Paola is a charming and welcoming hostess, and we loved the informal family atmosphere. The rooms are big and nice, the shared spaces include a full kitchen, a pleasant terrace overlooking the sea and even a rooftop area for sunbathing. There are several good inexpensive restaurants really close and plenty of cafes and bars. Be advised that the apartment is in between the two main one-way streets along the beach in Giardini-Naxos, so there is a lot of traffic. Parking is also a challenge if you are driving and staying for more than one day- you have to pay for street parking (Paola helped us find a spot on the street). It was great to be able to get up early and make my own coffee, and Paola provides cereal and rolls and juice and yoghurt. If you, like me, want a less than authentic Italian breakfast with some protein, you could purchase and prepare it yourself! The apartment is about 15 minutes drive from the Porto Catania parking lot in Taormina, and there are frequent busses.