Portobello

Portobello B&B has a relaxed, cheerful feel, and I felt at home there. The rooms are bright and colorful, kept with care, and the atmosphere is informal and authentic. Its location on Via Federico di Palma puts you right on the main shopping street in central Taranto, with boutiques and the main monuments just steps away. I liked having a shared kitchen and dining room, and the free Wi-Fi was fast and reliable, even for work. The warmth and helpfulness stood out too. They welcomed me with that typical Puglian smile and were ready with advice on where to eat orecchiette or watch the sunset over the Mar Piccolo. Clean, colorful, and very central, a great guesthouse for seeing the city like an insider.

Valentina was extremely kind and helpful, and the central location was a plus. The building entrance and main door use codes, which made getting in convenient without juggling several keys. The room itself felt dated and was very dim. The sockets didn't work, and there was only one adapter. Sound insulation was poor: a wooden door connected it to another room, there were closable glass shutters on the other side, and the walls were thin. The double bed was made from two singles. The private bathroom was outside the room, quite far away, and so small it really wouldn't suit a large person.

The location is great, with a good grocery store and plenty of restaurants nearby. The rooms are spacious, but have worn, unattractive furniture and otherwise fall short. There are two bathrooms, both tiny. One is basically just a sink, so only one is really usable, though that one is comfortable enough. Water from the air conditioning drains into tanks in or near the rooms, and the filters need replacing because they're dirty. The kitchen is short on basic utensils, and the rusty pots and pans can't be used. There were no sheets, but plenty of towels. For me, the location is the only reason to stay here.

There was no welcome at all, and nobody explained how to prepare breakfast. The owner couldn't be reached by phone. I understand a new baby can take attention, but guests shouldn't be left to fend for themselves. The radiators didn't work, and the room and bathroom were only averagely clean. The photos don't reflect the actual rooms, which is unfair to people paying for the services, comfort and furnishings they show. Unexpected problems can happen, but guests still need proper organization and care throughout their stay, in line with the kind of place it is. You shouldn't try to run a hotel if you can't manage those basics. The negative feedback is well deserved.