convent of the Dominican nuns

The apartment was exactly as described. It was located in the heart of Taormina near all of the shops and restaurants. Our host Ann, met us at the apartment and explained everything we needed to know and made sure we had everything we needed. The unit was clean and spacious with soaring ceilings at least 12 feet tall. The floor plan was open and there was a balcony with a sea and town view from every room. We also had access to the penthouse patio above the apartment which had panoramic views including, the sea, hills, the town below, and mount Etna. This place was truly a gem, and was our favorite of the 4 accommodations that we booked in our Italy and Sicily vacation. You do not need a car if you stay here. I highly recommend this property if you choose to visit Taormina.

All was greatYou just need ear plugs for the late nite diners under the windows. That’s why I gave the stay a 4.

The property is very comfortable and in the perfect location near the main street. The views from the rooftop terrace are spectacular. Our main issue with the property was that it badly needs maintenance. The main bedroom air conditioner does not cool, the hot water in the ensuite cuts out, and the kitchen cupboards are falling apart. There are two wall ovens in the kitchen: one does not work and the other gets so hot that you can't touch the dials and they are partly brown from the heat. Light switches on the rooftop deck are taped up so it is dark at the entrance and the light in the laundry was not working when we were there. The television was also not working except for the internet accessible channels which are mostly subscription.

We stayed at this apartment for 9 nights in mid-April. I struggled to choose a star rating because this apartment has so many positives, but the one negative is a very big negative. First, the positives. As other reviewers have mentioned, the location is ideal, just steps from the main pedestrian street Corso Umberto. The grocery store is within easy walking distance. The apartment itself is spacious, clean, and comfortable, and the roof deck and views are spectacular. The wifi was very reliable and the kitchen was functional and well stocked. The representative who greeted us, Ann England, was prompt, pleasant, efficient, and responsive. The one major negative is the noise that comes from the outdoor seating of the bars/restaurants that are located directly below the bedroom windows. Before booking I had read the reviews that mentioned some restaurant noise, but I didn’t fully comprehend how loud this noise would be and how late into the night it would continue. Even with the windows and shutters closed, it sounded like the people were right in the room with us—loud laughter, conversation, singing, and amplified guitar music. The noise continued until 4:00 or 5:00 am. We tried sleeping with ear plugs, which did not help all that much. We are a mature couple and were traveling with an elderly couple, so we were back in the apartment fairly early each night. This may not be as much of an issue for those who tend to stay out late into the night. If you are of the “if you can’t beat them, join them” variety, then this apartment is ideal. Otherwise, bring as much noise cancelling technology as possible. So, 5 stars for the apartment itself, but can only give it a 3 overall because of the sleepless nights due to the noise.