OK, thanks to all the great advice from this forum, I have my tickets to Italy for July 2007.

So, where should I stay? We are planning on one week in Sicily and one week in Florence. We want to rent apartments instead of staying at hotels; so that brings me to my two questions.

First, I have found an apartment large enough for six in Florence at the San Lorenzo apartments. Can anyone offer opinions on them? I have read here that some people thought that area was to loud at night and maybe not such a great location. Is that true? Should I look for something else. We want something centrally located, close enough to walk "everywhere", and close to the train for a couple of day trips to smaller towns. We will not have a car.

Second, is Palermo a good base for Sicily? The people I am traveling with would like a city with lots to do but close enough to "day trip" towns. Any apartment reccomendations for Palermo?

Any advice would be appreciated. Also, is it to early to book apartments for next July?

Thanks

Any suggestions??

Have you looked at www.slowtrav.com? It's the bible for self-catering acommodations in Italy, with reviews of specific rentals and of rental agencies. If you don't find what you want on the site, try posting your questions on www.slowtalk.com.

We found Parker Company very useful for Sicily. A bit pricier than some,but very thorough vetting of apartment/villas and excellent front-end handling of arrangements.

Thanks, I will check them both out.