorgeous old world dinning room. The food is in a typical Italian format, with a schedule of courses, but you can get as little or as much as you like. My favorite was the homeade pumpkin gnoicchi in butter sage sauce, and Laura's homemade raviolis. However, I did see couples induldging in the full offerings, including veal, fresh fish from the lake, and seasonal vegetables.

The hotel looks exactly like the pics posted on their website, except with even better views!! It's just a little stroll to the main square, which is a pedestrian only walkway.

Laura gives you as much attention as you like, but also respects couples privacy and is not a nosy innkeeper. Plus she has a great staff of pleasant waiters and hostesses, who hussle and get orders out quickly....all with sincerity.

Only an hr by train from Milan, this location offers a great chance to unwind.

Worst: Hotel Sanpi Milano (don't remember if was listed in book)
Why: This was supposed to be a 4 star hotel... However, one front desk employee ruined the whole experience--which is unfortunate because everyone else was nice. After I checked in (with a very nice gentleman), I took a shower in the room, and the drain wasn't working properly. Because I didn't want water to overflow the short shower stall, I informed the desk that the drain needed some draino. When I came back a few hours later, i looked in the shower and saw a line of wadded up hair and grit-- obviously the job hadn't been finished. There is just something unsettleling about seeing someone elses follicles in the same place I am going to shower in. So, on the way out to dinner I let the employee know. When I returned and picked up my key, I asked him if everything was ok. He said his collegue had taken care of it. However, there were no apologies, or "I am so sorry sir," etc. When I checked out with the SAME employee 2 mornings later, he was still rather cold, and had no sense of remorse. When I asked if he could compensate me for the inconvenience, as nothing was noted on my bill (I wouldn't have cared if he had seemed to care about my stay), he told me, "It's not like you had to sleep in it [the hairy mess]."

I had just come from a 3 * hotel on lake como I loved, and a 4 * in Santa Margerhita....which had such bend over backward service they probably would have given me a new room. I have stayed in hostels, 5*'s and one * hotels, and have a pretty good sense of what's appropriate. Overall Sanpi Milano is in a good location, and has tasty breakfast, but I can not tolerate rude service. Even a nice note would have won me over.

andrew in tiburon, ca USA 07/28/2010

Best: Hotel Ideale, Assisi
Why: Great service from Dino who regaled us with song as he cleared the breakfast dishes. The view was spectacular - ask for a second floor balcony. A/C kept us cool. Dino also recommended a fantastic restaurant the name of which escapes me.

john in whidden, ab Canada 07/20/2010

Best: Hotel Giulietta E Romeo
Why: Service was great, room was clean and quiet, location was unbeatable (one minute walk to Arena) - wonderful when returning with the kids from the opera at 1:30AM.

john in whidden, ab Canada 07/20/2010

Best: Hotel Duomo Orvieto
Why: Great location, nice room

Joan Goddard in Boulder, CO USA 07/18/2010

Best: our hotel in Montepulciano Meuble Il Riccio and Hotel Paba in Rome
Why: Our stays in these two hotel, both recommended by Rick, were perfect. Both were spotless and the owners were precious. The Hotel Paba is literally around the corner from the Colosseum in Rome and so easy to hub out of.

Stacy Jarrell in Spring Hill, FL USA 07/13/2010

Best: N/A
Why: As I am a poor college student, I stayed in a hostel which was wonderful. Im sure Rick's suggestions are fantastic though.

Amanda Kwon in St. Louis, MO USA 07/13/2010

Best: Malverina Agrotourismo in Assisi
Why: What an amazing place to stay. A beautiful farm. Superb breakfast included in stay -- gourmet dinner for extra. Our cottage looked out over a magnificent valley. We did not want to leave!

Sandra Rhoades in Marietta, GA USA 07/07/2010

Best: Hotel al Piave
Why: A convenient, well run, and comfortable hotel in Venice. We started our journey with a three-day stay here and it was just right. Nothing fancy but good breakfast, helpful staff, and decent rooms (we had a family quad with two bedrooms and a bathroom).

Worst: Settimo Cielo
Why: We see that other people love it but we were incredibly disappointed by the really outdated accommodations and the fact that -- unlike anywhere else in Italy -- our "quad" for two adults and two teenagers was a room that would have been adequate for two people with two cots jammed in. It's a long walk up the hill, the bus was unreliable, the breakfast stinks, and the pool closes at 6:30. The views ARE amazing and the family that runs it couldn't have been nicer but it was a real disappointment.

Carrie Klein in Oakland, CA USA 07/07/2010

Best: Hotel Olivedo, Varenna
Why: Laura is working hard to over come the "less than Miss Congeniality" mentioned in the guide. We enjoyed our stay here in comfortable beds, great breakfast, and dinner, fine view of lake and the fun of watching the traffic on and off ferry. When we thanked Laura for the good room and service she smiled and said, "Tell Rick Steves" So I am.

Clarence Pederson in Vermillion, SD USA 07/04/2010

Best: La Spiaggia Hotel Monterosso, Italy
Why: This is a fantastic hotel -- right on the beach and with a wonderful, helpful staff. The owner has his own vineyard and he shares his great wine with his guests. Good breakfast, great rooms -- the best hotel on the beach!

Sandra in Marietta, GA USA 07/03/2010

Best: Hotel Olivedo in Varenna, Italy
Why: Hotel Olivedo in Varenna, Italy deserves a major, positive re-evaluation. We were a bit hesitant to book Hotel Olivedo based on the qualified description in your Italy guidebook. After a five night stay, we offer an unqualified recommendation.

There may be multiple reasons the Hotel received a luke-warm review in the past. However, on every criteria, it was the best hotel, service and food on our two month European trip.

Owner, Laura, was a gracious and maternal-like overseer. She has surrounded herself with efficient and hard working staff which then allows her to focus on the overall operation as well as make personal contact and adjustments for her guests’ enjoyment.

Room 15 on the front has been remodeled into a first class accommodation including a new bathroom. The lake view was lovely, and the bustle of ferries coming and going reflected the pulse of Lake Como.

Breakfast was a full European spread; and dinners were excellent including fresh lake fish, the best asparagus ever, eggplant and numerous other, seasonal selections all well prepared and served.

We believe that Hotel Olivedo deserves a re-wording of your recommendation.

Great trip!

Betty & George Torney in San Francisco, CA USA 06/27/2010

Best: Bought tickets on line and Visit Vatican after 2PM
Why: No line

Hung Nguyen in Santa Clara, CA USA 06/26/2010

Best: Hotel Duomo, Florence
Why: Efficient staff--delightful older gentlemen--did not ask for his name. Clean, updated room with comfortable, recently renovated large bathroom. "In your face," up-close-and-personal view of the Duomo from the room's balcony!

Worst: Ca'del Dose Camere, Venice
Why: "Funky," all right. More like "fungy." We had room 3 with substantial mildew under the air conditioner which dripped all night long. Lorenzo put towels down and new about the long-term problem. No other room was available. I had a headache and sinus problems for three days, as a result of spending two nights in this unhealthy room. My husband developed a deep cough and congestion which lasted two weeks. Lorenzo did get someone to come out and stop the leak upon our insistance but that, of course, did not remove the mold. Lorenzo did not seem to understand the concern about the mold--perhaps because he lives in Venice and mold is everywhere. He gave us 10% off our 2-night stay along with your 10% discount. The room was the least comfortable one during our two weeks in Italy. The bathroom was like a boat head--prefabricated and narrow.

Michalene Perry in Punta Gorda, FL USA 06/24/2010

Best: Katti House
Why: Ketti is very nice. The room was clean, large and comfortable with a private bathroom. It's very close to the railway station and close to the heart of Florence. We like the feeling of living on the second floor just above the old street in the old town.

Li in Seattle, WA USA 06/24/2010

Best: Hotel Saini Mueble in Stresa
Why: The hotel is an excellent 350 year old building, completely restored and modernized.Very comforable. The owner, Giani Saini is like a tour guide helping you make arrangements for touring around. Very good value hotel and well situated.

ernie ooms in calgary, al canada 06/16/2010

Best: Settimo Cielo in Sorrento
Why: Warm reception by the staff, comfortable common areas, beautiful view, and we were sorry we had to leave.

Jim King in Largo, Fl USA 06/14/2010

Best: Locanda al Leon - Venice
Why: We stayed in the two-bedroom apartment operated by this hotel (mentioned on pg. 95). It might be helpful to mention that it is actually located about 5 minutes away by foot near Campo Santa Maria Formosa, making it roughly equidistant between the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. I booked the room online and was quoted a rate (250 euro/night) that was slightly lower than the price Rick mentioned in the book (260 euro/night for readers). The apartment was spacious, clean, and comfortable, and location was superb.

Carol Jin in Glen Cove, NY USA 06/10/2010

Best: Orange House, Varenna
Why: Large room (we had the double) with sparkling bathroom, outstandingly gracious host (Piero - see above for our favorite experience during 3 weeks in Italy: the invitation into Piero & Mara's home), excellent location, easy to walk to/from the train station with luggage, excellent mattress. We will return as soon as possible.

Barbara Jennings in Munds Park, AZ USA 06/10/2010

Best: Room in Vernazzo from the Canoli Brothers wives
Why: expensive,, but good filtered view of the harbor and great little room, with clothes line - very useful

kathy Law in Oakland, CA USA 06/09/2010

Worst: Edi's Rooms
Why: Our Edi's Rooms was a big dissappointment - would never go back. No water pressure, hair dryer provided with the room would not fit into the outlets. That and hauling our luggage up and down the full height of the town, ugh. Better to stay at top of towns.

jim pottinger in plano, tx USA 06/09/2010

Best: Hotel Diana in Lucca
Why: Large comfy sleeping/living room and nice sized bathroom. The electrical outlets accommodated U.S. voltage and plugs. I had four plug adapters with me, none of which worked in Italy. I had a flat iron for my hair and this was the only hotel where I could use it.

Jan Loveland in Key West, FL USA 06/07/2010

Best: residenzacellini in Rome
Why: Wonderful staff, great room, fabulous terrace on our floor. George was so helpful with dinner, directions and getting us ice for our afternoon cocktails on the terrace.

