IASF Palermo

This is a very stylish hotel, great design flare and extra special touches like Ortigia products in the bathroom. The rooms are generous in size and miniminalist and crisply decorated. The pool is a wonderful addition. However at the time of my stay (October) there was a building site directly next to swimming pool area and a distinct end of season feel around the pool, with no lounger cushions or towels available for guests who wanted to chill or swim. I was traveling alone, transiting on business, and wanted to stay close to the airport but was very drawn to the resort vibe of this hotel and its reputation for food. I never got the chance to eat in the restaurant because I was turned away at dinner service because I had no reservation, even though there were plenty of tables free. I have to say it was a bit humilating to be refused a table for dinner, and particularly so given I was a single woman with no transport, who obviously wasn't in a position to go elsewhere for dinner (the hotel is quite remote). I am amazed that the reception team did not suggest that I needed to book when I checked in. I would suggest more consideration for guests.

The only flaws are that the rooms are very small, the air conditioner did not function properly on a hot day and this place is in the middle of nowhere. If you are seeking exclusive this is it

Fabulous location but very expensive for the experience and the food is over priced for its quality and example being salad nicoise ( with no egg )at €32 and €12 euro cover charge ( when it came the anchovies had been forgotten by the chef - how can that happen ! ) Some staff are extremely good and helpful , others a little disengaged !