I've stayed here multiple times over the past 7-8 years (and will be there next week), and reviewing this thread, there are quite a few remarks recently noting some level of displeasure about this property. It HAS changed substantially in recent years - both for good and bad.

1. Yes, the "legendary concierge" is no longer there. He retired about a year and a half ago. A loss.

2. The rooms are not all that big. They used to be, but the hotel was remodelled a few years ago, and most of the monster (corner) suites were chopped up to make 2 rooms out of one suite. I think, but am not sure, that even some of the regular rooms were divided, as last time I stayed (a year ago,) I was "upgraded" to a junior suite which was smaller than the standard rooms I had stayed in before. The remodel, however, updated the rooms and bathroooms. Previously, the hotel was a very faded and tired grand dame (but still with a few virtues) and now the hotel is more modern / international but without nearly as much character.

3. Despite the lack a of club lounge and amentites that some people expect, this is still a lovely hotel in a coveted location with killer views of the bay and Vesuvius - and the spectacular geography is definitely one of the draws for the region. The central city, National Archaeological Museum, Duomo, prime shopping, Royal Palace, San Carlo, Galleria Umberto and the waterfront are all in very easy walking distance. There are numerous restaurants in close proximity along with a grocery store and a nice wine store (Italian, heavily Campanian of course) a block or so away. Remember, this is Naples, not Rome or Milan - and in keeping with that fact, the room rates here tend to be consideraby less (and often include breakfast) than in those other 2 cities. (It IS an expensive reward destination and not very good value at 20K points per night as it is favored by many visitors and is frequently sold out) If you're brave enough to drive, the hotel even has parking for a rather modest (again compare to Rome, Milan) 25 Euros a night in a covered garage.

I ceratinly wouldn't consider this hotel a destination in itself, but it is one of the best in town. Remember to keep things in perspective - this is Napoli, not Rome, Milan or Venice and perhaps not even really Italia!