I stayed at Colsseo suites for two reasons: 1 -- first choice 'sister' Hotel Valle was booked out and 2. better location than the Valle, and OFFERED the possibility of self catering. As a loan traveller, and heading homewards after 5 weeks, the chance to make own breakfast, etc at my own convenience appealed. However, having picked up the key at Hotel Valle, and followed muddled directions -- I do speak more than passable Italian -- in spite of asking for specific info (like this side of the street?), I found the premises with assistance from shopkeepers along Via Cavour. Had to cross street and go back on my tracks -- trailing end of holiday heavy luggage -- and found it. A very large set of doors (fort open), a gate and two more doors, to be confronted by a curving staircase, NO LIFT, and a hunt for the lighting!! Struggled up stairs, thinking a nice cup of tea/coffee will be possible after this effort. Room fine, (with large sofa bed already folded out and made) clean, nice bathroom with plentiful towels, and a small 'kitchen', with two burner stove and limited but adequate crockery (no bowls).....but NO PAN, NO SAUCEPAN, forget a kettle, and forget possibility of heating water...I called reception at Hotel Valle to be advised that no one could come now, perhaps in the morning. In clear Italian I pointed out that a kitchen with no pans is a bit like a bathroom with no towels, and as I had paid for these facilities I expected a utensil before morning. When I then enquired about password for the "free wi fi connection available in all suites" as advised on the website, the receptionist was completely at a loss, such a facility did not exist. After an hour a member of housekeeping staff arrived and together we scoured other apartments in search of a utensil with which to heat water......in the 5th apartment checked, we found one medium sized pot. So at least 5 other apartments have nothing with which to heat water, forget cooking!! I ;pointed out that large water bottle in water dispenser on the landing, was empty, but in spite of acknowledgement, this was still empty when I left 3 days later!
Later after an evening stroll etc ret'd to find the very large wooden doors (at least 4m high, and 6cm thick) closed. While struggling with the miniscule key I had for this door, a resident of another part of the building opened the door from inside and I was able to get in..The next evening I was not so fortunate, and after grappling with the door and key went up to Hotel Valle where reception again used the line "I can't do anything for you now" and suggested I ask a policeman for assistance!!. I was offered another key -- 1cm longer -- and went off to try again, having first pointed out to reception that if I had no further success, the hotel would need to find me a room, and someone to open the door to the 'Suites' asap as I needed to pack for a flight the next day. Fort the little key finally worked.
Overall, given the complete lack of assistance (until pushed very hard), the incomplete facilities etc I would not recommend this accommodation, nor will I book it again,.
The young lady at reception offered an apology of sorts, which could clearly be interpreted as 'I only work here" , and suggested I take up the various problems with management!!
