The more hotels you stay in, as I have, over the course of my 76 years, the more you recognize the rarity, and the immense value, of a host who really knows the meaning of hospitality. I do not know if Barbara has any equity in the hotel, but she sure behaves as if she genuinely believes that happy customers are wanted and cultivated.

Oh yes, the rooms could be brighter. Over the course of three different stays while in and out of Florence over the course of two weeks, I saw at least 1/2 dozen of the Galileo's rooms. It was that many because when I checked in each time, I was offered 3 room keys from which to examine and select the one I wanted. A few were kind of cave-like. But I still would have accepted any one of them because they all were clean and quiet.

The included breakfast was the most complete of any I saw during 20 days. There were even properly cooked hard-boiled eggs. They served real juices (not "juice drinks").

OK, the TV was small and limited. But I did not spend all that money on air-fare and all that time in coach so I could watch television. The Galileo was a place to sleep. That was what they did, and well. $72eu a night after a 10% discount for cash.

Barbara was generous with her time in giving asked-for advice. She suggested the "right" restaurant and booked concert tix (without earning a commission). She was always pleasant and warmly professional.

My final night on Florence came about due to a sudden change in my itinerary that required a extra night. The Galileo was full. Barbara found me a good room right down the block for less money - but when I go back to Florence again, I will book as early as I can. I don't want to stay anywhere else.

We traveled with our two adult sons, renting two rooms, using Rick Steves' book for recommendations. This hotel was more pricey than others in its class in Rome or Venice, but was conveniently located within easy walk (with baggage) of the Santa Maria Novella station and all the central city attractions.

The hotel is very pleasant but the rooms were cramped, dark and not laid out in a user-friendly manner. For example, the commode was facing the sink so that your face was in the sink when you sat on the throne. Unfortunately, that was the only place where we could read Steves' book, as the bathroom was the only place with sufficient light for reading.

The breakfasts were really good. The staff was friendly and helpful. There was a coin laundry across the street, which proved very handy.

We loved our visit! The hotel is truly in the heart of Florence and the staff was beyond wonderful! The hotel offers roomy accomodations--even for three per room and the view outside of the window was intoxicating! The staff offered unlimited assistance in terms of directions, reservations, and recommendations in terms of museums, NOT TO BE MISSED SIGHTS, and restaurants.

We relied heavily on Rick Steves books for our overall plans--which was a very good plan, but the hotel staff truly supplemented his work with recommendations.

The breakfast is varied and filling--you name it and they have it--I just can't wait to go back! Hopefully, that will be soon!