Cala dell'Acquaviva

The location was perfect in my opinion. On the main street right near the bridge to the old town. The old town is too inconvenient and touristy and crowded for an extended stay (I was there for a week), so I was glad to be just outside of it. The hotel could be reached by taxi or tour van and there are many shops and restaurants along this stretch. The hotel has a modern appearance and some comfortable chairs out front, like a front porch, which is a nice touch. On the other hand, there were certain negatives. Although the reception staff was always helpful and cheerful, the rest of the staff was much less so. The woman at breakfast seemed to loom judgingly as I selected my food, as though it were coming out of her salary, and the room cleaners were always a bit annoyed. They were also not very efficient and although they came in the room almost every day, they worked haphazardly. The elevator broke down after 3 or 4 days and was still broken when I left. The shower was cheap plastic and narrower than necessary. The TV only sometimes worked and then very badly.

Underground car park a major plus if you have a car.

I was so grateful to arrive at the beautiful, antique stone San Giuseppe Demora in Otranto. The front desk ladies greeted us and directed us to the elevator and our rooms that were ready early - even in high season. The rooms were comfortable, quiet, and so refreshing with starched cotton sheets and excellent air conditioning. The shower was easy to access (important consideration) for one of my friends who had knee issues. Loved the mint and lemon water that refreshed us as we returned from touring the castle area- a ten minute walk from the hotel. We indulged in the spa. The facial was so worth it as it included massage of legs, feet, arms and neck. We paid for breakfast and it offered a unique sampling of protein and carbs, and gluten-free items. There was never any rush to leave and we also relaxed with aperitif right there later in the afternoon. Loved the place and will return.