Florio Park Hotel

At first glance, this tropically landscaped property can feel more like a compound than a resort. The security to enter and exit is tight, and the amenities and accommodations are spread out in a series of low buildings. Amenities such as the open-air Sea Club Disco (which doubles as a performance venue), a kids' club, outdoor sports offerings, bar, two pools, and 400-person conference center draw families, couples, a business crowd, and surfers depending on the time of year. French, Spanish (and, of course, Italian) is more often heard than English, thanks to the largely Mediterranean clientele.

Magaggiari Beach, a bayside stretch within sight of fishing villages and mountains, is adjacent to this property, a huge perk. It's location right next to the international airport is, not surprisingly, a blessing and a curse --it's convenient, but occasionally noisy. Terrasini Square, a popular spot for shopping, dining, and nightlife, is a 15-minute walk away, though it can be hard to get a taxi there if you don't feel like walking back at night. Other than that, the surrounding area is pretty nondescript.

Unlike in many, there are only two room types: standard and suites. The rooms are well-kept and clean, but have only basic amenities (hair dryer, air conditioning, heat, satellite TV, clock radio). The decor is dated (especially the bedding). Of the 210 rooms here, only six are suites, and those are not as plush as some may imagine. The main difference between the standard rooms and the suites is the separate bedroom and the upgrade to a jetted tub in the bathroom. This uniformity, though, is appealing to tour groups, enabling them to all have equivalent rooms, often in the same building.

Though advertised as a four-star hotel, going by American standards, this is more of a three-star property. Some amenities hold up: the swanky spa offering couples' massages and many high-end treatments, as well as the large no-charge parking garage. But at the same time, there are no elevators, no room service, and dated, basic rooms.

The main pool is quite large and has appealing mountain views. Parents will be happy to hear there is a kids' pool, but it is just a smaller version of the adult pool. There is also a supervised kids' club, but it's only open during the summer months. The extensive range of family-friendly outdoor activities includes tennis, mini-golf, and water sports.

Breakfast is included, but it's European-style, fine for light morning eaters, but perhaps a disappointment to those hankering for their omelette and carving stations. Lunch and dinner are buffet-style, and local wine is included with the meal.