Astoria - Ravenna, Italy     

My wife and I stayed at the Astoria for 2 days in March 2008. I'm going to have a little problem explaining our experience in a few words, but I'll give it a shot. I think the best way I can put it is to say the Astoria was put in a state of suspended animation in 1973. Everything about it has a 'Life on Mars' feel to it -- from the wood paneling to the checkerboard ceiling pattern to the clunky reception desk and fly curtains. Just drive up in your Jensen Interceptor and remember to wear your flairs and patent leather shoes, and you'll fit right in. All kidding aside, the place is quite clean and orderly, and gives you pretty much everything you need for ~70E/night. Good beds, good TV, nice bathrooms with functioning showers etc. Sure, the breakfast buffet is a little skimpy and the hreception staff (at least the young lady we have the distinct displeasure of dealing with) have the look on the undead, but these are minor quibbles when you consider you can't really put a price on this kind of time-portal experience. Seriously, folks, check it out; it's a gas.