Rebecca Patterson in Sylva, NC USA 06/07/2010

Best: Hotel Montreal, Rome
Why: The staff in this hotel is outstanding. We left our vault in our room open and left for the day. When we realized it we went back to the hotel and the maid had locked the vault and gave the key to the front desk, nothing was missing. The staff should be congratulated on their honesty. Pasquale made our stay so special. I would recommend this hotel to anyone.

Diane Triolo in Gilbert, Az USA 06/06/2010

Worst: Venice Rentals
Why: The San Barbaba/Dorsodura apartment, described as a "beautiful, tastefully decorated three bedroom apartment" was in fact a lovely TWO bedroom apartment with a third damp, musty, smelly bedroom, a truly uncomfortable room. There are other Venice apartment rental sites. I would not use this one again.

Alice Glicksberg in Evanston, IL USA 06/04/2010

Best: Giuliano Basso in Vernazza
Why: Giuliano and Michelle are lovely, and their place is perfect. Beautiful views, a great room with bath that looked brand new, and finishing touches that you normally don't see at a small B and B (a towel heater!). We look forward to returning one day.

S. Clutter in Damascus, MD USA 06/03/2010

Best: Katti House in Florence
Why: A lovely stay! Clean room! Katti, who could not find a working alarm clock for us, woke up at 430 am just to wake us up in time to catch our plane! What service from a B and B!

S. Clutter in Damascus, MD USA 06/03/2010

Best: Heroic B&B Friendliness, www.bandbromeitaly.com, Via: Farini 52, flat 10, 5th Floor, 00185 Rome, Italay; email isaluo@alice.it
Why: Great bargain and location 3 blocks from Roma Termini for $80 Euros. This flat had only 3 doubles and the rooms were large and clean. It felt very safe and Isa was extremely helpful. Bathroom was shared but with only 2 other rooms and we only saw other visitors once.

Sandy Yamaoda in Pleasanton, CA USA 06/01/2010

Best: Casa di Santa Brgida
Why: Can imaine how wonderful it was to actually be on the Piazza Farnese and look out at the French Embassy and Farnese Fountains and listen to the sounds of Rome. The rooms are neat and tidy and antique furniture - simple but enough to be comfortable. Breakfast also simple and basic but then we ate two other meals each day so breakfast of tea/coffee, bread, salami/cheese and fruit yogurt was plenty.

Mary-London Eldred in Bremerton, WA USA 06/01/2010

Best: Hotel Zum Turm in Castelrotto
Why: I had two great nights in Castelrotto at Hotel Zum Turm (Alle Torre). My single room was large, clean, and well maintained (it looked new). The rate was very good. Breakfast was more than I expected, especially since there were not many people visiting Castelrotto in May (which was great). The owners were friendly and helpful. I would recommend this hotel to anyone.

Jim Perschbacher in Atlanta, GA USA 05/29/2010

Best: Frances Lodge, Siena
Why: Just gorgeous, the ultimate heaven on earth.

Cathy Horton in Perth, WA Australia 05/28/2010

Best: Carmere Elisabetta
Why: Reasonable rate, excellent location, clean, no-frills room Great view overlooking the Mediterranean and the city. Friendly, patient, helpful hosts.

Linda Eastman in Winters, CA USA 05/24/2010

Best: La Torretta - Manarola
Why: Great location up the hill. Very friendly staff. Very nice rooms with all the comforts of an upscale hotel. Best part was the welcome with wine, Prosecco & snack, as well as each evening. Loved the breakfast delivered to our room each morning.

Worst: Marina Piccola
Why: Very unfriendly staff. Very basic breakfast. We were in the quad room with a bathroom & great view & deck. There was mold growing in the bathroom ceiling, as well as the paint was peeling off the walls.

Susie Deyo in LaConner, WA USA 05/22/2010

Best: HOTEL EREMO GAUDIO!!
Why: Do I even have to say why? THE VIEWS!!! It was SO AMAZING! It was our favorite place! GORGEOUS! The Room was GREAT (we were on the top floor in the Lenno Room). AMAZING!!

Worst: Residence Trocker
Why: See Above

Carla and Warren Bird in Salem, OR USA 05/19/2010

Best: Hotel Alberga Marina in Cinque Terre, Monterossa al Mare
Why: The free lunch/dinner buffet was one of the best meals of our whole trip. Delicious fish and seafood risotto. The room was clean and quiet with a nice little private balcony. 3 English language tv stations available. Good location

Worst: Hotel Smeraldo, Rome
Why: It was hot and although the hotel is supposed to be air conditioned as advertised, we were told the owner was not allowing it to be turned on yet. We asked for a fan and got a funny look, said they would look to see if they had one, but they didn't. The room was stuffy and if we opened a window, there was loud street noise for a good part of the night. We even went out one day to look for ear plugs. So we had to choose between stuffy and quiet or loud and slightly less stuffy. One day, after a return from Pompeii, there was no hot water to take a shower. Would never stay here again.

Marty Abbott in Clarksville, IN USA 05/16/2010

Best: La Torretta B&B in Varenna
Why: We had room 107 and it was absolutely very large and lovely with it's antiques furniture, newly appointed bathroom and breathtaking views from our lovely, little balcony. Watching the ferries come and go from our balcony and people watching added fun to our downtime. The bed was comfortable and most importantly the room and the villa in general were very clean (spotless) The most spectacular thing about the place though, is Laura. If you are looking for the too familiar approach of some North American hosts with the litany of "honey, darling, and sweeties" mixed into your conversations then she is not for you, but if you can appreciate the demeanor of a professional woman who is warm and gracious in her reserved approach you will love her. You will also appreciate the genuine smiles you get when conversing with her. We were so very appreciative of her calm, respectful approach, sense of humour and professionalism that we would recommend this place and will definitely go back. Great job on putting places like Hotel Olivedo and La Torretta into the guidebook. Gems like this will keep me buying your books!

Brenda MacAlpine in Prince William, NB Canada 05/16/2010

Best: Hotel Olivedo in Varenna (Lake Como)
Why: Beautiful hotel in an excellent location. Large/comfortable room, and the best bed we slept in during our 15 day trip through northern Italy. Our room had a fantastic view - overlooking the lake and ferry terminal. Laura was very hospitable and gracious to us and the other guests - and served great meals. Overall a great and memorable stay!

Mark Antonioli in Alamo, CA USA 05/15/2010

Best: Hotel Garden -- our only selection
Why: Hospitality could not have been more gracious. Wonderful breakfast -- such unexpected variety of delicious food.

Sharon Kasper in Newcastle, WA USA 05/11/2010

Best: Hotel Umbra in Assisi
Why: Right on the square; spacious room with a charming view; reasonably priced; wonderful common patio with great view to sit and have a glass of wine

Ken Gedgaudas in Hollywood, CA USA 05/09/2010

Best: L'Erba Persa
Why: This real family farm was a fantastic alternative to staying inside the Cinque Terre. It's in Levanto, one town north of the 5T, and actually easier to get to because all the trains stop there (we had a direct connection from Milan). It's a short train ride to any of the Cinque Terre towns, and the ticket is covered by the Cinque Terre card, which you have to buy anyway to hike. The farm is a short walk from the train station, or the family is happy to pick up you and drop you off. When we first came in through the big gate, and walked up the gravel path under the vine-covered arches toward the old pink house, I was charmed. Then I saw the pony, and it was love. My husband and I stayed in the apartment, which was not fancy, but clean and comfortable and more than sufficient. Our favorite part was the (optional) cat who jumped in through the open windows and kept us company. The woman who runs the place is an incredibly kind and gracious hostess. When we arrived, she gave us a wealth of information about where to hike and where to eat and how to get around, and made calls about the price of boat tickets and train schedules for us. Her big breakfasts, homemade with local, organic ingredients, were the best we had anywhere in Italy. And the price was very reasonable. If you want to stay in a beautiful location with Italian friends you didn't know you had, this is the place to do it.

Amber in Cologne, Germany 05/05/2010

Worst: Elizabetta room in Vernazza
Why: one of the beds had dirty sheets - including pubic hair in the bed - discovered too late in the evening to have corrected. No excuse for not cleaning the linens!! Also, we found Elizabetta to be less than friendly - would discourage other travelers

Chuck Bradshaw in Franklin, VA USA 05/02/2010

Best: Perfect Location, nice B&B
Why: This B and B is well located and exceptionally clean. Parking is included. The internet is included also. Breakfast in complete.The town is great and perfect starting point to the other cities. Enjoy the views

Jeremy Dodd in New York, NY USA 04/30/2010

Best: Hotel Oceania in Rome
Why: Large room, private bath, great breakfast; yet had a old roman feeling.

Dennis Phelan in Portland, OR USA 04/25/2010

Best: B&B Corte Campana in Venice
Why: Ricciardo! He is the best! When we first arrived in Venice we got lost and he came and found us and guided us back to his B&B. He was so friendly, and gave us good suggestions as to where to eat and what to see. His B&B was charming, the room was lovey, spacious and very comfortable. I highly recommend Corte Campana and Ric!

Worst: Hotel Soggiorno Annamaria
Why: This hotel choice was doomed from the start. We arrived at the location and hit the buzzer designated "Soggiorno Annamaria" and the person that answered said that we were at the wrong place. I tried again and got no answer. I then called the hotel phone number and the person answering said that I only had a one night reservation even though I had the email confirmation for 2 nights. The owner came over from their affiliate hotel to let us in, and while it was a pleasant room it only had one small double bed even though I had an email confirmation for 2 twin beds for me and my adult daughter. That night was when the fun began. We were in a room with a window on the busy street side. Even with the windows and shutters closed, the loud noise from the people shouting and laughing, and the vehicles going up and down the street did not stop until around 1 or 2 in the morning. We got a few hours sleep until the sounds of the vendors and delivery folk woke us before sunrise. The next day we were moved to a room with 2 twin beds, but it unfortunately had the same noisy conditions. The icing on the cake was that the key to the front door never worked. We had to wait for someone to let us in each time we went out.

lorri cahill in placerville, ca USA 04/21/2010

Best: Yes Hotel in Rome
Why: We were unable to fly to Italy due to the Volcano in Iceland. We had to cancel all of our hotels for our "Second Honeymoon" which was awful as you can imagine. Most hotels had penalties for canceling without enough notice. The Yes Hotel in Rome did not charge us the penalty even though we cancelled just 48 hours before our stay. So, even though we didn't get a chance to stay there, because of that service we will definately stay there when we can back over to Italy.

