I mostly chose this place for the location and for very good reviews that I had read here in Tripadvisor. Unfortunately, Caterina, the lady who is often mentioned here and who offered a great service, wasn't there. She went on early maternity leave (by the way I wish her all the best).
When I arrived at the resort, I was received by a young guy. I had two suitcases with me and I was alone, he showed me the appartment, he didn't help me with the suitcases, not even one of them. I had to pull one suitcase at a time and the guy was just looking at me. The same happened at the departure, he didn't at least opened the door. I had to hold the door opened and let one suitcase go at a time. And he didn't even say goodbye when I left.
They leave a toilet paper roll in the bathroom, but then when I asked if I could get more, I was told that I had to buy it. In addition you have to buy plastic bags for bins, washing up & laundry liquid, kitchen sponges and so on.
Linen and towels are changed once a week, however I had to remind them cause they were not provided.
There's no clarity on reception open times, they said they were opened in the morning, but many times I didn't see anybody. The day before my excursion, I didn't know where the bus stop was and there was nobody to ask to, I had to find it by myself.
Internet works only in the reception area, doesn't work in your appartment.
Air conditioning at the reception is on only when staff are present, otherwise it would be turned off, windows cannot be open, and while you're using your internet, it may be hot and humid (sometimes in September it was 30-32 degree during the day and 27 in the evening).
When you arrive, you have to pay 100 euro deposit which it will be returned to you. It's written everywhere that you have to leave sink, cooker, fridge and kitchen tools perfectly clean, otherwise they'll deduct 50 euro from the deposit for extra cleaning.
Said this, before arriving, I had received an email from Caterina that I had got an upgrade, from a studio to a room appartment which was great. Also, the appartment was on the top floor from where I could get some sea view (you have to stand up to see it). The appartment was big and bright, and the kitchen well equipped. Lower ceiling in the bedroom which I found very cosy and bohemien.
The place is only 50 metres from the sea. There are many places nearby where you can do your shopping or dining.
I recommend Pasticceria Desir for your breakfast (their coffee granita with whipped cream on the top and brioche, is the best in Letojanni). Buy your fruits and vegetables in Despar, they have the largest choice. In September I found fresh figs and courgette flowers which I didn't see anywhere else, not even at the big market in Catania.
Then I recommend you to try the Sicilian cuisine. I'm Italian myself, I didn't have an idea of how much delicious food I could find on this island. If you're unsure when you buy ingredients and food may look strange to you, sellers and locals will be very happy to explain to you how to cook it.
Do try Sicilian food. It's an experience.
fringipane2015-09-19