The area looks sketchy as you approach the property, but looks can be deceiving as we learned. Literally surrounded by some sketchy properties. Poor doesn’t mean unhappy, and angry residents evidently. This hotel is a guarded property and you drive through to an immaculate oasis. The only nice hotel that we saw within kilometres.
The appearance around this area looks edgy, and rough. Being from a small town we asked the front desk if it was safe to walk around during daylight hours. We were assured and we did so….and it was one of the greatest trips of our life. The pizza and pastry shops within a two minute walk were mind blowing good and the people were so friendly. There aren’t many tourists on the streets, so off-hotel you’re eating with local people that all look friendly and they’re kind of trying to figure out who you are and where you’re from. The culture in this area is very kind. Front desk clerks are super helpful and the hotel shuttle service will help with short trips.
For longer trips, ask for Emilio who has a paid shuttle service. In a 20 minute cab ride, you’ll get tens of hours of local knowledge, where to eat for the best authentic foods, areas to tour, history...
A major reason for staying here was a high end property close to authentic pizzerias. And trust me, if you want Napoli style pizza, you’ll be blown away. Generally $5 Euro for a margherita pizza and $8 for the loaded. Give a couple bucks tip at the pizzerias and they’ll show gratitude.