David Newman in Grass Valley, CA USA 04/18/2010

Best: Hotel Ideale
Why: It had a beautiful view and was the shortest trip from the bus with our luggage for the entire trip.

Randy in Tulsa, OK USA 04/13/2010

Best: Private Rooms in the Cinque Terre
Why: Aegis was kind and reliable and his rooms were clean and affordable. This Italian delivered and was very trustworthy.

Brian in Fort Wayne, IN USA 04/12/2010

Best: Il Canto del Sole and Albergo Guerrato apartment. Also enjoyed Soggiorno Battistero and Hotel Due Torri
Why: Laura and Luciano and their son Marco were friendly, outgoing and fun.

David Westcott in Sacramento, CA USA 04/10/2010

Best: Villa Steno, Monterosso al Mare
Why: We went off season, in March, so the town and the hiking trail was deserted which suited us fine. Matteo and Clara at Villa Steno made us feel like royalty; we will definitely return. Plus, they did our laundry!

Anne Duda in Rocklin, CA USA 04/10/2010

Best: Hostel 5 Terre (Manarola)
Why: The only Rick Steves' recommended accommodation we used (we relied on Italian friends for the others). Cheap but good, with very helpful staff.

Greg Barnes in Seattle, WA USA 04/08/2010

Best: We stayed at the Katti House in Florence, Italy
Why: The location was wonderful. We had a house with 4 rooms that all had bathrooms. The house was clean and neat. We felt it had good security with locks and deadbolts on the main entrance and individual rooms. The owner was very helpful and accomadating. I would definitely stay ther again!!!!Thanks!!!!!

Mary Swanson in Ravenna, MI USA 03/31/2010

Best: Hotel Jolanda, S. Marg. Lig.
Why: High quality for a reasonable price. Excellent breakfast. Very helpful, professional staff.

Elaine in Livingston, MT USA 03/19/2010

Best: Albergo Bernini
Why: Surprisingly wonderful. Carlotta's hospitality made Siena one of favorite stops on the trip. The views from the window of our room and the terrace were postcard perfect. Bernini was the perfect "back door experience". I'll stay there again.

Worst: Albergo Parma in la Spezia
Why: filthy, the halls literally had dust covered garbage bags on top of cabinets and were so smoky that you didn't want to breathe. We had to change rooms twice; once for bad plumbing, once for overwhelming smoke smell. The heat went off in the middle of the night and there were no extra blankets. The bathroom was so moldy that we didn't even shower. It was our worst night in Italy. The owner was very nice and helpful, and it was convenient to the train station, but we would never stay there again and were quite surprised that it had been listed in a Rick Steve's book. The book said that it was a little worn, but we found filth. All other hotels recommended by Rick Steve's books on our trip were wonderful.

Lori Pedonti in Orlando, FL USA 01/22/2010

Best: Casa Selita in Orvieto
Why: Breathtakingly beautiful location just outside -- and beneath -- the walls of Orvieto with a spectacular view across the valley as well. Casa Selita is built in part on ancient Etruscan ruins, with extensive gardens and land,which gave us an almost timeless feeling. Yet Orvieto was just a short walk up the country pathway. The rooms are lovely, with all the modern conveniences and those amazing views. We can't say enough about this special place nor about Selita herself whom you will find, if you're fortunate enough to stay here, is one of the kindest and helpful people you're likely to meet.

Mike McCormack in Los Angeles, CA USA 01/20/2010

Best: Hotel popular with Americans in Cortona
Why: The location was central for exploring the hilltop towns of Tuscany and Umbria. We have stayed here twice.

Worst: Albergo Milano Varenna
Why: The owners were gracious and helpful; however, the hotel was not accessible by car except from several hundred yards in either direction. Although the hotel was nice enough, at 140 Euro it was not a value. It was more expensive than those in Venice or Paris. Considering the luggage, it's best to park at the Ferry landing and then take the lakefront walk to the hotel.

Ed & Rita Reed in Port Aransas, TX USA 01/19/2010

Best: Pensione Palazzo Ravizza, Siena
Why: Room had a view of the garden, great location. We met and talked to Lisa of the Book Shop (which is now located right at this Pensione) for almost an hour--nice lady.

John W. Long in Buckeye, AZ USA 12/01/2009

Best: Grand Hotel Ambasciatori
Why: Clean, safe, spacious, friendly staff.

Worst: None...but...
Why: did send some inquiries to lodging that received no response.

Lloyd in Mill Creek, WA USA 11/29/2009

Best: Il Bargellino, Florence
Why: So many reasons...It's like being invited into an English speaking Italian home. Being a single woman traveler, it was perfect for me with a single bed room right next to the bathroom. The terrace was warm and relaxing, and has a clothes line for hanging out some wash. And when I had a broken loop on my convertible backpack, Pino arranged for someone to run down to the hardware store for a part to repair it. Carmella made museum reservations, and changes too, when my flight to Italy was cancelled and had to be rescheduled. The location was great.(within walking distance to train station and just about everything important) Carmella and Pino go out of their way for their guests, both before and during the visit. Great accommodations and price.

Terri in Central Point, Or USA 11/21/2009

Best: All noted below were Clean and well located
Why: Very friendly two run by the owners some minor language gaps but that's easily worked out. I will use these again as I am planning to go again 2011 and revisit with less emphasis on major sites. Albergo Marin - Venice, Katti House - Florence, Camere Fontana Vecchia - Vernazza

Worst: Hotel Selene
Why: Front desk was not welcoming and the room was done in dark brown felt like I was in a cave, need more light. The hotel was well located, breakfast staff was friendly and welcoming so I would go back. It was also very quite a real plus in a city

Tom & Laura in Denville, NJ USA 11/18/2009

Worst: Egi's Rooms in Vernazza
Why: Egi is a scam artist. I want to help save people from having the same experience that we did. Egi gets people to reserve his rooms in advance with a credit card at a certain price, and then he waits at the train station daily for people arriving in Vernazza without rooms and sees if he can get them to pay a higher price. And then he gives the rooms to those new people and completely disregards the people that made advance reservations with him! Which is illegal. We made advance reservations on Aug. 10 for two of his rooms for Sept. 21-Sept. 24. I confirmed the reservations on Aug. 10 via email and via phone AND gave him my credit card number, and he confirmed our reservation as well. I arrived in Vernazza with my husband and our two mothers the first day of our reservation and we waited for Egi for 2 hours. He never came. The locals tried to help us by calling him (no answer of course) and helping us find other rooms (none available). One of the locals trying to help us owns a pizza shop next door to him, and she told us that Egi is a "crazy man." She was right. So, there we were at 8:00 p.m. with 4 people and no room for the night. Everything ended up working out for the best b/c we - finally - found a fantastic hotel in Monterosso - Hotel Cinque Terre - and it was much better than our experience would ever have been staying at Egi's - we obviously would have gotten no response or help from him if something would have gone wrong in the rooms, there was no breakfast, we saw that there were TONS of steep stairs to get up to his place, and we heard from people staying there that his rooms aren't very nice, etc. We hope that Egi will be removed from Rick Steves' recommendations in the future.

Kelly in San Diego, CA USA 11/17/2009

Best: Stayed at none
Why: Several because we could not get reservations or, based on Trip Advisor and Venere reviews, decided not to select them.

Richard Raub in Portland, OR USA 11/17/2009

Best: Il Rosario in Rome and Ca'Rezzonico in Venice
Why: The staff were exceptional in their kindness to tourists and the rooms were impeccable.

Worst: Never found any really bad ones but Albergo Barbara in Vernazza was difficult.
Why: The rooms in Albergo Barbara are up 83 steps -a lot to haul luggage but the rooms were very nice.

Mary Bruce in Surrey, BC Canada 11/16/2009

Best: Katti House
Why: We ended up staying across the street at their other property, but loved the room and the price. The location is perfect for Florence sight-seeing. After our tiny room in Rome, the size the this room was delightful. Francesco, Anna Maria and Katti are great and caretaking hosts.

Worst: Hotel Smeraldo
Why: The price and location for this hotel make it hard to call it the "worst." We found it to be the best location for all we wanted to do, and along a relatively quiet street. The gripes: front desk staff were only marginally helpful and just "friendly" enough so we could not say "rude." The room was very small and there was no ventilation working - air had been turned off and heat had not yet been turned off. We did not need either, but would have loved some air moving around the very stuffy room. The bed was like a plank and sheets were pretty rough. The roof garden was not open in the evening and there were no chairs to sit down. Still, having said all that - still a wonderful location.

Susan Beach in Forest Park, IL USA 11/16/2009

Best: Erba Persa Agriturismo in Levanto Italy
Why: We arrived very late in the evening and Claudio picked us up at the train station and even took us to a restaurant for dinner in town.We planned on only 2 nights at Erba Persa but after finding it a great place to use as our home base in the Cinque Terre our hosts Grazia and Claudio were able to accomodate our request for 2 more nights. Being only a 10 min walk to the train station we were able to take advantage of the very reasonably priced rail service. The farmhouse is old but colorful and sits on an acreage with gardens and a horse and dogs and cats and birds and donkeys. The breakfast included was plentiful with breads, cereals, fruits, pastries, cheeses, yogurt , coffee, milk, juice and more. We did a lot of walking and hiking around the Levanto area and always felt safe and secure. The rooms were old but comfortable and very clean. It is just the kind of place we prefer when we travel. Grazia was also very helpful in finding us places to go in the Cinque Terre area and elsewhere even making phone calls for us and allowing us use of the computer. Very nice experience and the cost was reasonable with no hidden costs. The hosts were always gracious to us and all the guests. Deb thought this trip to the Cinque Terre was her favorite of all the trips we've taken in the last 30 years. als

Irv and Deb Espedal in Deforest, WI USA 11/15/2009

Best: Residence Adler, Rome and Palazzo Bruchi B & B, Siena
Why: Residence Adler was a quiet, calm respite from crazy Rome. Bruno, at the front desk was so helpful. We printed our boarding passes for our return trip at the front desk. Palazzo Bruchi B&B was charming. Camilla was always available for questions, printing out train schedules for us. Breakfast was the best, served in a room that made us feel like royalty. The Italy 2009 book was our bible for getting around, thank you!

