Reviews of Villa Carmen

Lovely, quiet place

June 2017 - We really loved our stay in Villa Carmen. It was a lovely, quiet place to relax and enjoy the spectacular view.

Summer in Italy was very helpful and easy to use. The newsletters are great too!

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Fantastic

September 2015 - The Villa Carmen is an Italian gem, we absolutely loved our stay in this beautiful part of the world. The location is very good and the villa has everything you could possibly need.

Luca [the caretaker] was unbelievably helpful & made our stay truly memorable. We would return in a heartbeat, in fact we are already working on dates for the next trip!

Great communication from start to finish! Thank you so much for all your help & advice!

Travel tips

Very good

August 2013 - We had a fantastic time in Praiano. I recommend to stay there for everybody looking to see more than touristic business with high prices. We liked Praiano definitely more than Positano or Amalfi. Easy and funny shopping, long but healthy and beautiful way to beach. We have been there with 2 children - they love it too.

Best of where the breakfast sessions and long evenings with amazing views.

We thought the villa would be more luxurious. Kitchen furniture need renewal, we could not make air con in one of the bedroom work, bathrooms have quite a historical atmosphere.

Finally - we love this holiday - one of the best of ours ever!

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Fantastic

June 2013 - We were very happy with our stay at Villa Carmen. Perfect setting in a quiet neighborhood, lovely gardens, bus close by, market up the street and wonderful terrace and views. Our only complaint was one toilet that would not flush and one bathroom had no water for the shower. But as we had 2 bathrooms, it worked out.

Very happy with the friendly and helpful service. Good response and help with booking and getting settled in.

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Fantastic

July 2012 - Villa Carmen is a perfect place for a peaceful holiday. The views from the terraces and balcony are stunning. The villa is well appointed and comfortable.

Praiano is a quiet village with good public transport links to Amalfi and Positano. So you can soon get the lively resorts, or choose to spend peaceful days in Praiano. There are two beaches within walking distance, and the village shops have all your basic needs. There are some good bars and restaurants too.

We would like to thank you for your excellent service throughout the process - from helping us find the right villa, the easy booking and payment service to the enjoyable and informative newsletters. I would happily recommend Summer in Italy for their service and knowledge of Italy.

Travel tips

Excellent

October 2011 - The villa was great we all really enjoyed staying there. It was clean, close to shopping for groceries, not in the hub bub of traffic. Local and regional buses ran close by.

The place was large enough for couples to have their privacy and individuals to also find places away from the group which sometimes on holiday you need that break.

Excellent

October 2011 - It was a great trip and the villa is a great place to start out any traveling that you do (you do have to be good on your feet -- only the Tutto per Tutti shop is close).

Overall a beautiful spot and we had a lovely time.

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Excellent

June 2011 - Villa Carmen was great. The neighbours were friendly and helpful.

We had a great time.

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Excellent

October 2010 - We thought Villa Carmen was perfect. The place was beautiful with a wonderful view and very peaceful.

There were two supply stores within a few metres and the local bus went by the door. Anywhere in Praiano requires a lot of walking but it was manageable and well worth it.

The SITA bus service was erratic at times, but we got there in the end

Excellent

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Excellent

September 2008 - This was our second time at Villa Carmen in 2 years. In 2006 we stayed in early June and we loved it. This time we stayed in August and we did not enjoy it because it was too hot without air conditioning, and only one working fan.

However the view is beautiful from the balcony off the kitchen.

Travel tips

Excellent

July 2008 - We enjoyed staying at Villa Carmen very much.

The location is away from the village so it is very quiet, but it has a bus stop less than 100 meters away and the buses run every hour. It also has a nice grocery less than 75 meters away with everything needed for an extended stay.

The view was beautiful.

Excellent

June 2008 - Villa Carmen is best of both worlds. Lets you see how the real Italians of Praiano live and is close enough to bus transportation so you can be a tourist on the Amalfi Coast.

Loved it.

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Excellent

March 2008 - Great place and I really can recommend it to other travellers.

Excellent

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Excellent

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Excellent

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Excellent

May 2007 - We loved the villa. It was just the right size and was very well appointed. We loved the kitchen window looking out on the terrace. We could open it and set our dinner on the ledge and then easily get it to the table.

The view was great and so was the weather. We enjoyed the walk to the center of town although the first night there, after 20 hours in transit, it seemed like a million miles. We adjusted rapidly and by the next day, we made the walk easily. We often walked to and from twice a day. That was good to walk off the pizza and pasta, not to mention the gelato.

