Cosy Rox, Bari, Italy

This is a Trusted Review. Why?

We'd had a hellish journey into Bari and wasn't much helped by the language barrier. I was accompanied by an Italian friend and yet found it nearly impossible to find the place to check in. In the directions provided, it doesn't specify details like 'you'll find it across the road' nor point out landmarks or shops that make identification easier for foreigners to the area. When we eventually found the check-in place, which is the owner's apartment (again, not specified. we expected a little shop or something of that sort), we found no-one answering the door despite ringing several times. Frustrated, tired and confused, we decided to find the hostel apartment itself which proved to be impossible as well since none of the locals on the street (i.e. shop keepers etc) knew about the hostel's existence and therefore couldn't help. We texted the number provided but received no reply. Finally, we found a payphone 3 hours later (our luggage in tow) and called. We returned to the first apartment where he denied all our claims to have repeatedly rung the bell and waited outside his apartment.

After that first day, our experience much improved. I imagine this to be greatly contributed by the owner, Francesco's friendly disposition. He printed out maps pointing out interesting areas in Bari and so forth. He even hosted a dinner party for us temporary tennants.

The apartment itself is great. Well furnished etc. The shower is a little too small but its got hot water and a powerful jet so I am not faulting it much. The rooms are big and well ventilated. The location (apart from the initial difficulty in getting there), is good as well since its near to many of the sights Bari has to offer as well as the train station and the beach. Although, for a better beach, I'd suggest leaving the city (we enjoyed Polignano a Mare the most - its 20 minutes away and quite cheap on the train).

In the end, it's great value for money. The only suggestions I have for improvement would be to replace the shower doors and to personalise the directions to make it easier for travelers.

If you're going to visit Bari (irrelevant of how I feel about the city itself), this is a good place to stay.

Overall

5

Location

3

Cleanliness

4

Value

5

Facilities

5

Service

5

T.Malde stayed here in Jul '09