I had the opportunity to visit Italy and unfortunately did not get a chance to venture out as much as I would like to but met a lot of impressionable italians while I was there.
I stayed at the Atahotel Quark via Lampedusa on the first part of my visit and the Holiday Inn via Francesco de Pinedo on my last night. The Atahotel Quark is a nice hotel - unfortunately it is located on the "outskirts" of the city and away from major restaurants, or other hotels. The Atahotel Quark does not have a "market" or "sundry" shop so if you want water, candy, or snacks at a reasonable price, get it before you arrive there. Otherwise, they do have a mini bar with p-nuts, a candy bar, coke, Fanta orange soda, juice and various liquors and wine.
The room was actually a suite with a living area and then the bedroom. Both rooms had verandah access and the bed was very firm - just the way I like it although some may consider it too hard for their comfort. As I stated, my room had a verandah where I could sit outside if I choose but the scenery left a lot to be desired.
The people are very nice and most speak passable English. If you meet someone who doesn't speak English, the minute you try they will get someone to assist you. On my second night in the restaurant, the waiter remembered me and immediately sought an English menu for me without my having to request one. It's a lovely hotel and I like the serene surroundings. If you're a city person moreso than a soul searching person, this might not be the place for you.I would give this hotel 3 Stars across the board.
As is common to most European hotels the internet is extremely overpriced. Business high speed connection is about $31 USA for 24 hours with unlimited downloads; standard high speed connection is about $24 USA for 24 hours with limited downloads. I did not see a difference in the connection speed or service so after the first night of business connections, I purchased the standard. It hurt me to my heart to do that one but I had to have internet access as I was there to work.
I should mention that there is also a AtaQuark Residence which is in the same area but separate from the Atahotel Quark so make sure you go to the right location. Either way, you can walk from facility to the next.
The food in the Atahotel restaurant was good and the service superb. I only knew the common courtesies in Italian and after the Maitre d'realized this, he quickly presented me with an English menu without being asked when I returned for subsequent meals. Very kind, courteous and helpful staff.
Overall, I would stay here again if I have business in the area or if I was in the mood for an isolated, undisturbed vacation. Hopefully, my next assignment will take me to Rome.