Not really about the villa, but we were in town for the Giro d'Italia. It was the first time in 10 years that it came through Praiano. Very exciting. We had seen it the year before in Stresa so we were ready this time!

I was very happy with the service we received from Summer in Italy. There were no surprises, the villa was very nice, and my emails were always answered quickly. I would definitely use Summer in Italy again.

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Excellent

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Excellent

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Excellent

March 2007 - We were two couples and we like villa Carmen very much.

The description in the Internet is very accurate.

The Praiano village is in perfect position between Positano and Amalfi.

Excellent

January 2007 - We stayed at Villa Carmen for 5 weeks (for all of December 2006 and the first week of January 2007) and we had a wonderful time there.

The location is ideal to explore the Amalfi Coast and the view from the house is hard to beat.

The neighbour (Palmina) and the local grocers were very helpful, as was Carmen, the owner.

The house is big enough to accomodate 4-6 people. We never felt crowded. Everything in the house worked well (stove, dishwasher, washer, showers, etc...) and the cleaning lady came every Saturday and cleaned the house from top to bottom. Very nice.

I would recommend Villa Carmen to anyone looking for a good home base from which to explore the Amalfi Coast. Praiano is a lovely small town, good restaurants, Internet cafe, good food markets.

We had a great time. Thank you to all, especially Carmen and Palmina.

You guys do a great job: your website is very well laid out and your emails are prompt and very informative.

We'll use you again for sure on our next trip to Italy.

Travel tips

Excellent

July 2006 - I enjoyed to stay at Villa Carmen very much.

Excellent for 4 people. Short way to go by bus, and to buy food.

Very nice view, but the town was little. The beach was long way (back home). Otherwise OK.

Excellent

June 2006 - We very much enjoyed our recent stay at Villa Carmen. The location of the villa was perfect, convenient to two local markets which contained nearly everything one would need.

The location of the town of Praiano was convenient for the day trips to the towns we had planned to visit in either direction along the Amalfi Coast.

The view of the Mediterranean from the terraces was spectacular.

We felt so comfortable surrounded by the friendly neighbors, whom we would so often find working their flower and vegetable gardens.

The caretaker, Roberto, is extremely capable and knowledgeable and a real asset to the owner.

We were delayed in our arrival into Naples, causing us to arrive at the villa very late, but Roberto was there to greet us as planned, and I believe would have been available no matter what the time.

Before our trip to Italy, the staff at Summer In Italy were very prompt and thorough in responding to any questions I had regarding the villa, as well as questions in general.

During the trip, they were invaluable in their efforts to assist us when we encountered problems with lost luggage. I don't believe we would have been successful in recovering it without their help. I felt as though they were always there for us and willing to do whatever possible to help with our dilemma. Though we never met, it was a comfort to know that we had reliable and competent friends in Italy upon whom we could rely. We would highly recommend Summer in Italy.

Excellent

June 2006 - We were 6 adults and enjoyed our stay at Villa Carmen very much.

Everything was close by, such as grocey stores, public phone, bus service within Praiano, and to other towns on Amalfi Coast.

There was a Community Centre and City hall within 200 meters of the Villa. My two sons and my daughter were welcomed to work out in the Community Centre Gym at no cost. Marco (club manager) was very nice and even gave my son a t-shirt to work out in.

Praiano is a small friendly town to which I would return to again.

The view from the villa was beautiful and eating dinner on the terrace was the best.

Excellent

May 2006 - Villa Carmen exceeded our expectations. The only shortcomings were related to some ancient equipment (iron and ironing board, etc.) and kitchen fittings that were past their use by date.

The benefits of staying in Praiano are numerous, including the tranquillity which is absent in Sorrento and Positano.

The local bus service is not as useful as some other visitors have described it, with potentially long periods between buses. We found that having a car was a distinct bonus, for visits to Praiano Port, Ravello, etc. Parking is sometimes difficult, but never (in May) impossible.

We found the total experience fantastic, and would add congratulations to Summer In Italy for providing a painless Internet facility.

Excellent

May 2006 - We had a wonderful stay at Villa Carmen. The villa was exactly as described on the website and suited our requirements perfectly.

We had two small children with us and the wonderful outside terrace area was a fantastic place for us to hang out and enjoy the magnificent views without having to be concerned about them getting into any trouble.

We found Praiano a very central place to explore the Amalfi coast and were able to manage well without having a rental car.

We do recommend renting a scooter early in your stay - very reasonably priced and the best way to explore and get a better understanding of the villages in this area.

All in all we had a wonderful stay and this is the perfect spot for a quiet holiday experience within easy travelling distance of all the wonderful offerings of the Amalfi coast.

