Receptionist was very welcoming and we were given a good brief on available facilities. Parking at the Hotel was at a premium, but we were lucky to get in the 6-space lot. ( Plenty of public parking 200m down the road)

Room was spacious with a balcony overlooking the bay. There was some internal noises from other guests- such as nearby bathrooms, and from stilleto heels on the floor above.

Hotel was fairly full so the restuarant was busy. However, there was sufficient choice of food from the Table de Hote menu, and service was incredibly efficient. The happy hour around 5pm was incredibly generous, and the courtyard was a nice place to relax.

There was a large roof top terrace with swimming pool. The pool looked a little cool for my purposes.

The hotel was only 200m from the cable car up to Taormina

The very friendly staff made our holiday. From Mario's exuberant character to the extremely helpful Ann Kristin & Christine on reception - nothing was too much trouble.

The hotel was very clean with the rooms cleaned to a very high standard daily. The food was absolutely delicious - even our 11 year old daughter was impressed - and the service was always excellent.

The only downside was the sound proofing in the rooms. With marble flooring in the corridors, we could hear every person pass our room.

Although there is no pavement outside the hotel, the cable car is not far. However, for those who like a challenge I would definitely recommend walking up the steps to Taormina - breathtaking views!

We had a lovely time at the Ipanema. The hotel itself is fairly standard, rooms are reasonable size and very clean. Food fine, good wine selection.

The thing that makes this hotel special is its staff. Mario in the bar is a real find, a great character who mixes a mean cocktail. Vincenzo, the Maitre'd, is charming and knows his wine and is extremely caring.

Beach club is nice, both on the beach and in the pool area. Lunch here worth having.

Downside - Plumbing is a bit noisy.

In need of a last minute break we decided upon Sicily. We wanted to be close to a town but far enough to escape the hustle and bustle.

After referring to our trusty Trip Advisor we came upon the Hotel Ipanema in Taormina Mare and it seemed to fit the bill. We were not disappointed!

This is a welcoming hotel with extremely helpful staff from Reception to the restaurant. Rooms were clean, comfortable beds and plenty of hot water. The balconies with the sea views were ideal for a quiet relax before dinner. There was always a choice of food (we dined earlier rather than later) and something to tempt everyone although I would not describe it as outstanding. The weekly buffet was, on the other hand, excellent and put many a 5* hotel to shame.

The hotel pool was very clean and we never struggled to get a sun lounger in the week that we were there.

The hotel is close to the cable car to get in Taormina but far enough away for it not to be intrusive. At 3 euros it was not worth getting a taxi up the winding streets to the top.

My tip to get around would be to forget the car (crazy driving and lots of narrow streets) and head for the bus station. You can go up to Etna and visit many of the tourist sites quite easily and for a fraction of the price. (The bus station is down the road from the cable car station so easy to get to).

An ideal place for a relaxing break.