Hotel Globus...

It was Margaret in Vancouver, Canada who told me that she never fails to stay at the three-star, Hotel Globus when she's in Florence. After being a guest there, myself, I understand why. To begin, the location is perfect -- less than a ten-minute walk from the central train station (if you use a small suitcase on wheels, the walk is perfectly easy), steps away from San Lorenzo Market (fun shopping) and not far from many of the famous churches and museums you will be exploring. In fact, the church bells were my alarm clock, chiming at 7:45AM each morning. A delightful way to start an Italian day.

Hotel Globus is a little gem recently renovated by it's young owners, Serena and Michel. Think Milan meets Florence on a minimalist, moderate scale -- creams, beiges, browns -- pot lighting, chrome trim, orchid plants, bamboo shoots and modern art gracing the walls of the reception area. My single room with tiled bathroom was not large but very workable and stylish. From the in-room safe to heated towel racks and hair dryer to the WebTV that allows a connection to your hotmail account, all of a travellers needs are easily met.

The breakfast room has the feel of a small cafe offering welcoming service and the kind of breakfast that women will love. Take your pick -- croissants, rolls, toast -- low-fat yogurts, both fresh and dried fruit, packaged cheese and pates, crackers and cappuccinos. Hotel Globus is definitely a home away from home. Visit their website and please send them Journeyman's regards. These are nice, nice people!

Hotel Goldoni ...

It was Sal in Toronto that connected me to the three-star Hotel Goldoni and staying there was a delicious experience as well. This hotel is situated in elegant surroundings in the city's historical center, a stone's throw from the Arno, and about two blocks from the famous Ponte Vecchio. Located behind the facade of a prestigious building, you must ring to get in and take the small lift to the second floor reception area.

My single bedroom with shower was small but very comfortable and boasted all the usual amenities. Decoration throughout is traditionally European with dark woods and damasks in soft shades of blues and deep reds. The breakfast room with marble floor, wine and gold decor and swag curtains is elegant without a trace of stuffiness. I learned from the hotel brochure that "..during his tour of Italy in 1770, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was an honored guest of the hotel." I wonder if he enjoyed his carrot and apple breakfast yogurts as much as I did?

Service throughout was excellent and offered with a smile. Hotel Goldoni sits on a wonderful street (Borgo Ognissanti, 8) filled with bookstores, antique shops and restaurants that will delight you for hours. Highly recommended! Fax: 055/28.25.76

A great little lunch spot...

It was the young woman at the travel agency that directed me to Rose's up the street for lunch. "It's a local favorite -- especially for women," she said. Named after the owner's grandmother, this is the perfect little spot to enjoy when you've had one too many pieces of pizza on the run. Their menu runs the gamut from a long list of salads and omelets (perfect with a glass of wine) to enchiladas, burgers and a myriad of stuffed pitas. Strictly veggie? Rose's served up a huge plate of grilled vegetables and fresh mozzarella accompanied by a bottomless basket of warm brown breads. Desserts like strudel with honey, fresh fruit salad and home-made muffins were tasty and not stuffed with extra calories. Try to arrive before 12:30 and you should find a spot. Once the shops close for lunch it will be a bit harder to be seated (Via delle Parione).

Fabulous leather gloves...

When in Florence where leather fashion abounds, it helps to get a referral if you plan on doing any buying. It was American JW reader, Nancy who met me for dinner one evening and showed off her latest Italian purchase -- funky, butter-soft black gloves with different color leather between each finger. What fun they were and very nicely made. The next day I, too, made my way to Roberta's, a tiny leather shop located on Borgo S. Jacapo 78r (a tiny street that runs parallel to the Arno between Ponte Vecchio and Ponte S. Trinita ) and owned by a sister-brother team. Their merchandise is impressive and prices were far better than those in the "tourist" part of town. Pick from unlined or lined (silk or cashmere) gloves in every colour of the rainbow. I bought the gifts for the important people in my life at Roberta's. They loved them and I stayed well within my budget. Website: www.robertafirenze.com.