Hotel Gemma - Casamicciola Terme, Italy 

Our stay at Hotel Gemma was a highlight of our 10-day vacation in southern Italy. This is a gem, one of those rare finds, family run hotel on an Island that does not have the tourist crush like Capri. Hotel Gemma's large thermal pool was a pleasure. The room was immaculate with a comfortable bed and air-conditioning. We had a spacious terrace with breathtaking panoramic sea views, including other islands and Mount Vesuvius. We took the full pension and were happy we did. The food was delicious and plentiful. Franco, JJ and the rest of the family including Gemma (this hotel's octogenarian namesake ) welcomed us warmly offering ideas and opportunity to fully enjoy our stay on this spendid island. Everyone went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed. Hotel Gemma exceeded all our expectations and we look forward to returning soon.

Franco warmly welcomed us upon our arrival and asked if we would like dinner that evening. We usually only have breakfast at the hotels we stay at but as it was late we said OK. That evening's dining experience proved to be a downfall of all the restaurants in Iscia. As big foodies and my hobby is cooking, we are severe critics of restaurant food but the food served to us that night was an absolute winner as was every evening's meal. Please note that their pizza is the best we've ever eaten. They grow all their own produce and even the marmalade is home made. We took some home. The hotel was started by Gemma when she was 26 and she still lends a hand at the ripe old age of 81 with the hotel being staffed by her sons, grandchildren and other family members. You are made to feel part of the family and nothing was ever too much. The rooms are well furnished, smart and very comfortable. I could go on and on but just suffice to say that the heading of this review says it all.