Kathleen and Martin Zanetti in Louisville , Co USA 11/15/2009

Best: Nicholas Inn-Rome
Why: Great owners. Very helpful. Great location. Made you feel like family. Restaurant recommendations were amazing! I found this hotel on Trip Advisor and later saw it was in the Italy 2010 guidebook. Almost want to keep it to myself!!!

Nancy Antin in Minneapolis, MN USA 11/14/2009

Worst: Egi's Rooms in Vernazza
Why: Egi is certainly a nice guy, but his rooms are a complete rip off. There is a reason he asks for cash when you arrive -- you would never stay two nights in his "rooms". Futon for a bed, dirt ball artwork, a "bathroom" smaller than a closet in my house with a shower head that simply sprays all over the "bathroom", a sink you can't stand in front of (the wall is 6" from the sink) and a toilet you can't stand at (the ceiling comes right over the toilet so sitting would be a challenge for a tall person. AND, it was the most expensive room in our two weeks in Italy! Rick's recommendations are typically spot on - this one however, was as misguided as it can be.

Peter in Naperville, IL USA 11/08/2009

Best: Residenza il Villino, Florence, Italy
Why: My partner and I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Residenza il Villino in Florence in October. I could go on and on about this wonderful establishment. Our room was very spacious with a small outside patio overlooking the inner courtyard and with a view of Il Duomo in the distance over the rooftops. The location is perfect, in a quiet residential area, where you feel like you are actually living in Florence and not just around a bunch of other tourists. At the same time, the location is perfect, just a quick walk to the Piazza S. Giovanni, and the Accademia is about two blocks away. There are numerous small shops and restaurants in the area as well. The breakfast served is very good with a variety of pastries, breads and cereals, and the staff is always happy to brew a special cup of espresso for you. There are two computers in the dining area with Internet access as well as daily newspapers. The best thing about Il Villino, however, is the staff, particularly Sergio, Elisabetta, and Lorenzo. During our stay there, my partner fell ill with the flu. Everyone went out of their way to help us, offering to call a doctor, and helping us to rearrange our travel plans. On our last day there, when my partner was feeling better, Elisabetta helped us to obtain same day tickets for the Accademia so that my partner would not miss this. Having this kind of assistance while in a foreign country was so reassuring for us. We hope to return to Florence in the future and when we do we definitely plan to stay again at Il Villino again.

Douglas Hanlin in San Francisco, CA USA 11/08/2009

Worst: Casa di Sara, Venice, Italy
Why: Overall I have to say our experience at Casa di Sara "kinda sucked" (too put it bluntly). The accommodations were acceptable overall but there were a lot of negative touches that made us regret staying there.

The ensuite bathroom was actually connected to our neighbor's with an open-air transom of sorts so we could hear them (and they us) quite clearly (even with the bathroom door closed). We had issues with hot water when taking a shower as well. The decor of the rooms was not charming and suggested the owners had raided a local garage sale (or whatever the Venetian equivalent is). Our bathroom sink was located in the bedroom and perhaps as a result of previous guests the parquet floor beneath had come loose so whenever I went to the sink barefooted inevitably I walked away with part of the floor stuck to my feet (that I'd then studiously replace only to repeat later).

Perhaps the most damning was that our interactions with the majority of the staff (I'd say the Italian members rather than the Asians) left us with the distinct feeling that we were bothering them.

I'd just like to close by saying this is our 3rd time to Italy and we've stayed at a variety of places from high to low and been happy with the vast majority of them. Even in this case I'd say we didn't have a miserable experience but were notably disappointed.

Rob Moore in Austin, TX USA 11/07/2009

Worst: Hotel Marina, Monterosso Al Mare, Cinque Terre
Why: We stayed here based on the recommendation in the Italy 2009 edition. Unfortunately, the room was full of mold. We requested a room change, as I have a mold allergy, and we were told the were full. The young American woman at the desk was very rude. We walked all over town trying to find a different room but we were not able to find one. This caused me to be medicated for our entire stay just to sleep in that room. Perhaps Rick hasn't been there in a while, because I can't believe he would recommend such an icky place.

Linda Munizza in LaGrange Park, IL USA 11/05/2009

Best: VILLA MARGHERITA B&B, LEVANTO
Why: Just first class a operation in every respect. Clean and classy but be prepared to walk up and down stairs as it is on a hillside. And would you believe free, indoor parking? This is almost unheard of in Europe. This is a great place to stay for travelers with a car who want to visit Cinque Terre. You can leave your car and take the train or boat to visit the towns. The train station or boat landing are just a short walk away.

WILLIAM RODRIGUEZ in JACKSONVILLE, FL USA 11/05/2009

Best: Alma Domus in Siena
Why: Quiet, clean and an amazing view from my room of the Duomo! They served breakfast and the front desk staff spoke English, and I really found that helpful.

Worst: Ostello 5 Terre
Why: Bathroom and shower stalls are too small, and no private place to dress and undress. Otherwise: The staff was very helpful, spoke English, food was very good, it was clean, and quiet. (unless you have a room mate who snores)

Terri in Central Point, Or USA 10/31/2009

Best: B&B Palazzo Bruchi di Camilla Masignani, Siena
Why: It was like staying in a palace. The location was great, short walk to Il Campo. Camilla and her staff pampered us and made us feel right at home. I highly recommend Palazzo Bruchi, and hope to visit them again.

J Tallarico in Livermore, CA USA 10/26/2009

Best: Levanto Villa Margherita
Why: Levanto is less touristy than Cinque Terre, but easy access the CT with a nice beach and market. Villa Margherita was quiet, had internet access & the smell of chocolate croissants baking each morning was the wake-up call.

Worst: Florence Il Bargellino
Why: Too noisy. The first nite from inside (a dinner or party) followed by outside noise both nites from the street (arguments, dogs, etc.) until after 3 am. Request a room off the street & hope it's not party nite inside.

Suzanne Chabon in Greensboro, NC USA 10/26/2009

Best: Hotel Orion in Venice
Why: Very accomodating staff. The location can't be beat. The room was clean, spacious and had great views.

Heidi Fryman in minneapolis, Mn USA 10/21/2009

Best: apartments in Verona, L'Ospite Federica De Rossi, and in Bellagio, El Dorgo
Why: The apartments were lovely, conveniently located, cheaper than a hotel of similr quality and . . . we were able to relax better there than in a hotel room.

We also enjoyed making our own light meals. Flavio, at l'Osipte, told us where the shops were, so we easily found all we needed. In Bellagio, the other Flavio was ill, but we easily found a general market and produce shop.

Mikel and Rolly Morrison in Seattle, WA USA 10/20/2009

Best: Hotel Villa Elda in Siena
Why: Gracious, helpful concierges, elegant, clean, comfortable accommodation with minibar.

Worst: Settimo Cielo, Sorrento
Why: Drab, depressing, dirty, low-budget, a chunk of plaster cut out of the wall, scuff marks on wall, several power outages, a water supply outage; lame breakfast, stale cereal, terrible powdered coffee & drinks dispenser machine!

Kathy Healy in Manhattan Beach, CA USA 10/17/2009

Best: Podere IL Pero (B&B
Why: Excellent accommodations and great breakfasts plus really nice hosts (treat you like frineds)

Ray Kirk in Thorburn , NS Canada 10/12/2009

Worst: Palazzo Starace
Why: The staff was totally unhelpful -- didn't speak Italian or English. I certainly don't think staff should speak English, but Italian seems reasonable (and one or two words of English could help). There's no reception desk, and communication about check in and check out times was a disaster. I've stayed in Sorrento again and know there are many better options.

Sarah USA 10/12/2009

Worst: Hotel Selene - Roma
Why: When we arrived to check into our room we were informed, after charging our credit card, that there was a problem with our room. They said that we were being moved to another 3 star hotel owned by the same company 1 block away. Our new room in the Hotel Nizza was a dump. The bathroom was covered in mildew. The shower did not have a shower curtain or door. There were no light fixtures, just bare light bulbs. In the hall a man was chiseling holes in the wall and pulling out the old wiring. They advertised the hotel as having air conditioning but the thermostat in our room was broken. Our room was directly over a dumspter and we were kept up all night by all the local restaraunts emptying their trash.

Do not stay at Hotel Selene or Hotel Nizza!

Richard Torbett in Piney Flats, TN USA 10/11/2009

Best: La Magnolia B&B in Orvieto
Why: Loved the frescoed ceilings, terrazzo, huge bathroom, well-stocked kitchen, could have stayed there for weeks.

Worst: Ca'San Trovaso- Venice
Why: Most expensive room, the extra bed leg fell off during the night, cheesy furniture and INSTANT COFFEE and pre-wrapped pastries for breakfast. Never again.

Diane in Salem, OR USA 10/11/2009

Best: Hotel Villa Steno in Monterossa
Why: Carla and Matteo were amazingly gracious and helpful hosts. The breakfast they provided each day was lovely, the rooms were spotless and the balcony of our room may be our favorite spot in all of Italy. It was wonderful to be able to go to sleep with our balcony doors open to the night air and gentle noises that bubbled up from the town. If you are able to easily climb the steps to get to this spot, I cannot recommend it more highly. It was wonderful. Also loved our stay at Albergo Milano in Varenna. Edgy and Bettina are wonderful hosts. The rooms with the terraces have great views, but do lack the privacy that some guests might prefer.

Lauren in Bloomington, MN USA 10/11/2009

Best: Hotel Villa Margherita in the Cinque Terre Parkland
Why: Rooms and interior were clean and airy. Staff friendly and helpful. Well kept and relaxing gardens. Short walk to train station and a pleasant stroll to the city centre and beach area.

Roger Altman in Buffalo, NY USA 10/09/2009

Best: we loved Hotel Garda in Milan, hotel Fontana in Venice, Palazo Bruchi in Siena, Maria Capellini in Vernazza, and Hotel Accademia in Florence
Why: They were all very well situated, and the rooms were nice. We don't have a worst, but the stairs at the Accademia (75 of them) to get to our second floor room were a killer! The hotel was in perfect spot so we forgot about the stairs......

Margo in Cadegan, Canada 10/07/2009

Worst: Varenna, Italy Hotel Olivedo
Why: Varenna, Italy Hotel Olivedo, is the worst hotel I have stayed at in over 40 years of European travel. Laura is a mean huckster and the rooms are terrible, noisy and the bath was dangerous for seniors. The place needs to be removed from the guide book. We canceled out of the place after one night w/o sleep after a big argument with Laura and drove to St. Moritz. What a lucky break!!!

