We were greeted with great courtesy and friendliness by Paola's delightful sister Marta, who was clearly awaiting our arrival. She directed us to the absolutely safe, gated garage under the building and then welcomed us into the beautify, stylish apartment which was to be our very comfortable and blissfully quiet home for the next three nights. And 'home' is exactly where we were, treated by her, her charming parents, Roberto and Mariella, and Paola, our wonderful hostess, as if we were members of the family. We had had good experiences of accommodation in Sicily, and were used to helpful and friendly owners and staff and spotlessly clean rooms, but this was special. Every kindness was generously offered to us, including gifts of food and wine and excellent advice as to where to eat - Taverna del Pavone, where Roberto's most engaging cousin Marcello served us the very best pasta we have ever eaten.
As for the apartment itself, it was no surprise to learn that it was the creation of Roberto himself, an eminent architect, now much involved in the renovation of parts of Monreale's breath-taking, amazing Duomo. And into the very pleasing result of his talent Paola has put colour, comfort, every facility (including a washing machine - really useful!) and a fresh, comfortable and spacious environment. It was wonderful to walk up the hill after sight-seeing to this beautiful, restful place, with its fine views of Palermo and the coast on one side, and hills on the other, and sit on the huge veranda, sipping a glass of wine and simply enjoying being alive and in Monreale, but away from noise and traffic.
Paola and her family were often there to attend to our needs, but were never intrusive - we were both free and well looked after - perfect! Marta brought us a delicious breakfast, for a very small charge, when we wanted it, and, when we were leaving, drove our hired car out of the garage for me, a typically practical kindness, especially appreciated by me, one not as skilled as the Italians in such manoeuvres and nervous of the unfamiliarity of a manual gear shift and the possibility of damaging a hired car.
On our last morning, Paola and Marta drove us to the Duomo and Roberto arranged for us to go up on to the roof, a memorable experience. Saying goodbye was not easy.
We shall always be grateful for having been lucky enough to view the wonders of Monreale, and for having stayed in Paola Pupella's beautiful flat. Most of all, we were so lucky to meet so warm-hearted and interesting a family.