Just returned from a honeymoon in Europe with accomodations thanks to Starwood and thought I might give anyone who's interested a quick review of the hotels...

On a quick side note, I think that the new free Friday's is o.k., but the leisure certs if they have the normal restrictions will I agree with most, be worthless....here's hoping that they don't...regardless, I'm still with Starwood.


Excelsior Rome: Beautiful large room with balcony facing south overlooking the U.S. Embassy. This hotel is in a great location on the Via Veneto. The room had all that you would expect from a former luxury collection hotel...silk, fabric on the walls instead of wallpaper, etc. etc.. The staff was a little arrogant in my opinion, but honestly, great room for free so I would give it high marks. Next time, I would try the Grand (just renovated) since I don't think there was anything so special about the Excelsior...besides, the Grand is not too far away and in an equally attractive location.

Excelsior Florence: I enjoyed the location about 4 blocks away from the city center. I don't mind walking, and it kept the area much quieter than other hotels that I saw. The room overlooked a piazza that faced the Grand hotel. The room was ample size with a huge bathroom! Once again, same silk, fabrics, etc.. The staff was outstanding at this hotel. Very friendly, great food in the restaurant (We ate their once when we were beat from a day of touring Tuscany) and I would say better than it's counterpart in Rome. I did go to the Grand across the square to use their internet service and thought that it would be a great place to stay as well. Toss up for next time, but can't go wrong with either.

Gritti Palace: WOW!!! One more time... WOW!! Upgraded to a huge suite overlooking the Grand Canal. If you look at the picture on the website, it is right on the front in the middle and takes up the middle 4 windows with large balcony. That alone made the stay. The staff was outstanding. This is definitely the type of hotel where guests want for nothing. Everyone was friendly, responsive, offering advice on where to go, etc.. My favorite hotel I have ever stayed in. If you get the chance....GO!!!

I realize this is a long message, so if anyone is interested in more details or going to Italy soon, drop me a line and I'll gladly answer any questions that I can.

So Long,
Jbird