Escape to Paradise: Family Fun at La Perla Hotel, Italy!
Escape to Paradise: Family Fun at La Perla Hotel, Italy! – A Frankly Honest Review (with way too many details!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to tell you EVERYTHING about La Perla Hotel in Italy. Forget those sterile, PR-approved reviews. This is the real deal, warts and all. And trust me, after a week there, I’ve got a few… ahem… observations.
First Impressions: The Good, The Okay, and the "Did I Pack Enough Sunscreen?"
Arriving at La Perla felt like stepping into a postcard. You know, the kind where the water is impossibly blue and the buildings look like they’ve been personally sculpted by Michelangelo. Honestly, the exterior of the hotel? Stunning. The CCTV outside property made me feel relatively safe (always a bonus when you're jet-lagged and carrying a suitcase the size of a small child), and the exterior corridor felt classic and charming.
The 24-hour front desk was a godsend. We arrived at an ungodly hour, and the staff were unbelievably patient with our travel-weary grumpiness. Speaking of which, the fact they offer contactless check-in/out felt super modern and, frankly, kind of futuristic. And let's be real, in post-pandemic times, that's a massive win.
Now, about the accessibility…
This is where things get a little… nuanced. La Perla claims to be accessible. They have facilities for disabled guests, an elevator that actually works (thank heavens!), and the website says it's wheelchair accessible. But my experience… well, it felt like the hotel tried to incorporate accessibility, but it wasn't always seamless. The ramps were sometimes a little steep, and some of the doorways felt a tad narrow. It's definitely better than some places I've been, but it’s worth double-checking specific needs with the hotel directly. Definitely not a deal-breaker for us because we don't have any accessibility concerns but something to consider.
The Room: My Sanctuary… and a Battleground for the Remote Control.
We were blessed with a non-smoking room (thank goodness, I hate that smell), which had air conditioning, a balcony, and a private bathroom. I appreciated the bathrobes, and the complimentary tea and free bottled water were lifesavers after those long travel days. The blackout curtains were also a game-changer for those afternoon naps.
However, the interconnecting room(s) available were a godsend, as we ended up having so many travelling with us, and that extra space was essential! The in-room safe box made me feel like I was living in a spy movie, even though I was just guarding my passport.
And the room service… chef's kiss. Seriously, having 24-hour room service is pure decadence. I may or may not have ordered pizza at 3 AM. Don’t judge. I'm on vacation!
Food, Glorious Food! (And the Occasional Digestive Drama)
La Perla boasts a plethora of dining, drinking, and snacking options. Seriously, they put those options in all the categories! Let's just start with breakfast, the most important meal of the day, particularly when you have kids and your mornings can be so chaotic! The Breakfast [buffet] was epic, with everything from Western breakfast items (bacon, eggs, the usual) to a selection of Asian breakfast goodies, if that's your thing. They have Coffee/tea in restaurant, and some amazing desserts in the restaurant!
I have to rave about the Poolside bar. The pool with a view was beyond gorgeous, and sipping a cocktail whilst my kids were splashing around made me feel like I was finally living my best life. It's also where I discovered my undying love for Aperol spritzes. Trust me, get one. Or three.
They have multiple restaurants, ranging from casual to slightly fancy. The A la carte in restaurant was excellent, though my attempts to order in Italian often resulted in the waiters looking at me like I'd grown a second head. I’d stick to English. It's much easier!
And about the safety protocols…
They took cleaning seriously. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and rooms sanitized between stays. They also do professional-grade sanitizing services. And the staff were all wearing masks and gloves. If cleanliness is high on your priority list, then you can relax.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax (or, How I Lost Myself in the Sauna)
Okay, so, the swimming pool is a huge draw. It's beautiful. The kids loved it. The views are breathtaking. But let's talk about the spa. Because, after all that travelling, a tired mother NEEDS a spa.
I went for the full experience: Sauna, Steamroom, Massage, Body wrap. Oh. My. God. It was HEAVEN. I mean, I literally melted into a puddle of bliss. The massage was exquisite, the body wrap was supremely relaxing. I have very intense memories of being in a Sauna -- very hot, but the best sleep of my life afterwards. It's where I spent a good portion of my afternoon, and it was glorious. That alone is worth the trip.
They also have a Fitness center, if you're into that sort of masochism. I, personally, opted for more lounging by the pool. But hey, it's there if you need it.
For the Kids: Keeping the Tiny Tyrants Entertained
This is where La Perla really shines. They're REALLY family/child friendly. The Babysitting service was a lifesaver for a night out, the Kids facilities (play areas, etc.) kept the little monsters occupied, and the Kids meal options avoided the dreaded "I don't like anything!" tantrum.
The "Stuff You Might Miss" Section
- Internet: they have Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and Internet access – wireless, so you really are connected. They also have Internet [LAN] so you can bring your own devices!
- Cashless payment service: convenient!
- Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site]: always awesome.
