Just returned and wanted to follow-up. Stayed at Hotel Casci in Florence for two nights. There were four of us and it was perfect, at 220 Euros/night. We had a pretty big room that was sort of two rooms, with 3 single beds and a double. Also TV and air condition (which I've learned isn't a given at cheaper places). There was a free internet computer available to guests and as was mentioned previously, the proprietors were great.

In Rome we were at the Fawlty Towers hostel, for about 90/night for a triple. This was your typical backpackers hostel. Good location a block from Termini. Friendly people, TV in common room, and free internet PC. No A/C so it was extremely hot. Someone told me it's the hottest in Italy its been since 1782. I could believe it. About 96 in the shade. The elevator was broken for the first 2 nights, and the hostel was on the 6th floor so that kinda sucked.

In Venice I was at Pensionne Guerrato which was a one star for 115/night for a double. Not too much to brag about, but a clean comfortable place (no A/C though), and a good shower. Decent location just over the Rialto Bridge.

[This message has been edited by FlyByMike (edited 06-19-2003).]