Parker,

My first stay in Praiano was at the Fiorere*** which is owned by family friends of my former boyfriend who I was traveling with that trip. It is quite nice and has good views. Directly across the street the the Tramonto d'Oro****. Both of these hotels have roof-top (meaning 1 storey up from road) pools and great views of Positano. My stay there was in March, so the road was dead quiet day and night. Breakfast was typical.

Last trip I stayed at Le Sirene, as recommended by Ira. I just loved it! Down past the church, lots of stairs down from the road, but they will handle your luggage if they know you are arriving/departing. Quiet, partial views, lovely owners, great breakfasts. Ask for a room with a terrace or balcony.

The main decision for me during the summer insanity would be: stay in a crowded place with all the other tourists, but with boat options for trans, or stay in a quiet place and deal with crowded buses.....

PS - having visited twice (March deserted, mid-Sept miserably crowded IMHO), if I ever went in summer, I would park my butt in a lovely villa with a seaview and a pool and not go anywhere at all!

Thank you all so much and yes "Ian" I do and have been over analyzing this and every other decision. I guess when things cost so much $$$ AND it is a place I will likely not visit for many years to come, i want to have the best experience the first go round.

With that said, we have decided to stay in Positano. Hotel booked! Now on to Rome....