Italy
Rome, Italy
Hotel Damaso (September 2025) I’d definitely stay here again. The room was well-appointed and the staff was lovely, helpful, and responsive. Its location, in the Trastevere area, was perfect for exploring. In addition, there were many great restaurants nearby. https://www.hoteldamaso.it/
Hotel Romano (September 2025) Personally, I’d skip this one. It’s very close to the Coliseum, if this is important to you, but it’s located in a chaotic spot with lots of noise.
Bologna, Italy
Art Hotel Orologio (September 2025) This a great little gem overlooking the Piazza Maggiore, walkable to everything. Our room was comfortable, quiet, and attractive. Breakfast was plentiful, delicious, and served in a beautiful room. https://www.art-hotel-orologio.com/
Montepulciano, Italy
Appartamento il Buonumore (September 2025) I found this on booking.com, and loved it. Somewhat challenging to reach if you’re dragging a lot of luggage, it’s well worth it. You’ll find it on a lovely street, and it’s walkable to just about anywhere you’d like to go. https://www.facebook.com/appartamentoilbuonumore
Cremona, Italy
Appartamenti Sole Cremona (September 2025) This apartment is amazing, as is the host! Located on a quiet little street that still is close to restaurants, and especially to the Museo del Violino, the space is thoughtfully decorated and appointed. Ideally, this is must, if you visit Cremona. https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/appartamenti-sole-cremona.html?aid=304142&label=gen173nr-10CAEoggI46AdIM1gEaI4CiAEBmAEzuAEHyAEM2AED6AEB-AEBiAIBqAIBuAKKuOvGBsACAdICJDgyMTNjYzQ4LWY0M2YtNDk0Ny05ZWY4LTY2YTczMjg4OTQwNdgCAeACAQ&sid=d731795123bc94c79d12cbeae1120876&dist=0&group_adults=2&sb_price_type=total&type=total&
France
Lyon, France
Le Royal Hotel Lyon – MGallery Collection (September 2025) Not inexpensive, I don’t recommend this hotel. I spent the equivalent of $1650 for five nights (breakfast NOT included), and my “upgraded” room was a bit shabby, and cramped, even by European standards. The location in the 2nd arrondissement was okay, but there are more interesting spots to stay.
Paris, France
Hôtel Grand Cœur Latin (September 2025) Quite expensive, at $500/night, this was not a good value. When in Paris, I always prefer to stay in the Latin Quarter, which is why I chose it. I booked through booking.com, but wasn’t informed about the construction taking place on the small street. This made curb appeal lacking, and walking difficult.
Menton, France
Bellavista Vieux Menton (June 2024) Well worth the many, many steps to reach this apartment, because the view is spectacular. The host was so helpful, and the apartment was spotless, and near to many great restaurants, as well as gelaterias and boulangeries. This is a must-stay, as long as you are agile. https://www.bedroomvillas.com/property/bellavista-vieux-menton/BC-13752654