Thomas Elmquist in Woodbury, MN USA 10/06/2009

Best: Soggiorno Batistero in Florence
Why: Kelly & Luca made us feel at home, took care of our museum bookings, and the location can't be beat. We felt we were staying in the Duomo, we were that close.

Terri in San Francisco, CA USA 10/04/2009

Best: Hotel Aberdeen, Rome
Why: Very clean, spacious room, great location and price, and really helpful and nice staff.

Marina Simian in Washington, DC USA 10/01/2009

Best: Hotel Umbra, Assisi
Why: Great combination of in the center of things, views, their own restaurant, and very friendly staff.

Ralph Perry in Cincinnati, Oh USA 09/30/2009

Best: Palazzina Cesira in Montalcino
Why: Lucilla and Roberto prepared excellent breakfasts, and were very warm and attentive to their guests. Our room, though not the quiet upstairs room we requested, had a tiny balcony right on the via where we could enjoy a glass of wine while watching the townspeople and tourists go by. The free Wi-Fi was also much appreciated. We would definitely return.

Worst: Camere Fontana Vecchia in Vernazza
Why: When we arrived after a tiring train trip from Lucca involving two transfers and lots of steps with our luggage, we called Anna who met us in just a few minutes. We had booked a room with her in January 2009, and had confirmed it with her within the previous month. She told us that she had made a "terrible mistake," and she did not have a room for us. Luckily, she had a friend who could provide one for us. She then explained that the people renting our room for the past couple days had wanted to extend their visit for two days, and she gave THEM our reserved room. To add insult to injury, she then proceeded to tell us she still had the 3rd night of our reservation available, but of course she could not rent it to us for just one night!!! Our room with Signore Callas Sergio (Gemmini Rooms) was clean and spacious, and directly across from the Blue Marlin Bar. Once we realized it wasn't going to be the quiet room promised by Anna, we simply relaxed and joined the fun. The trains were a bit loud, but that also has made a great story, and this was one of our favorite stays. While Anna's rooms may be as delightful as you describe (we'll never know), her untrustworthy behavior as an innkeeper is quite out of character with the delightful, helpful proprieters typically recommended in your guides. This is the only really negative experience we have had in two trips to Italy.

Pamela Stutts in Virginia Beach, VA USA 09/27/2009

Best: Venice - Pensione Albergo Guerrato
Why: A very beautiful old building (Est. 1288). Our room was spacious, beautiful, very clean, air conditioned and full bathroom. Very close to Rialto Bridge but a street back so very quiet. The staff was very gracious and helpful. Nice breakfast in a beautiful dining room included. They kindly stored our backpacks the day after checkout so we were unencumbered till we caught the night train. They also recommended a wonderful little restaurant called Da Sandro nearby.

Mike, Luz, Kai in Blaine, WA USA 09/25/2009

Best: Vernazza - Egi's Rooms - The Orange Room
Why: We are so lucky that Egi spotted us. We had just spent two wonderful days in Vernazza and were desperately looking for another room to extend our stay. Vernazza is addictive, we needed more. The three of us (two adults, one child) were standing below the train station with cell phone in hand, looking forlorn. We had called every number, rang every Camere bell and asked at every pizzeria, gelateria, restaurant and bar. We didn't want to leave. A young man, Egi, approached and asked if we were looking for a room. He had a vacancy for four nights and of course we took it. He has several rooms, the one we stayed in is the Orange Room. It sleeps four, has a full bathroom and kitchen. The location is right on the main "street", just a few doors from the main plaza, Piazza Marconi. Just outside the exterior door you are meters from delicious gelato, pizza, fish, and more. Even though the rooms are just meters from the main plaza they are on the building's central courtyard, and so very quiet. The view out the windows is scenic, but not in the usual way. You look out on the real Italy, families, laundry, living and working, daily life. Fascinating and charming. Egi and Sonia are wonderful people and treated us like family. The room is large, quiet, beautiful, comfortable and very clean. We enjoyed our stay very much. Thank you Egi and Sonia.

Mike, Luz, Kai in Blaine, WA USA 09/25/2009

Best: Vernazza - Ivo's Rooms - Ivo's Apartment
Why: We feel so lucky that we found Ivo and his beautiful Apartment. Our family (two adults and one child) were in Vernazza with no room for the night (reservation lost or miscommunicated by a different Camere). Rooms are very difficult to get during August and we had called every number, rang every Camere door buzzer and asked at every pizza parlor, gelateria, restaurant and bar... no luck. Ivo chased us down, caught up to us at the train station and offered us a room for two nights. Of course we accepted. Ivo is our hero. Nice man, beautiful room and he and his brother make great pizza and focaccia at Pizzeria F.lli Basso. The room was spacious, has bathroom and shower, comfortable, very clean and beautiful. At night we could hear the waves on the rocks. The apartment is very near the action but far enough through the charming paths to be very quiet. The apartment is located on Via Mazzini, a very charming and atmospheric lane... like a movie set or postcard. Also make sure you eat at Pizzeria Basso. The food is delicious, the location is handy, the ambience is great and the prices good. Ivo and his brother treated us like family and made us great food until we were stuffed. We enjoyed our stay very much. Thank you Ivo and thank you Vernazza.

Mike, Luz, Kai in Blaine, WA USA 09/25/2009

Best: Hotel Del Corso
Why: Can't beat the location 100 yards from Piazza Tasso! Asked for a room away from the main street as per the guidebook, it was spacious, clean, and quiet.

Mike in LA, CA USA 09/18/2009

Best: Hotal al Lupo (zum Wolf) in Castelrotto & Hotel Riva in Venice
Why: Hotel al Lupo was the best hotel that we have stayed in while in Europe. Rooms were extremely clean and spacious. The staff was very polite and answered any questions that we had. The laundry facilities worked well for us as we packed light. Great self-serve bar where you can meet-up with other hotel guests.

Hotel Riva was a very clean hotel in Venice with the front desk manned 24/7. We had a canal room w/o air conditioning. We did hear canal noise, but used ear plugs which did the trick. Did get a few mosquito bites but nothing major (we get it worse here in Wisconsin). Breakfast was small (rolls w/ jam) but the cappuccino's were excellent.

Chris & Kelly Leu in Sheboygan, WI USA 09/14/2009

Best: Il Bargello B & B
Why: Friendliness of the staff, cleanliness of the B&B, outdoor space on the rooftop, location to everything...walked everywhere, reasonable price (love the Rick Steves discount), wonderful towels!!

Maria Neatherton in Palm Desert, CA USA 09/13/2009

Best: Venice - Hotel al Ponte Mocenigo
Why: Lovely room, lovely small hotel away from the mass of tourists. Very helpful and friendly staff. Excellent breakfast in courtyard. A bargain for Venice (esp. with cash discount) but didn't feel at all like anything cut-rate. Highly recommended.

Craig Sale in Brookfield, IL USA 09/08/2009

Best: The Beehive and Hotel Italia
Why: The Beehive was cheap and quiet and very friendly. I slept with a face mask and earplugs which I found greatly improves any accommodations in Italy. Hotel Italia was 50 Euros for a single with breakfast. They accept credit cards now. Very comfortable and friendly. They have your guidebooks near the breakfast room.

Mary Catherine Donnelly in Brooklyn, NY USA 09/01/2009

Best: B&B Dei Mori in Florence
Why: See above.

Karen in Reading, MA USA 08/30/2009

Best: Casa Masoli, Ravenna
Why: If you go to Ravenna, this was the best of all possible worlds. It was extremely close to all of the site seeing places and old town center. We didn't drive once we arrived there. The elderly signore Masoli was charming! She doesn't speak much English, but it didn't matter. We limped by on our bit of Italian and were able to communicate just fine. The atmosphere is so warm! There are only a few rooms, but the one we had was huge, had a huge bathroom and a door that led into a beautiful courtyard. It was one of our most favorite hotels for the charm and location.

Worst: none from the book
Why: We used the book faithfully. Not a single one of the recommendations were disappointing. We did branch out from the book a couple of times...For example the Amalfi recommended hotels were too limited and we found a wonderful hotel on our own...Villa Lara (I added it above.)

Christina Anderson in Hacienda Heights, CA USA 08/19/2009

Best: Hotel Lupo, Castelrotto and Hotel Aberdeen
Why: Locations are excellent and Arno of Hotel Lupo is so helpful! We all love our stay in Castelrotto and Rome

Worst: I did not follow your accommodation recommendation in Florence
Why: Will do next time!!

Anita Szeto in Hong Kong, 08/17/2009

Best: Hotel Mediterraneo, Santa Margherita Ligura
Why: This is a long overdue letter of commendation for Pia. Unfortunately Expedia and Hertz promised that a car would be waiting for us. It never happened. Pia immediately had a replacement car delivered to the hotel, saving a major component of our vacation. Her enthusiastic help was typical of our entire week at the hotel. The room was a delight, the food was excellent, but we especially appreciated the warm and genuine support. Thank you.

Rick Swinth in Santa Rosa, CA USA 08/16/2009

Best: Cinque Terra - "Locanda il Maestrale" - Monterosso.
Why: This was a great hotel - location, breakfast, grand view from the breakfast terrace, very friendly Giovani, and lovely rooms. The entire Cinuque Terra experience was one of our favorites in a 6 week driving tour of Italy. Staying in the 'old town' section of Monterosso kept us away from the sizable crush of tourists and their yellow beach umbrellas without sacrificing accessibility to the hiking trails which abound in the area. A great restaurant - L'Alta Marea - was right across the street from the hotel and yes, another Rick's recommendations.

Worst: Hotel Ideale - Assisi, Italy
Why: From Rick's 2009 Italy book: Hotel Ideale in Assisi was ideally located and a nice property - beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. However, the staff needs an injection of caring for its cliental. The older woman/cook/inkeeper was a very charming person - but - once the old guy in the white pants and red shirt appeared, the mood dramatically took a downward turn. He was loud, rude, threw a pen and pad of paper on the counter when I requested some information, and at 9:30 when the breakfast time was through, he cleared the tables to the point of taking plates, forks, coffee off tables while we were still finishing up. Yes, a very rude fellow indeed. We stayed at the hotel for 2 nights and his attitude did not change nor fluctuate from his condescending attitude and behavior. Sad that this fellow was such a negative contributor to an otherwise great experience in Assisi.

