The Host:
Despite a last minute attempt, Francesco was very responsive and accepted our request to book. Upon confirmation, he sent us information about Taranto.
Unfortunately, we have no chance to meet him in person instead he sent us Mrs. Ada to show us the apartment and deliver the keys.
During our stay, Francesco was very prompt in responding to our request.
Tips from Francesco:
We want to visit a local morning market, he recommended us Fadini Market, via Principe Amedeo 241 (appx 10mins walk from the apartment). Wonderful atmosphere, diverse vegetables, fruits, seafood, meat, cheese, ham etc on sale.
The Apartment & neighborhood
The apartment was fully equipped including coffee, olive oil etc. Wifi was very strong.
It is located in a quiet part of the city, 2 mins walk to the Pedestrian Mall/Shopping. The neighbors in this apartment really gives one the authentic local feel i.e Elderly ladies sticking out from their window chatting, neighbor's pet bird chirping, the neighbor above us trying his amateur hand at drilling...love it!
Taranto
We find this place so quaint and clean. There are lovely boulevards by the sea, walking distant between the new and old city and historic sites to visit.
Besides Fadine market, we chanced upon a market selling seafood just across the bridge (on the right in the public car park). It is an eye opener for us. People busy slicing the sea urchins, cleaning fishes, huge eels on sale etc.
Food
Breakfast: Our daily fix at Cafe 84, Via Anfiteatro, 199/201. The pastries and coffee is awesome.
Dinner
Taranto is also known for seafood esp mussels. We found a good seafood restaurant, Risto Fratelli Pesce, piazza sant'Eligio 12, in old city. We dined twice there.
Taranto and Francesco's place definitely a place to be and to be back!