We did not stay in the hotels recommended by the conference organizers, but in one we found ourselves on the Internet. Privilege was a small hotel (20 rooms), with elegant furnishings and charming family atmosphere. The hotel building dates back to the 18th century and is on the right bank of the Arno River, opposite the hill of Michelangelo Square. It is a three-star hotel, but felt and looked more like a four! Barbara and Emanuele Toccafondi were always cordial and helpful and they made sure our stay was a most pleasant one!
Rooms were comfortable, with windows facing the river, but insulation was good, so outside noises could not be heard inside. Rooms offered the comfort of air-conditioning and they also had mini-bar, TV with satellite, and private bathroom with shower. Guests were also given slippers to walk around in and towels were large and luxurious.
Looking out the window one morning, I saw cars from Belgium, the Netherlands, and France parked outside, reflecting how international the city is. In addition to participants in the conference, I saw many tourists during our stay, mainly Americans, Japanese, and Spanish, although I also heard a young girl speaking Portuguese!
The hotel's buffet breakfast was a delight, with fresh fruit, yoghurt, an assortment of breads and pastries, ham & cheese, eggs and different types of cereals. The hotel also had an outside garden and it was most pleasant to sit out there in the shade, surrounded by singing birds, plants, and flowers! We enjoyed a gin and tonic there one afternoon and they even gave us a huge bowl of peanuts to munch on!
A short walk away from the hotel was Ponte Vecchio and one could also find Florence’s many places of interest, including monuments, principal museums, shops and restaurants only a short walking distance away.
Ours was only a short stay, but it was our privilege to have stayed in that charming little hotel! www.hotelprivilege.it is their web address.
From journal Fantastic Few Days in Florence!