Stephen S. Anderson in Hacienda Heights, CA USA 08/16/2009

Best: Residenza il Villino in Florence
Why: This was one of the nicest places we have ever stayed, and we've done a lot of traveling. The staff at this residenza was extremely helpful, even though we had to change our travel plans several times. The rooms were fantastic, and the residenza was a five minute walk to the Duomo. The Accademia and the Monastery San Marco were just around the corner. I don't believe that there's a better place to stay in Florence!

The breakfast was great, and Sergio even made us multiple cappuccinos to go with breakfast.

They recommended a local restaurant in their neighborhood, Acquacotta (via dei Pilastri 51), run by a young couple, that was superb! Best cheesecake ever.

Ruth MacNaughton in Oakland, CA USA 08/16/2009

Best: Hotel Pensione Guerrato
Why: Location and the staff was exceptional! The staff was always available to help us in anyway possible. We really enjoyed all the fresh fruit that was so convenient.

Jim Colgan in Bixby, OK USA 08/15/2009

Best: Hotel Due Torri in Rome
Why: Hotel Due Torri is located in the heart of Rome about a 5 minute walk from the Pantheon. It is a small boutique hotel with great rooms (and air-conditioning) and breakfast. The staff is very accomodating. We enjoyed this hotel very much and would recommend it to anyone who wants to stay in a small hotel on a tiny street with all the color and atmosphere you could ask for.

Thomas Strayhorn in Snyder, TX USA 08/12/2009

Worst: Casa Olmata Hostel Rome
Why: The hostel has 2 facilities and we were escorted to a residental building that looks good from the outside, but was absolutely horrid inside. The rooms were in complete disrepair--you could see between the doorjam and the strikeplate because the wood was rotted away. The bathrooms were far worse with mold everywhere--I cringe just remembering it. The people running it were so nice and kind but I would NEVER stay there again. Please remove it from your book. It does say backpackers hostel but it unacceptable.

Julie Andrews in Penryn, CA USA 08/07/2009

Best: Grand Hotel Ambasciatori Sorrento
Why: Everything a hotel in its class should be. Professional, friendly and helpful staff.

Laura in Kirkland, Wa USA 08/04/2009

Best: La Mala, Vernazza
Why: Beautiful room and views

Sazia Samad in London, UK 07/27/2009

Worst: Hotel Duxi, Riomaggiore
Why: One more problem my wife reminded me of. The ceiling of our bedroom was flaking paint above the bed and the room was too small to move the bed. When I told the man at the front desk he shrugged his shoulders. Not impressive. I think this was room 2.

Jim Jamieson in Eugene, Or USA 07/21/2009

Best: Hotel Colonnina in Monterosso
Why: Warm and helpful staff. Great rooms and view!!

Worst: Hotel Duxi
Why: Noise issues

Jim Jamieson in Eugene, OR USA 07/20/2009

Best: Hotel Desiree, Sorrento on Via Capo
Why: The price was right, the views were spectacular, the breakfast was good, the staff was quite helpful. They provided info and local maps for us. There was a free beach to swim.

Panella's Residence in Florence was a close second. Large rooms, delicious breakfasts, cheerful and helpful proprietor.

Worst: Locanda la Corte, Venezia
Why: This is the first place we stayed at. The person on duty spoke limited english. We were supposed to mention our cash discount upon checking in, but she said nothing to us but here is your key and Bueno Note (good night). I thought it was crass to bring it up so I said nothing. When we checked out, we had to pay the VAT tax even though we paid in cash because we didn't mention the discount upon check in. I reconfirmed the rate stated upon check in at all other places we stayed at.

Iris Posin in Deerfield Beach, FL USA 07/19/2009

Best: Hotel Belvedere, Assisi
Why: Enrico was friendly and helpful - a dear friend! What a view that hotel has, all changes they've made through the years make it even better. My husband and I bought a bottle of wine from enoteca Lombardi two doors down at #9. He was friendly, and knows his wine. He was able to inform us which was light/hearty, and told us NEVER to ship wine... ^-^ We opened one bottle and enjoyed it on the terrace overlooking the beautiful valley.

Christine Elias in Vancouver, Wa USA 07/17/2009

Best: Hotel Il Saraceno, Volastra, Cinque Terre
Why: This hotel isn't in your guide but should be. It was the best we stayed at in our two week trip to Italy and France. The lady that owns and runs it is colorful, warm and genuine. She has lived in Volastra all of her life. My daughters and I felt at home there. English is spoken. She just rebuilt the place a few years ago and everything is quite nice. The breakfast is high quality. A bus runs between a stop just a few steps from the hotel to Manarola so seeing the rest of Cinque Terre is easy. An added plus for us was the secure parking for our car. I really enjoyed being in Volastra as it is a quiet Italian town where one can walk and not see other tourists.

Here is the contact info: 39 0187 760081 www.thesaraceno.com email:hotel@thesaraceno.com

Brandon Johnson in Encinitas, CA USA 07/17/2009

Best: Hotel Ideale in Assisi
Why: It is beautifully situated, with a great view of the valley and country side - our room (with a balcony, as recommended to request in the Italy 2009 book) was perfect! The breakfast was among the best we had in Italy and the personal attention to detail by the owner was fantastic.

Worst: Hotel Montreal in Rome
Why: This was the only hotel, of the 6 recommended hotels from the Italy 2009 Book, that we felt did not live up to it's description in the book. Our room was dirty (floor, walls, etc.) The one thing I insist on is a clean room. Also the front desk staff were rather abrupt, almost bordering on being discourteous. It was a disappointment.

Marianne Greer in Saskatoon, SK Canada 07/13/2009

Best: Residenza Cellini in Rome
Why: Great location. Fantastic Staff. Beautiful accomodations. Great breakfast in the morning. Everything about it was perfect. They even threw in a bottle of sparling wine one night that we enjoyed on the roof top patio. A perfect finish to a day of sightseeing. Would highly recommend and go back.

Jo Bennett in Laurinburg, NC USA 07/12/2009

Best: Hotel Milano in Varenna
Why: Although our room was tiny with a small lake view if you stood at the window, this hotel was well located between the ferry dock and the town square. There were other larger lake facing rooms, but unfortunately for us, we had booked after they were taken. I'm glad we got a room!! We thoroughly enjoyed our breakfasts and one dinner on their beautiful terrace. BUT the thing that we loved the most was the kindness and helpfulness of the staff. Right after we had checked out and were on the train on our way to catch the Bernina Express into Switzerland, we realized we had left our hiking poles--that we had purchased and carted all the way to Europe-- behind the door in our room. As soon as we arrived at our hotel in Switzerland, we called back and asked if our hiking poles had been found....they had!!! After discussing the best way to be reunited with our poles (shipping to our hotel in Wengen where we would arrive days later)we were surprised the next morning to get an e-mail from Bettina (the owner, with her husband, of Hotel Milano) that her husband Egidio (sp?) would be coming to the St. Moritz area very near our hotel, and that he would bring the poles and deliver them to our hotel!!! Wow!! We were so fortunate that he was coming that way (a several hour trip), but how amazing that he would be willing to go out of his way to bring them to us! We were out hiking when he arrived and our poles were waiting for us when we returned. I am just sorry we were not there to thank him in person. That is service above and beyond the norm!!!!

Paula Parker in Atlanta, GA USA 07/11/2009

Best: Hotel Adler in Rome and Casa Cosmo in Venice
Why: Both were very clean, cost effective and excellent staff. Also the location of each was excellent

Dr. Robert Kiner in Sioux Falls, SD USA 07/09/2009

Best: Hotel Campiello, Venice;Hotel Torre Guelfa, Florence; Hotel Villa Steno, Monteross al mare
Why: We had stayed in the same places 2 years ago and returned with our group of 7-family. It was just as great as we remembered. Nice rooms, great breakfast. Best in Venice.

Jeanette Finlon in Seattle, WA USA 07/09/2009

Best: Casa Massini, Ravenna
Why: Fabulous rooms! Very large, huge bed, frescoed ceiling, giant bathrooms, very clean, lovely breakfast, very friendly.

Worst: La Magnolia, Lucca
Why: Did not give us the room promised, room #1 with no ensuite bathroom and the room smelled like cat urine. They did give us a discount when I complained at checkout.

Lorraine in Newbury, VT USA 07/05/2009

Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: Cute clean room, great people, decent breakfast. Came down to E100.00 for us. And free wifi. Good location. It was the first place we stayed and a nice kickoff to our vacation.

Worst: Fawlty Towers Hostel
Why: Nasty showers, poor layout of bathrooms in general. No window coverings. Stayed for convenience before and early flight but I would not recommend. Front desk clerk was asleep in a chair when we came to check out in the morning. :)

Michaela Baglietto in Medford, OR USA 07/05/2009

Best: Boutique Hotel Villa Margherita,Levanto
Why: Very friendly staff, lovely grounds and outlook. Room was part of the 'new wing' and was very comfortable with a large bathroom. Overall we were very happy with our stay

Ray Bansemer in Wongaling Beach, Australia 07/03/2009

Worst: Hotel Genevra in Naples
Why: Let me count the ways -- all of them begin with "dreadful."

Deborah in North Port, FL USA 06/27/2009

Best: Villa Steno in Monterosso
Why: Lovely views, very clean, wonderful staff. We also really liked the Torre Guelfa in Florence. Nice rooms, helpful staff and great location.

Mary in Tucson, AZ USA 06/22/2009

Best: Oceania Hotel in Rome
Why: What a great hotel to stay at!! The staff is so amazing and the coffee is the best in Italy. The rooms are so clean and so big, and what can we say about airconditioning in June in Rome? We stayed a fabulous 6 days and will go back in a minute. Thanks for the tip!!

Barbara Piper in Kelowna , BC Canada 06/18/2009

Best: Hotel Siettmo Cielo in Sorrento
Why: Awesome views, quiet, not crowded, good breakfast, peaceful

Kristi Flax in Rose Hill, KS USA 06/17/2009

Best: Valentina in Orvieto
Why: Everyone in my group agreed that the apartment from Valentina in Orvieto was their favourite place of the trip to stay. Breakfast was not included but the apartment had loads of character, plenty of room, a washing machine, and a great location. We made our own breakfasts in the kitchen. I wish we would have stayed here for a week and made it our home base for exploring the region.

