A short break.

[Paul Carmel]

Hello you lot, I don't think I have looked in this part of LMH before.

We are off to a surprise 40th birthday party in Florence, and were wondering if anyone had any tips on hotels, restaurants, bars etc?

Also we intend to spend a night Siena so any thoughts along the same lines would be more than welcome. (nb we are on a budget!!)

Last but not least, we are hoping to do a bit of shopping for things for the house - is there an Italian equivalent to say Habitat in the UK, or Fly in France? We are going to Ikea outside Florence, maybe there are other good places nearby?? Also diy stuff, tiles etc (we've heard they're cheap!)

Thank you all very much in advance!

[Giddy Goat]

You're going to re-vamp your image (pun intended!) when you go Paul, aren't you - otherwise I don't rate your chances of finding any accommodation - save in a cave perhaps!

Seriously, hope someone can set you straight, and have a great time!

[Paul Carmel]

GG,

I take it you mean Seymour Butts, my aviator, As you may recall he is our in house baby sitter/butler, and I have to say he has been a bit of a hit with the lady guests this year. We dont plan on taking him with us on this little holiday.......so fret not Italy.

[Giddy Goat]

Phewww! Relieved about that!

Paul, what sort of lady guests have you had this year? I've just googled to learn more... and what does your good lady wife think about having him as a member of your household?

[Paul Carmel]

I think my wife is more worried about his wife Mrs Wander Peaks Butts,

[Giddy Goat]

GG,he is our in house baby sitter

This is what worries me most of all, Paul!

[Maria Thwaite]

Hi. Try www.aguide2italy.com they have plenty tips etc

[Garri]

Maria, unless Paul was being super organised and planning well in advance, like 2 years in advance, I think the surprise 40th may have been and gone

Does the site you mentioned have up to date special offers? Would be good if it did

[anmar1]

Hello you lot, I don't think I have looked in this part of LMH before.

We are off to a surprise 40th birthday party in Florence, and were wondering if anyone had any tips on hotels, restaurants, bars etc?

Also we intend to spend a night Siena so any thoughts along the same lines would be more than welcome. (nb we are on a budget!!)

Last but not least, we are hoping to do a bit of shopping for things for the house - is there an Italian equivalent to say Habitat in the UK, or Fly in France? We are going to Ikea outside Florence, maybe there are other good places nearby?? Also diy stuff, tiles etc (we've heard they're cheap!)

Thank you all very much in advance!

Hello, if you haven't gone yet,
my favourit place is

Trattoria( not the restaurant) IL Cibreo,
Via dei macci, 122, Santa Croce Area.
Good food, good wine, nice atmosphere.

have fun.
I go there everytime I got the canceto leave the country,