We were very impressed with the service provided by Summer in Italy. We had no need to contact them during our stay as all the information provided up front was clear and detailed.

We will definitely make use of Summer in Italy if traveling to Italy again.

Excellent

March 2006 - The villa was very peaceful and in a nice setting. However, it is some distance from amenities in town, although the walk helps after a large meal!

Excellent service throughout - hard to improve.

Excellent

March 2006 - This was our first visit Italy and first "villa" rental. We loved Praiano for its authentic, quiet, rustic atmosphere, friendly residents and amazing views and walks.

Our villa was very adequate for our needs. We were grateful for the propane heating system, as it was unseasonably cold the first few days. The neighbors were friendly and there were two grocers on our street.

No problem catching the local buses either direction up the coast. Our best days were the lazy ones spent right in Praiano.

We really appreciated all the detailed information provided ahead of time by Summer in Italy on all aspects of the villa and the area.

We chose Summer in Italy based on an excellent website that provided such detailed information on each accomodation and the area, along with current reviews, to help us make a good choice. The information proved to be accurate, which was most rewarding.

Excellent

December 2005 - We had a lovely stay at Villa Carmen. Being November/December, the area was quite quiet with very few tourists. The locals were great!

We quickly came to know the people who worked in the two grocery stores nearby as well as Mrs. Palmina, the next door neighbour.

Villa Carmen had a perfect arrangement for us - we were two couples travelling together. Each couple had their own bedroom and bathroom (on the lower level). The common area (ground level), a living room with two tables and a full kitchen, allowed for socializing.

The view of the water from all three balconies was unbelievable!

We quickly realized how great the public transportation in Praiano was and started using it more than our rental car. Because we weren't used to the narrow streets and the difficulty finding parking, it was easier to take the bus and then the train which got us everywhere we wanted to go (Sorrento, Positano, Pompei, etc).

Praiano is the perfect little village to really get a feel for the Italian culture. The locals are friendly, the streets with their shops are quaint and there are a lot of sights nearby, easily accessible by bus and train (the train departs from Sorrento). In Praiano, we made use of the Internet cafe for checking our e-mails.

We had a very enjoyable visit. Thanks to Mrs. Carmen and thanks also to the staff of "Summer in Italy" who made it extremely easy to first find a villa that suited our needs and who then, via e-mail, made sure we knew everything we had to. They were GREAT!

Excellent

October 2005 - We really enjoyed this apartment. On the first day I was wondering whether an apartment in Positano would have been better located, but as the week went on we found that Praiano was really terrific.

The apartment had all we needed internally, the supermarket 'Tutto per tutti' was really great with a terrific deli section.

Overall, Villa Carmen was excellent value for money.

We were happy with the professional approach of Summer in Italy, and would use you again if the occasion arose. I was particularly impressed with the efforts you made in providing us with a summary after we had confirmed and paid.

Excellent

September 2005 - We had a wonderful holiday, excellent location, friendly locals and lots of beautiful places to see nearby.

Views were amazing, well worth visiting the places suggested on the information sheet.

Excellent service throughout, would definitely use Summer in Italy should we decide to go back.

Excellent

September 2005 - Overall it was above average to excellent, it:

- had all necessary facilities and inclusions; and everything functioned

- was in reasonably good condition

- was comfortable

- had sufficient space and number of rooms etc

- location and view were very good

- had expected "Amalfi" charm and ambience

- was close to shops and bus

Yes we very much enjoyed it.

Excellent

June 2005 - We really enjoyed our holiday at Villa Carmen. The only thing about the location, which made it very good but not excellent for us, was that we found it difficult to walk to the beach with the children along the main road - but this would have been a problem at many places.

The villa was very clean and comfortable. The holiday there was great, we wished that we had had been there for 2 weeks and not just for 1.

We were really impressed with Summer in Italy and would certainly use them if we come to Italy again. It was the first time that we booked a holiday over the internet and could not believe that it was so easy. Everyone was so helpful we would recommend you to anyone - infact we could not think of any way in which Summer in Italy could be improved.

Excellent

May 2005 - We loved it. Waking up to the view of the ocean, the sound of the Italian ladies talking next door, the church bells ringing...

It was wonderful.

The yellow bus stop is across the street, and the Sita is just down the road.

There is a great grocery store with everything one would need up the street.

We loved it and would recommend it without hesitation.

The decks are very private - there are 3 different decks to check out the view.

Your site has great photos and reviews to help make the decisions. You have provided good information and details.

Excellent

April 2005 - We loved staying at Villa Carmen and thought the view and location was perfect.