- Laundry service: so you can pack light (ish).
- Concierge: super helpful with recommendations.
- Gift/souvenir shop.
Quirks and Imperfections: Because Nothing is Perfect
- The walls in the rooms might not have been the thickest, so I did hear a bit of noise from the hallway at times.
- The elevators, while incredibly convenient, were fairly slow.
- Booking an accessible room in advance is a must.
- The Wi-Fi, while generally good, sometimes had a little bit of a hiccup.
Overall: The Verdict?
La Perla is a fantastic place for a family getaway. It's beautiful, the staff are lovely, the food is delicious, and the kids will have a blast. Does it have its flaws? Sure. But the positives far outweigh the negatives. And the spa… oh, the spa. It's truly paradise.
The "Escape to Paradise: Family Fun at La Perla Hotel, Italy!" Offer – Because You Deserve a Vacation!
Are you dreaming of sunshine, delicious food, and quality family time? Look no further! La Perla Hotel in Italy awaits!
Here's what you get:
- Luxury Accommodations: Spacious, family-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus some glorious balconies to stare out at the ocean, and a bed that you will actually find yourself wanting to leave the bed for.
- Unforgettable Culinary Experiences: Explore the vast dining options, from casual poolside snacks to gourmet restaurants with international cuisine. Enjoy the delicious breakfast buffet or take in the Poolside bar and relax.
- Kids' Paradise: With dedicated kids' facilities, babysitting services, and special kids' meals, your little ones will have the time of their lives.
- Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Melt your stress away in the spa with a massage, body wrap, sauna or steam room. Or lounge by the gorgeous Swimming pool [outdoor] and soak up the sun.
- Safety First! Our hotel has implemented robust safety measures, including Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocols.
Book your Escape to Paradise today and receive:
- A complimentary bottle of local wine upon arrival.
- A discount on spa treatments.
- Free early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability).
Don't wait! This offer is available for a limited time only! Visit our website now and enter the special code "VOGUE800" at checkout to receive your exclusive
Escape to the Dolomites: Unforgettable Luxury at Hotel Bemelmans-Post Renon
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the gloriously chaotic symphony of Family Hotel La Perla in Transacqua, Italy. Forget your pristine, perfectly-organized schedules. This is real life, people. This is vacation! Here we go…
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Pizza Debacle
- 10:00 AM (ish): Arrive at the airport. Bergamo, I think. Or maybe Verona? Honestly, the jet lag has already eaten my brain. The rental car? A Fiat Panda. Cute, right? NO. Tiny. My husband, bless his heart, looks like he's trying to fold himself into a sardine can. The kids are already bickering about who gets the window seat. This is going to be… fun.
- 12:00 PM (ish): The drive. Gorgeous scenery, of course. Think towering mountains, emerald green fields, little villages clinging to the hillsides. I'm trying to enjoy it, but the kids are complaining about "car sickness" (they had a cookie five minutes ago), and my husband is obsessing over the correct way to pronounce "Transacqua." (It's… Tranz-ahk-wah, apparently. Like I care!)
- 3:00 PM (ish): Arrive at La Perla! Whoa. Charming is an understatement. Think…picture-postcard perfect. Tiny balconies overflowing with flowers. A little cobblestone path leading to the front door. The air smells like pine and… maybe… something delicious cooking?
- 4:00 PM: Check-in. The owner, a woman named Maria with eyes that could melt glaciers (in a good way), greets us like long-lost relatives. She speaks about a mile a minute in Italian, and I understand about 30% of it. I nod and smile a lot. My survival strategy.
- 6:00 PM: The Great Pizza Debacle of '23. Maria recommended a local pizzeria. Sounds perfect, right? WRONG. Turns out, the "local" pizzeria is a 20-minute drive up a winding mountain road. The kids are screaming, "Are we there yet?" every three seconds. I'm starting to question all my life choices. We finally arrive. The pizza? Disappointment. Soggy crust. Weird toppings. My husband says it's "rustic." I say it tastes like cardboard. The kids only eat the cheese. We leave, defeated, and vow to find gelato immediately.
- 8:00 PM: Gelato rescue! Found a little shop in the town's main square. Pistachio. Hazelnut. Strawberry. Life is good again. The kids are finally happy, smeared in sugary goodness. I'm starting to think this vacation thing might actually… work? Maybe? Don't hold your breath.
Day 2: Mountains and Meltdowns (and Finding the Magic)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. The breakfast buffet at La Perla is AMAZING. Freshly baked bread, local cheeses, glistening prosciutto… I'm in heaven. The kids, of course, opt for sugary cereal. Go figure.
- 9:00 AM: Hike to the waterfall! Maria recommended a hike to a nearby waterfall. It’s supposed to be "easy." Maria's definition of "easy" is clearly different from mine. The trail is steep. The kids are whining. My husband is lagging behind, gasping for air. I'm alternately dragging the kids forward and threatening to leave both of them behind.
