Taormina is the number one place I have been on holidays and Maria's apartment completes the experience.
I would recommend using this place as it is close to cable car, the city and the bus stop which is quite easy to catch straight from Catania Airport.
There a lot of options when staying at Maria's house as it is about a 5 'min walk from the city centre. I would recommend visiting Margana's for cocktails if you are looking for a really classy place to sit and relax after spending the day at the beach. Also try D'amore for some Italian pastries. The only thing I would say is the like others the traffic noise can get quite loud but this didn't effect our stay although if you are light sleeper this may be an issue. The view is just like the pictures and you'll have to pinch yourself when your standing on the balcony overlooking the isle of Bella.