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Dear Kristin,
Hi and thanks and for the e-mail.
The trip was really nice. You couldn't beat the weather, 35-38 c the entire time. We did everything that we had set out to do plus a little more.
The accommodations were all very nice. All the descriptions were accurate and for the most part we were very satisfied. There were a couple of things that were somewhat disappointing and one was the hotel in Rome. The Hotel Alexandra itself was very nice and the location was excellent. However, one of the women that works the front reception desk was in my opinion extremely snooty and really has no business being in a job that requires her to deal with paying customers. We never had to complain about anything so there was no reason for the attitude but none the less it was there. I probably would not go back because of her.
Hotel Cadenabbia was wonderful. The location and price were perfect. The evening ambience was unforgettable and I believe my husband and I will go back. Perhaps as soon as next year. Shopping in Fox Town across into Switzerland is highly recommended.
Florence was also very nice. I was very disappointed in all the graffiti and that the youth don't really seem to appreciate what they have.
Villa Odino was exceptional. The villa was beautiful and quiet. The pool a Godsend! Breakfasts were astounding...so much so that my 19 and 17 year old boys were up nice and early so they wouldn't miss it.
We took the train to Venice and it was not only very quick it was also very, very economical. Upon arrival in Venice, we needed to exchange some American Express travelers cheques...that were already in Euros. Here is where the trip took a little bit of a wrong turn. As it was Saturday and the banks were closed, we used the exchange services at the train station. BIG MISTAKE. They charged us 50 Euros in order to exchange 300 euros. People at our hotel (from Belgium) said that it was extortion. It left a very bad taste in my mouth and after the beggars (standard fare in Italy) and everyone hustling to get you into their restaurant, the exchanging of money was pretty much the last straw.
Not to sound too negative, the highlight really was Lake Como and we will not hesitate to return. Thanks for your assistance as I know we did not give you much notice before we left.
Regards,
Peggy P.
Initaly.com was awesome - they helped me plan and book my trip to Italy and were right on with places and hotels. I would recommend anyone going to Italy to use initaly.com
Florence B&B - great place on a very quiet side street, but only a block from all the action. Loved the location and the staff. The staff at the hotel helped with dinner reservations, rent-a-car issues and international phone calls. Best of all the air conditioning was awesome. Florence was hot and the hotel was cool. The room was a good size and the bathroom, shower, etc... were all good.
Villa Cinque Terre - the best place in Cinque Terre, I am convinced. the staff was awesome, the room was great and the shower was unbelievable with 4 different jet systems to shower. The staff helped with train reservations and even booked it on their credit card and took cash from us. When we were leaving early in the morning, they packed us a breakfast to take that was second to none. there was enough food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I would certainly stay here again and tell anyone going to Cinque Terre, this is the place to stay.
Hotel Alexandra - Great hotel, great location, awesome large room with very cold a/c.....The staff was helpful getting us airport transportation, etc....Another good choice that I would stay at again.
Jeff R.