Hotel Sonya in Rome was situated conveniently and had the best breakfasts of anywhere we stayed. The accommodations were very nice as well.

Rick wasn’t kidding about Ulisse Deluxe Hostel in Sorrento. It was the most modern place we stayed and had the second best breakfasts we had. The only thing they didn’t have that Hotel Sonya did was hard-boiled eggs.

Manual’s Guest House in Monterosso was great for it’s view and it’s potential for relaxation. We would like to come back here and stay for a week doing nothing but relax, read books and drink his beer and wine. After visiting all the other towns in the Cinque Terre via the hike I am glad we stayed in Monterosso. Manual is the Italian “Old Man and the Sea” except he paints instead of writes. Breakfasts were not included but at the bottom of the hill you can get what you want.

If I needed only one reason to recommend Hotel al Fagiano in Padua that reason would be Alfred. He is sooo helpful that he practically knocks you down with his eagerness to provide information. I really enjoyed talking with him and watching him operate like a well-oiled machine. He knew what people wanted without them having to ask and his fingers danced over the keys of his computer keyboard when he was typing, and he did all this at the same time. We liked the wonderful rooms as well. The hotel reminded me of an M.C. Escher print of stairs going in all impossible directions.

Anna Marie of Katti House in Florence takes very good care of her properties and her guests. I was looking out our window at the street below when I noticed across the street other people doing the same, I felt like a local. The location was great too.

We stayed at Pensione Guerrato in Venice. The first thing we noticed when we arrived was the gentleman behind the desk was the boat driver in Rick’s video of Venice. His name is Peter and he is quite a character. I actually was able to spend some time talking with his partner and brother-in-law Robert about travel, politics, etc. They are such nice people and I enjoy the conversation the most about these trips. They were very helpful arranging a boat taxi to the airport for me. The rooms were great and being next to the Rialto Bridge is the best location I can think of. I would definitely stay here again.

All good, nothing bad with the accommodations. Thanks again Rick and staff for the wonderful trip.

Dave Schoneweis in Tulsa, OK USA 06/16/2009

Worst: Nardizzi
Why: We stayed at Nardizzi for four nights last week and didn’t like it. Others may have reasonable experiences there, but it didn’t meet our expectations, and I wouldn’t go back. Off the bat, I’ll say that the hotel was reasonably clean, and I’m from New York, so I wasn’t surprised or put off by the small room. But the accommodations were closer to motel than hotel, and the staff attitude ranged from unhelpful to outright unfriendly.

Nardizzi was the last of three hotels we stayed in Italy, so I’m taking into account the general Italian approach to service, which doesn’t necessarily include problem solving or a sense of timeliness in answering a question (I considered that cultural difference a good part of the trip.) Still, we mostly encountered friendly Italians--people who were really nice and seemed like they wanted to make a good connection with us.

At Nardizzi, the four desk clerks we dealt with were about as personable as McDonalds cashiers and didn’t seem interested in answering questions or solving problems. If they’d been friendly, that probably would have compensated for the details I found off-putting:

• Our shower was tiny, with a sliding-door opening that a person any bigger than my boyfriend (34-inch waist) would not have fit through. Literally, anyone larger would not have fit through the shower stall door. • The shower didn’t drain. The water pressure was quite good, but if you ran it any higher than low, the shower would flood quickly. • We discovered by experience that the hot water is turned off from approximately midnight until 7:45a. • The Internet service, which is available in the busy lobby only (where smoking is permitted), was on just intermittently. When we were using it one morning, the clerk suddenly announced that it was time to clean the area, and then he shut off the connection without warning. • You have to leave your key at the desk when you leave, so you’re forced to deal with the clerks every time you go out or in.

Again, other people may have decent experiences at Nardizzi. But based on things I’d read, I was expecting to find a hotel that I’d be pleased to come back to every day, and that simply wasn’t the case.

Sarah in New York, NY USA 06/11/2009

Worst: Hotel Weber Ambassador Capri
Why: Unfortunately I ignored earlier bad reviews of this hotel and booked my room on the strength of the website. Upon arrival at the hotel, I was told I could not check in until 7:00PM. I need a nap and a shower and could not wait around for 4 hours, but they did not accomodate me. When I asked them if I could check out at 7:00PM on my last day to make up for this inconvenience they said that would simply not be possible. I also found the hotel to be dirty and the rooms smelled of mildew. Never again would I stay here.

Paul Scandroglio in Toronto, canada 06/11/2009

Best: Hotel Villa Margherita Levanto
Why: A nice hotel, good service, reasonable price. We had a great stay at Villa Margherita and we recommend this hotel to friends that visit this lovly area of Italy. We look forward to visit the hotel if we get the opportunity.

George in Levy, NY USA 06/11/2009

Worst: Villa Kinzica
Why: I had a reservation that I was unable to keep, though I would be there one day later. They claimed they had no rooms available, though online sites (expedia, venere) showed availability. They seemed to think it was better for them to charge the full price cancellation fee than to actually provide a room. The person I spoke with claimed that the manager wasn't there, but his collegue said that he was the manager. It's clear that they don't hold the truth in high esteem, as they gave me the runaround. Customer service is LAST on their list.

John B in Vienna, VA USA 06/03/2009

Best: Hotel Europa in Verona
Why: These people were nice, fully featured, affordable, flexible and a very easy transition into Italian accomodations. They let us practice our Italian without making fun.

Worst: Casa Del Pellegrino in Padua
Why: Staff was nice, helpful. Rooms were clean, cheap. Toilette down the hall was ok but OMG... The place was the noisiest most obnoxious location. People were partying outside in the streets until 3am... in front of a church no less... not to mention the bells at all hours

Duane Henderson in Chico, CA USA 05/31/2009

Best: hotel corso in Orvieto and albergho diane in Lucca
Why: Location, location, location, plus the fact that you didn't mention the Puccini adoration in Lucca, which resulted in a plendid evening concert at San Giovanni's

Worst: Rome's Hotel Picasso or Caravaggio; both you didn't recommend or even mentioned, but they were simply lousy.
Why: Too small a room, no luggage space or cabinets for clothes, bed working bathroom equipment etc.etc.

Henny van Dijk in Houston, TX USA 05/31/2009

Best: Genius Loci Inn, Bevagna
Why: Not in your book, but this is THE place. You have to put this inn in your itinerary. Beautiful and affordable renovated farmhouse in the countryside with luxurious rooms and and a wonderful pool overlooking the Umbrian grapevines, lemon and olive trees. Assisi is a short drive away. Check out their website at www.geniuslociumbria.com

Nick MA USA 05/27/2009

Best: Egi's Rooms
Why: I too stayed in the room that was given "worst" by Susan Canada 05/02/2009. It is not the room that Egi advertises on his website. However we were informed of that when inquired about reservations. We arrived on May 1st. Which is Labor day. (Note to self, do not arrive on Labor Day)The room was clean and the bathroom was nice. The room does face the main street which is very noisy. But the convenience of walking out our door and having everything within a 50 foot walk was nice. We just turned on the fan for white noise. The bed is a fold out couch. However it does not have the bar in the back like so many fold out couches do. We had many conversations with Egi and found him to be charming. My only complaint is that we were charged the same rate for the inferior room as he charges for the beautiful rooms that he advertises. However we did arrive on Labor Day. And felt lucky to have a room. I LOVED Vernazza and all of Cinque Terre. No museums or other tourist stuff. Just great hiking, great pesto and warm and generous people.

Shannon in Freeman, MN USA 05/27/2009

Best: Hotel Olivedo
Why: We spent 6 nights in Verenna at Hotel Olivedo. Laura our hostess is very professional. The rooms were clean and charming. Despite the fact that the hotel is right next to two boat landings with many people coming and going.(Fun to watch while having a lemon soda on her patio)Nobody came in and out without her knowledge. Felt very safe. After the third day Laura became very friendly with us and gave us some complimentary drinks and internet. When we checked out our rate had been reduced for the extended stay. Her staff is exceptional. I highly recommend her ravioli. We are not the see all the museums and travel to every city type people. We call ourselves squatters. Verenna and Hotel Olivedo were the perfect place to sit, drink wine and watch the people go by. We had no troubles with being ripped off or harassed. The people of Verenna were fantastic! It was the best vacation I have ever been on and can not wait to return

Shannon in Freeman, MN USA 05/27/2009

Best:
Why: We used hotel points to stay at the Marriott Central Park Hotel in Rome. A very nice hotel with free shuttle service avery hour to center of town. In Milan we again used frequent user points to stay at the Holiday Inn Garibaldi. A nice hotel but not too centerally located. But there was a bus right out side the front door that took us into town. Using our points makes the trip more affordable. He travels for business often so we have those available to us.

Janice Humphrey in Colorado Springs, CO USA 05/26/2009

Best: HotelAntiche Mura (Sorrento)
Why: Very classy hotel, seems English friendly. Used the 15% discount w/ cash and no problems. Would come here again and would suggest this hotel to others.

Michael McGirr in Crete, IL USA 05/26/2009

Worst: Hotel Nardizzi-Americana-Rome
Why: One of the reasons I booked this hotel was because of the mention of the lift in your book, even tho the hotel was on the 5th floor. My husband has had a knee replaced and has great difficulty with stairs. We arrived at the hotel, and the lift was not working. I hiked up the 5 flights to tell them, they fixed the lift, and my husband came up. We checked in, and the nice man at the desk showed us to our room which happened to be across the bridge into the next bldg and DOWN 4 flights of stairs. NO LIFT! Every time we came and went, even to breakfast, it was either up or down 4 flights. If we had known, we would not have booked that hotel. The hotel itself was convenient, clean, nice rooms, nice breakfast, I even recommended it to my daughter who was staying in Rome a week later. They enjoyed it, but they had a room on the reception level. You need to inform your readers about this problem. We were very unhappy about this problem. I would give the hotel very good marks. The fault is with the description in the book.

Barbara Shurr in Walnut Creek, Ca USA 05/17/2009

Best: Hotel Pasquale in Monterosso al Mare
Why: AMAZING views, fabulous service. We got a glass of sciacchetra when we checked in, just like how you said in your book. Rooms very extremely clean and modern...THICK towels and good air conditioning. Huge breakfast that even included eggs made to order. Yum. Hotel also had internet and beach towel rental, which they waivved the fees. Wow. When I go back to Cinque Terre, this is where I am staying again!

