This is the third time I’ve stayed in Guiseppe’s and Blanca’s apartment and it was exactly as I expected; immaculate with everything in perfect working order. It really is a home away from home with a fridge freezer (useful freezer packs to take out with you to keep items cool during the day), full working oven, hob and kettle, with cooking pans and cutlery. The WiFi is spot on - I’ve never experienced anything less than a strong, perfect connection. Satellite tv, aircon and heating and a modern bathroom with shower, toilet and bidet. The double bed is comfortable; I’ve never had to use the pull out bed in the main living area, so can’t cimmrnt on that. There is a washing machine downstairs and a tiny balcony with washing line to air or dry your clothes (pegs included). There are plenty of basics, such as washing up liquid, loo roll etc.
All in all, everything is as it promises to be. Communication has always been fast and positive; I had to cancel a break earlier this year at short notice and Giuseppe was very understanding and immediately accepted my changed booking request.
The apartment is on a quiet square, 30 seconds away from Piazza Archimede and less than a 5 minute stroll from the fabulous Duomo. Paola runs a beautiful cafe underneath the apartment ‘Irma la Dolce’ which serves the biggest cappuccino I’ve found in the morning. For people travelling by public transport, it couldn’t be easier. If you’re landing at Catania airport, turn right after you come out of arrivals and the interbus stops right outside the airport. There is a ticket booth; a ticket to Siracusa is approx €6. The places that the interbus goes to are displayed on the front of the bus. You can also buy your ticket on the bus. When the interbus reaches Siracusa bus station (next to the train station), you can get a local taxi for approx €10 or wait for the little, local electric buses. The No. 1 bus costs €1 and takes a circular route onto Ortigia (runs approx every 20-30 minutes). For the apartment you need Piazza Archimede stop - don’t worry, the bus circles round the island and it appears as though you are going back onto the mainland, but then it drives through the middle of Ortigia. Piazza Archimede has a beautiful fountain in its centre, you can’t miss it. Then it’s less than 1 minute away down a little side street, Via Dei Montalto.
I’ve already booked the apartment again for next Spring, which will be my 4th stay. That in itself is the best recommendation and feedback I can give. Thank you again Giuseppe and Blanca!