Over the years, we have gathered quite some experience with holiday homes but rarely lived in one which delivers what was promised. Giovanna and Federico, however, surpass all expectations. We could feel that they both just love to have guests, enjoy meeting people, and show a real interest in their well-being.
Their welcoming and considered attitude showed wherever we looked in the flat which was equipped with everything we needed (including more toys and games than our kids could wish for). Even if the flat had been wanting for anything, I am sure Giovanna and Federico would have found a quick way to find a practical solution. The equipment has been selected with care and we found it to be astonishingly clean and well-maintained (we loved the beds and especially the fragrant shower gel). The ancient, thick stone walls and high rooms of the palazzo kept just about the right cool environment for refreshing sleep and daytime rest despite the 30°C outside temperature. The view into the beautiful garden during outside breakfast gave us additional peace and brought about a perfect start into our day.
Giovanna and Federico provided a comprehensive digital information package with everything we needed to know when new at a place (where to get groceries, bread, what sites to see, where to park in Bergamo, restaurants, walks, etc including directions). We found very helpful little tags on the cabinets, which made it easy to find things, and explanatory notes on how to deal with waste (the things we always forget to ask). Giovanna and Federico always had time to help us find things about the town, gave us directions to places of interest for us and were always available for a little friendly chat. We never had the feeling to intrude or disturb but always felt welcome. Both speak English very well—a good feature since our Italian is rather rusty.
When we came we were excited about the house and garden—when we left we were still excited about the house and garden and, in addition, about having met Giovanna and Federico (and, in fact, all the family including the dogs).
Thanks for ever so much for hosting us and for the wonderful days we could spend at your palazzo.