Positives- best view imaginable, with the largest patio to enjoy! Impeccable location!
I have stayed in tons of Airbnbs all over the world and this is the first experience where I didn’t feel “hosted” at all. I have read reviews that say “Giovanni” provided warm hospitable touches, food, olive oil, etc. Our host signed his interactions “La Baia di Ortigia.” There was nothing to welcome us but a bottle of water in fridge.
For 2 people 4 nights you only get one key card- which is also the only way you can turn on the power. You use it to enter the building and climb 3 sets of stairs and use again for the door. This was a huge drawback, as my partner hurt his back with the luggage and stayed inside while I went sightseeing. When I get home I have to phone him, and he has to hobble down all of those stairs to let me in. I asked if the host could provide another and the answer was no.
This apartment is bare-bones. A cutting board, no knife. We had to even buy a corkscrew! 😆 4 nights 3 rolls of toilet paper, no manual with any information on how to use TV or restaurant recommendations. (Just an old pamphlet showing features of a different property.) There are many rules siting fines for an unclean kitchen, etc. I asked where I find the paper towels, he said they are not included. The batteries in the TV remote were dead, so bought some along with paper towels, shampoo (only body gel provided). The shower head has been removed, just a hand faucet now. I was compensated for the batteries, (normally you have to leave 2 euros tax night at checkout, and he waived this which was nice.)
The A/C worked for the first couple of days, then died. Fortunately it was cool enough with the breeze. He said he would send someone to fix. He was quick to respond on all of my concerns, even if the answer was not the answer I wanted to hear. LOL. Parking is complicated. I recommend using the Talete garage, but don’t try to figure out the confusing machines. You’ll see an Easypark app you can scan and it is MUCH easier! We were charged 15 euros each way via taxi. 15 a night parking.
Beatiful location and view, just know you will be using the minimarts a lot!