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Dear Jessica,
The people of the region were charming and friendly, the countryside was beautiful, and our apartment was fabulous. We'll be recommending the accommodations to any of our friends who express an interest in visiting the Puglia region. Grazie!
Kathleen T.
Hi Jessica,
I'm back from Monopoli, & we had a wonderful time, as we always do. The apt. was about what I expected although it would really be a tight fit for more than 4 people. The espresso machine was not working & we couldn't get the stove to work, although I'm sure the owners would come over in a minute had we contacted them. We just had very little use for it as we ate with my family (who live there) every night. The open mkt, the studente panificio across the street, the coffee bar up the street were all a delight. Of course the dual Piazza's are special, & to see all of the people gather every nite & enjoy each other's company while they enjoy a gelato or espresso...... well, that's really what the Italian culture is all about.
CIAO,
Vito F.
Dear Ghia,
Our trip was wonderful, everything we expected and more. The apartment in Monopoli was fine, although the town was disappointing. It really doesn't have much to offer, the new part is fairly unattractive and even the old town, although interesting because it is so old and has a castle with a fortress-like wall around it, also isn't particularly appealing or pretty.
But Monopoli is very well situated for all the places we wanted to visit, and we spent part or all of every day going to different towns. We loved Alberobello, with its charming and picturesque trulli, and Matera's caves, and Lecce, and we bought wonderful ceramics in Grottiglie, and found cousins and a great-aunt in Sant'Agata. And my husband and I really loved the beautiful countryside, and all the olive groves and orange and lemon trees.
As for the kids, they liked the Trulli and the caves -- beautiful countryside just doesn't do it for them! I really appreciated the list of restaurants you had sent us, and our favorites were Il Melangrano, which was everyone's absolute favorite -- what a gorgeous spot, delicious food, and impeccable service -- and we had very interesting and authentic Puglian food at Giasotto L'Arco (I don't know if I'm spelling that one right!) and Cibus, which was in a really beautiful old town called Ceglie Messapica and was in a 17th century stable. Also the Puglian wine -- everywhere we went -- was fantastic.
Also, the car rental went very well and all your driving information was very helpful. Everything was great, and we really appreciated your help in arranging it all, and I would definitely recommend you guys to anyone heading for Italy (in fact, I already have) and will surely use you again. In fact, we're already talking about going to Venice and Tuscany next year!
Thanks again,
Jil P.
Dear Ms Lambakis
Casa Bina e Nick was exactly as advertised. The owner and his family were a delight to deal with. When an electrical storm caused a problem with the hot water system they were on top of the situation immediately.
I found Monopoli a delightful city, clean,safe and welcoming, without a hint of the trashy tourist development which mars much of the rest of the Adriatic coast. For the non Italian speaking visitors, I would recommend arranging for a day with a knowledgeable, local, guide. There is a tremendous amount of history to be explored in the old city which is not readily accessible to a non Italian speaker. Also, the countryside outside the city is beautiful and well worth exploring. The ancient, gnarled olive trees outside the city were referred to by a local as our monuments.
The coffee shop right down the street from the apartment, with a sign, recommended by the professore, has excellent coffee, good service and some English spoken. All in all, I was very pleased with Casa Bina e Nick and with Monopoli.
Barbara B.