I had a very interesting 8 days with Franco and Melvin and am very glad to have met them both. They like to joke about what bad hosts they are; they are not bad hosts at all, but they are not hugely interested in 'hosting', so if you can take care of yourself and can keep a good sense of humour when things get chaotic or unusual, then you'll be fine. I came in January during unusually cold weather, and F+M kindly put me in a beautifully decorated room in the house so I would be warmer. If visiting in winter, I would bring a hot water bottle! Villafranca Sicula is a small sleepy town with not much to see, but the surrounding hills are beautiful - if you enjoy nature and long walks, the opportunities are endless and the dogs will gladly keep you company. If you are interested in plants, the garden is a treasure trove, and F+M kindly gave me some seeds to take back for my mother. Solo female travellers who are nervous about travelling alone should be aware that they will be alone in a male household. A home with kind people and great animals - I would visit again but in summer instead! Thank you Franco and Melvin!