Maria Pia's was the perfect place for a solo traveller. It was very close to several bus stops and the subway, and there were numerius shops to purchase day to day things like coffee, fruits and vegetable, and even lovely meat. Her location is also perfect to check out the clubs in Palermo - most within a short walk. However don't plan on trying to cook too many meals because there is only a single hotplate. It was perfect for morning coffee and I was able to make a single pot dinner for my niece and myself but wouldn't recommend more than that (but with the nearby restaurants who'd want to cook at home on vacation?). The pool is also small - great for a quick plunge after walking the city but not much more.