I stayed for a week when at a conference in Catania and Giovanni and Patricia's place is absolutely charming. It's decorated tastefully and with a lot of talent in their own artistic style, incorporating antique elements, and it just feels wonderful and quite grand inside, like staying in an old Sicilian mansion. The bedroom is extremely light and airy and the bed comfortable. The balcony with the little table and chairs, overgrown in jasmine, is magic and perfect for a drink. The flat looks just like in the pictures, only nicer! There is everything you need. The shower is very strong and there's plenty of hot water. There's a kettle and a small oven / toaster and a coffee maker and the complementary bowl of fruit and large bottle of water was particularly appreciated on my late-night arrival. Giovanni was extremely helpful, provided maps, directions and excellent recommendations for places to eat -- take his advise! There are also guide-books of Catania, Etna and Sicily. The area is right in the heart of the old city, between the cathedral and castle and next to the market. It's bustling and full of colour and character of Catania life. In the early evening it did feel a little edgy but this seems to be much of Catania's street-life in general and the street is wide, very well lit and very close to the cathedral square, which feels like a safe hub. The tiny alley which the flat is on felt completely safe and is wonderfully well-maintained and the flat is only a step off the main street. Coming back very late at night the streets were empty and lit and actually felt completely safe. It's nice that Giovanni and Patricia live next door and they are lovely people. I would stay again.