Grand Hotel Minerva
C. Italy: Tuscany: Florence
The Grand Hotel Minerva, located in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, represents a perfect blend of the old and the new. Only a short walk from the cathedral (Duomo), part of the hotel dates back to the 17th century. A total renovation added all modern comforts such as double-paned glass in the windows, satellite television, designated non-smoking rooms, English language in-house movies, and mini-bars. There is a gorgeous Presidential Suite with a frescoed ceiling dating to the 1700's with a large sitting room and two bedrooms. For families, the hotel has connecting rooms and bi-level accommodations that can sleep up to six persons! Children under 12 are complimentary (maximum 1 child per room) when sharing parents' rooms. There are also complimentary VCR's available for families with children's videos, bicycles for rent with route maps around Florence (helmets and children's seats are provided by the hotel), a panoramic rooftop swimming pool with a snack bar where drinks and light fare are served. Open air dining is available at the hotel's restaurant during warm weather months. With all these features, the Minerva has become THE JDB family hotel in Florence! JDB has very special rates and amenities offered exclusively to JDB clients at the Minerva.

NOTE: JDB's experience has been that clients are more pleased with the higher category rooms than standard. Garage parking is available nearby.