Few AirBnB stays, if any, can match my experience in Mariella’s home. Every wall, corner, and inch of the house is thoughtfully designed- from the kitchen sink to the vintage furniture to the art adorning the walls and surfaces to the dreamy bathtub in the bedroom. My experience of Palermo itself was undoubtedly enriched by staying in this house. Its location is ideal, especially when one needs a break from walking and from the summer heat.
I would be remiss to not also speak of the host herself, Mariella, who is incredible in every way- thoughtful, communicative, generous. She was always one text away whenever I had any questions and her knowledge of Palermo (and beyond) was exceptional and could only be matched by a well-researched guidebook. She had thoughtfully put together a sort of food guide to Palermo and I would carry it around in my bag for any whimsical food desire I had- gelato, pasta, fresh fish, a breathtaking view. When I arrived at the apartment, she had turned the AC on knowing that it was the middle of the day and it would be a delight to arrive to a cool home. Even the small details, like the coffee machine and the generous supply of coffee beans, made it inviting to spend the morning home working or reading. There were days where I took great joy in simply staying in the house, unwilling to part with this inviting space she has so thoughtfully designed.
I arrived at Mariella’s intending to stay only for a few nights and then quickly extended for over a week. And even then, I couldn’t leave and eventually switched to Mariella’s second AirBnB apartment (you should be warned that once you see this apartment you may find yourself unable to stay anywhere else) to spend the remainder of August.
I will be returning to Palermo, not just for Palermo's sake but also for the experience of staying at one of Mariella's homes as well.