Villa Taormina and its hosts are as charming as the eponymous town. Our room was lovely and sizeable, easily able to fit a cot for our teenager. The beds were so comfortable -- critical after a day of hiking up the local cliffs. Our room's balcony opened onto a sweet garden area with a pool. The abundant breakfast buffet was served in a bright, balconied room on the top floor looking over the sea and Mt Etna. Our hosts guided us to the best local restaurants, regaled us with stories about the history of the hotel and the town, and made us feel like family friends. The heart of town, with its sweet restaurants and shops, was a few steps away.