My family and I recently stayed at “The Romantic Novella” in Florence, and it was the low point of our vacation. We had high hopes for a cozy stay, but instead found a low-rent experience.
From the start, a strong sewer gas smell in the entryway was alarming. The keys for both the main entry and apartment door were frustratingly unreliable. The sleeping arrangements were particularly deceptive: the photos made the beds look like queen-sized, but they were actually two cots pushed together, providing little comfort. The thin walls allowed us to hear everything from neighbors arguing to a barking dog. We had to open the windows for air circulation, which let in mosquitoes that left my son covered in bites.
To add to our woes, we found visible water damage in the living room, with staining and falling plaster. Amenities were scarce: just one set of towels per person for a four-night stay, with no complimentary water or coffee. A recurring noise from the closet disrupted our sleep, and a glaring hallway light shone directly into our bedroom.
After just two nights, we had to find new accommodations for the last days of our trip. The Romantic Novella was a significant disappointment, and I hope this feedback prompts management to make necessary improvements. Save yourself the trouble—look elsewhere when booking your stay in Florence.
