My husband and I are planning a trip to Italy in June/July. Has anyone stayed in the Hotel Olympic, (also named Grand Hotel Olympic)? Is it nice, centrally located to see sights? Also we will rent a car in Rome and travel to Pisa, Florence, and Genoa. How is the Royal Victoria Hotel in Pisa? (Thanks for the comments already sent), also I tried to book Hotel Casci in Florence but it is full on our dates. There is alot of excellent publicity on this site about Hotel Casci so it is booking fast! (Great job for those who share their good experiences)!! Any other recommendations, want nice, clean and a/c room in Florence. And lastly, my grandparents came from Genoa and I would like to go visit Genoa 1-2 days. Any suggestions of accommodations, sites. From what I am reading there is a high crime rate in certain areas. Would still like to go see where my grandparents originated from. Thanks for all your responses in advance. HELEN

highly recommend the Hotel Pierre in Florence...stayed there for a week last fall and loved it! Awesome location! www.remarhotels.com

Genoa was surprisingly interesting. They also have a famous aquarium there.<BR>Just be sure and check about where to go. There are areas you don't want to visit. That said, just be sure not to venture into unknown areas. Why not hire a guide. Genoa didn't actually seem threatening to me. In fact, the folks at the train station were some of the nicest on the trip. I felt very safe there and I liked it. We stayed at the StarHotel President which was recommended by our friends living in Genoa. There were a lot of business travelers there and it is a high-rise hotel, very much like an American hotel, but it was close to our friend's work and home. Our room was large and very nice, but didn't have an Italian flair. I think if you are uncomfortable about Genoa, you would feel comfortable in this hotel.

Thanks for the two replies, they are helpful. Any other info others could give would be welcomed. HELEN

Definitely stay at the Lungarno in Florence. It is absolutely beautiful, quiet and in a great location.

Great replies, but has ANYONE stayed, or know about the Hotel Olympic in Rome? Thanks, HELEN

Too bad about the Casci. I read an article a few months ago in the NY Times Travel section. The writer had also had a problem getting into the Casci so the casci set her up with a reservation at the Hotel Europa, across the street from the Casci, similar look and feel and price, also family run. SHe spoke very highly of the Europa. You may be able to retrieve this article from NYTimes.com. I haven't seen this hotel mentioned on this board but the article made it sound like a real find. I personally, stayed at the Casci and was very pleased. I would look into this other hotel if ever I have the pleasure of returning to Florence.