Gina in Los Angeles, CA USA 05/11/2009

Best: Hotel Mignon in Sorrento
Why: Internet! Nice room. Friendly staff. Good location. They need to work on the breakfast,though.

Worst: Hotel Nerva in Rome
Why: Rude, arrogant staff oozed with nastiness. Room was a walk in closet. Shower was a phone booth. Breakfast? Dried cold toast that comes pre-toasted in a plastic bag and a tiny OJ - don't dare ask for seconds. I cancelled my reservation for my return to Rome heading homeand they charged me for the night, anyway. Bad, bad people.

Thomas Chamberlin in Salem, OR USA 05/07/2009

Best: Casa Cosmo in Venice
Why: The room was clean and modern, and although not the least expensive place we stayed in Italy, Davide and his family were helpful and kind, including selling cokes and orange juice in the lobby.

Worst: Cross Pollinate referral in Florence
Why: While we had reserved 7 months in advance and confirmed within three weeks, when we arrived at Alice Guesthouse no one was there. When someone showed up they said they had no room for us and moved us to another hotel. On the other hand, L'Altra Luna, a Cross Polinate

Lorraine New in Troy, MI USA 05/05/2009

Worst: Egi Rooms
Why: Egi promotes (often) that he is in the Rick Steves book, but he is using this "reputation" to also sell accomodations that are not part of his regular rooms and not being upfront about it. We were given a room with a hideabed and the room seemed to be someones vacated home. Personal pictures were tossed into the drawers and dusty dried out flowers were on the table. Only one bath towel was provided and it was questionable if it was clean. Perhaps his regular rooms are ok (although I've read some reviews to the contrary). I would stay away either way.

Susan Canada 05/02/2009

Best: Hotel Centrale, Florence
Why: Spacious rooms, great location, friendly, helpful staff. Good room rates.

ben caputo in arlington heights, il USA 04/30/2009

Best: Romantica Pucci
Why: Explained above. I also really liked the Conventos and seminarios we stayed in because of the great value.

Jeanette Rollinger in Visalia, CA USA 04/27/2009

Best: Camere Anna Lisa Martini
Why: It was a lovely place and the Martinis were kind and helpful. Mama Martini was very enthusiastic and fed us lots of chocolate.

Erica Blankenbehler in San Jose, CA USA 04/19/2009

Best: Loved Hotel Davanzanti in Florence, Italy
Why: The location was fabulous. The hotelier, Fabrizio was so helpful. The room was lovely and the breakfast delish. They also have a happy hour with wine a h'ors d'oerves very lovely. Would recommend this hotel to anyone traveling to Florence.

Worst: Hotel Duomo in Siena, Italy
Why: We wee hardly welcomed when we got to the hotel to check in. They could not be bothered with us. Also the room was depressing. The walls were dirty the bathroom was a stepup like on a ship. The location was good and the breakfast was good. Would not recommend this hotel. It felt like a Hotel 6 in crappy condition.

Ellen in Anaheim, ca USA 04/11/2009

Best: Residenza Il Villino in Florence
Why: Sergio was so nice and did everything to make our stay pleasant. The room was great and in a nice neighborhood away from the tourist scene. We really felt like we were in Italy.

Kyla Miller in Ruckersville, VA USA 04/11/2009

Best: Albergo Barbara, Vernazza
Why: Lovely setting, nice private, all newly renovated (though not in-room) bathroom. Beautifully cleaned and pleasantly decorated room. And, yes, the view is small but still marvelous.

We selected accommodations for 5 locations (The Beehive in Rome, Casa Rabatti in Florence, Locanda Silva in Venice, Albergo Barbara in Vernazza and Ostello la Cordato in Milan) from the cheapest section. I was a little leery of picking the low-cost places but we were completely amazed at how nice they ALL were. Clean, well-run, private, QUIET, etc. etc.

Pat Millar in Dartmouth, NS Canada 04/08/2009

Best: Hotel La Bougainville in Positano
Why: Room was lovely! The owner was very attentive and helpful.

Suzy Pare in Cleveland, OH USA 04/04/2009

Best: Palazzo Masi in Siena
Why: Great location, old restored building, excellent plumbing, modern bathroom, clean. Wonderful hostess: Daniela gave us so much help and really went above and beyond.

Janice Cain in Pleasanton, CA USA 04/02/2009

Best: Hotel Centrale in Bellagio, Italy
Why: Giacomo Berelli, the owner, was very nice and very helpful. We had a romantic room on the 3rd floor, with a wood beamed ceiling, antiques, comfortable bed and a view of the snow-capped mountains and Lake Como. Memorable!!

Gale in Melbourne Beach, FL USA 03/29/2009

Best: Hotel Accademia in Florence, Hotel Corso in Orvieto, and Hotel Opera Roma in Rome
Why: Hotel Accademia in Florence was a nice experience. Enjoyed the pink marvel floors and beautiful paintings, murals, and statues that decorate the hotel interior and the breakfast was great. Hotel Corso in Orvieto was delightful too. Close to the funicular, Duomo, and Parco delle Grotte. The hotel Sonya/Opera Roma in Rome is the finest hotel we have ever stayed in. Clean, beautiful bedrooms and bathrooms, awesome breakfast, and friendly, helpful staff. This was the second time we stayed here. The experience just gets better and better. The way they treat you at Sonya/Opera Roma just makes you want to return to Rome again and again.

Furnacefighter in Philadelphia, PA USA 03/20/2009

Best: Residenza IL Villino, Florence
Why: Fabulous location, hosts, accommodations, breakfast, totally enjoyable!! We will definitely go back!

Patti Koupal in Rapid City, SD USA 03/19/2009

Best: Marcella in Florence
Why: My parents loved their authentic Italian, affordable stay with this affable, caring woman. She had framed your page on her!

Mary Beth Morrissey in Lugano, Switzerland 03/06/2009

Best: Locanda Al Leon, Venice
Why: Great location, friendly, very helpful, good-English-speaking owners, breakfast above average: real cappucino and yogurt plus usual "continental" stuff. The owner looked up time schedules for us for the Alilaguna to the airport, recommended a good place to eat, great people!

Worst: Albergo Sileo, rome
Why: We had no hot water in the shower! When no hot water came, I noticed the hot water tank high on the wall was unplugged. We were leaving for home early that morning, so no time to let it warm up. Travelled for 24 hours without a shower, but washed hair in sink as there was hot water there. Also, the water came out around the shower fittings, very little out of the spray head and the drain screen was missing. They generously (we thought) said since we were leaving so early, they would provide breakfast in the room. For 5 euros, we got warm apricot juice, packaged croissant and toast and jam. No coffee!

Marianne LeSage in Spokane, WA USA 02/12/2009

Best: Villa Margherita B&B Levanto/Cinque Terra
Why: Lovely grounds clean spacious room with a very excellent breakfast. Pleasant friendly family run B&B,an easy walk to town and train to the Cinque Terra. We were very happy with this B&B

HarLyn and Jerry Mlynek in Colorado Springs, Co USA 02/09/2009

Best: Hotel Casci in Florence
Why: Wonderful people as our hosts. Great location. Family room was very nice. Breakfast was great. Very reasonable. Recommend it. Thanks Rick.

Worst: Hotel Valley in Milan
Why: I still cannot believe this is in Ricks book. Maybe it was the room we had. Absolute worst hotel in 10 years of going with the family to Europe always listening to Rick. So 1 out of 100 is not bad Rick, but you might want to look into this.

Pat Oliver in Palos Park, IL USA 01/28/2009

Best: Residenza il Villino, Florence
Why: It was exactly as described in the guidebook; friendly and offers the feeling of staying in a Florentine villa, in town. It is quiet, very clean and comfortable and Sergio and his family are extremely helpful and friendly. It is a block from the Accademia, two from the Duomo and a short walk to the Uffizi and grand sights. I could not recommend this one more. Also well priced with the Rick Steves/cash discount.

Worst: Ca" San Trovaso, Venice
Why: The staff was not rude but definitely not friendly. Our bed was only a box spring without a mattress. Breakfast is a spartan croissant, bun and cup of tea or coffee. Since they deliver it to your room you are on their schedule and, for us, it did not fit our schedule. The room was clean.

Scott in Wainess, CA USA 01/21/2009

Best: Katti House
Why: Because of a transit strike, we were waylaid overnight in Florence. We checked the 2009 guidebook (and I am VERY glad to have picked up the newest addition) and found the new listing for Katti House. The rooms were lovely, and the price was great. The hospitality I experienced there from Maria and Francesco was what sold the place for me... and we stayed 4 nights instead of one. Maria was right there to offer suggestions for good restaurants, umbrellas when it rained,and breakfast in the room. They clearly love what they do, and it shows: the accommodations were clean and beautiful, and the hospitality was excellent. Maria was very patient with my limited Italian, and always took the time to chat with me warmly as we came and went.

The location was very good - a short walk to the train station, major sites, and markets. There is a laundromat and internet cafe right across the street.

Maria and Francesco made an unexpected part of part of our trip the best part of the trip. I can't thank them enough.

Michelle in Minneapolis, MN USA 01/12/2009

Best: Antonio and Ingrid Fenelli Camere - Vernazza
Why: Clean - Crisp, comfortable, spotless room. The location was perfect for our coastal hike. The accomodations were simply a room, with a full bath. No food or beverage services available. But you will not find cleanliness topped by any other accommodations.

Colleen and Tony in Cleveland, OH USA 01/04/2009

Best: Edi's in Riomaggiore followed by Hotel La Villeggiatura in Venice
Why: Edi provided the most fantastic room, virtually new, balcony overlooking the town and mountain, a/c that actually worked and the least expensive in our 10 day trip (100 Euro/nt) and Edi was quite helpful. We had to reduce our planned 2 day to one due to a planned train strike. I expected to pay for both days but without asking he only charged us for one. The Hotel La Villeggiatura in Venice (www.lavilleggiatura.it) is not in any tourbook but owner Francesca Adilardi and staff were some of the most helpful and friendly we encountered in Italy. Very nice accommodations and good value at 150 Euro in early July 2008.

Gary Reichanadter in Mooresville, In USA 01/01/2009