When we arrived, we followed the directions and parked at Hotel Tramonto D'Oro enjoying a wonderful lunch while overlooking the sea and the Amalfi Coast. The staff there treated us like family and were extremely helpful and generous.

Praiano was another pleasant surprise, as it was not too large and we found everyone very friendly.

Having a washing machine in the villa was excellent and the dishwasher was much appreciated.

Dealing with the staff of Summer In Italy was excellent and we would highly recommend booking through this agency. Ciao and gracia.

Excellent

March 2005 - We absolutely loved the Vila Carmen!

It was so peaceful and quiet. The perfect getaway.

Thank you for your help in making the vacation go very smoothly. It was wonderful!

Excellent

March 2005 - Our stay at Villa Carmen will be remebered for years. The view, the location, and the people are all wonderful.

The house was great, meeting all expectations.

Excellent

January 2005 - Villa Carmen is situated in a beautiful location with stunning panoramic views of the sea from all three balconies and including a spacious patio area.

The villa itself offers comfortable furniture and furnishings, as opposed to luxury - somewhat of a bonus with children around (no fears of breaking very valuable property!). We particularly liked the spacious living room and access to two well fitted bathrooms.

Parking the car was no problem and there are two well stocked and friendly supermarkets within a few minutes walking distance.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the villa and have no hesitation in recommending it to other travellers!

I found Summer In Italy most efficient and very helpful and look forward to booking with you again in, hopefully, the not too distant future.

Excellent

December 2004 - Villa Carmen was awesome!

We thoroughly enjoyed it and hated leaving.

We stayed glued to the patios and the balcony because the views were so spectacular.

It was perfect!

Working with Summer in Italy was an excellent experience for us. Everything was pretty straight forward and if I had questions or concerns, they were immediately addressed to my satisfaction. All responses were immediate and I found the staff to be attentive and informative to my questions about Italy in general. Booking with Summer in Italy was a most positive experience and Villa Carmen was awesome. I intend to recommend this company to others.

Excellent

November 2004 - We had a great week at Villa Carmen and hope to repeat the trip soon!

We will definitely return to the Amalfi Coast within 2 years (hopefully sooner!)

The best selling tool was the pictures and the prompt answers to questions, payment by credit card was especially valuable, as our rental in Lucca did not accept credit cards so we had to get cash to pay! Check-in was very easy, Roberto [the caretaker] is great! Thanks for a great vacation!!

Excellent

October 2004 - Villa Carmen is in the perfect location for exploring the Amanfi Coast. Praiano is lovely village that captures the flavor and beauty of the area without the traffic and crowds.

The villa itself is lovely and well designed to accommodate one or two couples, or a family. Both the building and the furnishings feel like a well-loved family home. Living there makes you feel like part of the village community. After a few days, it becomes your home and you will feel like your family has been in Praiano for generations.

The location of the villa is ideal. Whereas many of the coastal villas are only accessable by foot-paths (with innumerable stairs to climb), Villa Carmen is accessed by a small road that winds along the hill. This allows easy access, but this secondary road has little traffic and the villa is absolutely silent at night. The problem is not noise, but that silence makes it difficult to wake up in the morning! The villa does not have an assigned parking place, but has access to public parking less than 100 meters down the road. We had no difficulty finding a parking place when returning each night. Additionally, one of the two bank machines in the village is 25 meters away and there are two grocery stores within 50 meters. We shopped at the grocery "Tutto di Tutto" so often that the staff came to expect us and greeted us by name.

We found that both Positano and Amalfi were much more congested then Praiano and it was impossible to park in either. Fortunately, the stop for the Positano bus is practically on the doorstep of Villa Carmen. So, visiting Positano is not a problem, yet you can return to your quiet sanctuary at the end of the day.

Praiano, like the other coastal villages, has many footpaths. There is a footpath that descends from Villa Carmen to the Praiano harbor. The harbor has two very nice restaurants that you can walk to, though the descent it much easier then the return ascent.

Signore Roberto [the owner] is available to help you if needed, or to provide advise and suggestions. We enjoyed our stay at the Villa Carmen and hope you will to.

Summer In Italy handled everything perfectly, thank you for everything.

Excellent

September 2004 - I really have to say that this is one of the most enjoyable places I've stayed in, and I've traveled a lot (over 200 days in Europe alone).

The location, Praiano, avoids the crowds you get in Amalfi or Positano, while being a just few kilometers away from them.

There are two groceries within a very short walking distance, and a bus stop a few steps away.

It's quiet, roomy, and quite charming.