Hotel Ipanema

Hotel Ipanema is a traditional style hotel. It has wooden panels in reception area with stained glass in, which looks lovely. The reception area has 2 seating areas with sofas and leads to the bar area with further sofa seating areas. These areas remained cool in the heat and WiFi reception found there. There was a lovely outside courtyard with bougainvillea surrounding, to enjoy morning coffee or evening drinks sitting out. The standard bed room was well decorated with fabric curtains, not much room around the bed but other larger rooms available. Large wardrobe with safe and bedside units with drawers. There is a small balcony with wrought iron railings and bistro table and chairs. The double doors to balcony had wooden louvre shutters, so keep closed in room to keep sun out in day. The room had air conditioning. The bathroom was fully tiled with shower, endless hot water, toilet, sink and bidet. All bathroom linen provided and changed daily if required. Most rooms have side view to sea. The dining experience I would describe as relaxed formal. Waiters wear suits/white jackets and evening meals served at your table. There was a choice of 4 starters normally a salad, pasta dish, risotto or soup. Starters are not portioned they are served at your table and large portions given. Usually a choice of 3 mains a fish, meat and vegetarian option ( although veg options limited). I had the fish dish every night- variations on sea bass, sea bream different cooking methods or sauces. All cooked perfectly. Desserts were fresh fruit salad, other fruits, crème caramel and some form of fruit gateaux type cake. Breakfasts were continental style help yourself from salad stuffs, cooked meats, cheese slices, various bread styles, croissants, fresh fruit, cereals, yogurts and boiled eggs. Help yourself from machine for hot drinks and they were good. The waiting staff were very attentive without being over fussy. Although formal you could have some banter with them. All other staff very professional and helpful. Would answer questions on where to go and book tickets on your behalf etc. there is a roof terrace with loungers and parasols and after this a further roof terrace up some stairs where the pool is. There are beaches close by but mainly pebbly and private. Lots of steps everywhere! There are public spaces or you can rent sunbeds. The next beach has Isla Bella island you can visit. There is a good bus service from bus station in town and plenty of companies offering excursions. The hotel is 5 minutes walk (no pavements) from the cable car which takes you up to the town of Taormina. Cable car runs until 1.30 am and every 15 mins. I bought a weekly pass around £70. There was plenty to see and explore in the town with its array of beautiful historic buildings and a wide variety of bars and restaurants. I would return to this hotel, it gave me options of beach area but also busy town a cable car ride away.