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In general, when searching a hotel, I consider the following variables:
1. Is it in a convenient location for all the sites of interest to us?;
2. If I am using public transport, is it easy to access?
3. If I am arriving by car, is there free parking?
4. Is it mid-range price-wise? (i.e under 150 Euros)
5. Is it clean? Does it have WiFi? Are the toilets modern? Is the area safe at night? Does the hotel offer a good breakfast? Does it have hundreds of great reviews? (If there are only a few reviews, I find that they are less reliable)
Based on the above criteria, I booked Hotel Pendini in Florence. Since we arrived by train to Santa Maria train station in Florence, I wanted something walking distance. However, I didn't want to be right next to the train station as it is known to be a less "desirable" area. The Pendini Hotel was only a ten minute walk from the central train station but in a wonderful area.
The walk with our suitcases was easy enough, although you need to manage the cobble stone streets. The hotel itself is a gem!!! The location is magnificent. So central that we walked everywhere... It is situated on a lovely piazza that is always crowded and buzzing with activity.
We had a room not facing the piazza so it was very quiet. We booked the standard double room. The bedroom and the bathroom were a little on the smallish side but cosy, comfortable and very clean!
We had a bathroom with a proper shower (i.e. not in a bath) which was great. The towels were fluffy and the shower had great water pressure. The bed itself was super comfortable. WiFi worked perfectly the entire four days that we were there.
The breakfast was plentiful and the varied. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful.
Overall a lovely hotel, great value for money, in an excellent location and very helpful staff. I highly recommend.