- 11:00 AM: The Waterfall! It's… breathtaking. The water crashes down, a shimmering cascade. The air is cool and crisp. For a few fleeting moments, I forget the chaos and just… breathe. This is why we travel, right? For moments like these.
- 12:00 PM: Meltdown City. On the way back, one child trips and scrapes their knee. The other one starts sobbing dramatically because they have to carry their own water bottle. The mountain refuses to stop being a mountain. I feel like my head’s going to explode. We get back to the hotel and I want to hide and never come out, but I don't want to be a bad parent.
- 1:00 PM: The Unlikely Hero: Spaghetti Carbonara. Maria, bless her heart, has sensed my impending mental breakdown. At lunch, she whips up the most incredible spaghetti carbonara I've ever tasted (and my husband agrees). Creamy, rich, with just the right amount of salty pancetta. It's food therapy. I actually feel my blood pressure drop several points. This woman is magic.
- 3:00 PM: Pool Time! La Perla has a little pool area. The kids frolic. The husband naps in a lounger. I read my book, pretending to be a sophisticated traveler instead of a frazzled mother of two. Success!
- 7:00 PM: The Pizza Redemption. Determined to right the pizza wrong of the previous night, we asked Maria to recommend a place. We found the pizza place. Thin crust, wood-fired oven, authentic ingredients. The kids devoured it. My husband declared it “the best pizza of his life”. Victory.
Day 3: Exploring and The Lost Shoe
- 9:00 AM: Day trip to a nearby town. It’s cute. We wander the narrow streets, dodging Vespas and trying to find a decent coffee.
- 10:00 AM: The museum. We try to go to a museum. Nope–the kids are bored silly.
- 11:00 AM: The Lost Shoe Incident. We got back to the hotel, and one of the kids has lost a shoe. We tear the room apart. We search the car. We retrace our steps. No shoe! Where on earth…? It eventually turns up under the bed. Crisis averted.
- 1:00 PM: Cooking Class. The hotel offers a cooking class. We want to try it. The kids are not interested in cooking. After some intense negotiations (bribery with gelato), they agree to participate… sort of. They mostly eat the ingredients. I have the time of my life, learning how to make (and eat) fresh pasta. Maria is the best teacher.
- 5:00 PM: Nap time for everyone (including me, if possible). Seriously, this vacation is exhausting.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel. Maria and her family cook us a feast of local specialties. It's all delicious, and we eat it all. We are stuffed.
Day 4: Farewell (for now!) and the lingering scent of pesto
- 9:00 AM: Final breakfast. A bittersweet moment. I could get used to this breakfast buffet.
- 10:00 AM: Packing. Always a nightmare. It involves a lot of searching, finding lost items (including the other lost shoe!), and stuffing everything into suitcases that seem to magically shrink.
- 11:00 AM: Say goodbye to Maria and her family. Hugs all around. The kids are even a little bit sad to leave. I feel a lump in my throat.
- 12:00 PM: The long drive to the airport. The Fiat Panda feels even smaller now. I have a vague feeling of deja vu.
- 4:00 PM: Flight home. Back to reality. But I have to say, I can't wait to come back to Transacqua someday.
This is not a perfect trip. It’s not Instagram-worthy. It's messy, chaotic, and full of moments of sheer, unadulterated frustration. But it's real. It’s the kind of vacation that leaves you exhausted, exhilarated, and with a suitcase full of memories (and possibly some lingering pesto stains). And that, friends, is what it's all about. Now if you'll excuse me, I think I’m going to go lie down.
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Okay, so "Escape to Paradise"... is it *actually* paradise when you've got kids in tow? (Be honest!)
Alright, let's get real. La Perla Hotel? Gorgeous. Photos? Stunning. Paradise? Well... it's paradise with a side of sand-in-your-pants and the constant threat of meltdowns, let's be honest. My own experience? Picture this: Me, trying to sip a cappuccino in peace on the balcony, admiring the Amalfi Coast. My *six-year-old*, meanwhile, is convinced he's swallowed a whole seashell and is now dramatically choking it out, while my *toddler* is applying sunscreen directly to the hotel curtains. So… paradise-adjacent? Definitely. But you'll earn those moments of zen, believe me.
The Rooms: Are they family-friendly, or tiny prison cells with a view?
Okay, room-wise? We opted for the connecting suites, thinking, "Brilliant! Separate spaces, sanity preserved!" (Narrator voice: *It was not entirely brilliant.*) They're *decent*-sized, I'll give them that. Clean, with big windows and balconies (potential for escape, if you're lucky). The kids' room had bunk beds, which was a hit (mostly). The bathroom situation? A bit… cozy. Imagine wrestling a toddler while trying to shower *and* avoid the miniature-soap-slipperiness-monster. Still, the view from our balcony! Worth every cramped, towel-strewn inch. Just don't expect a presidential suite. And bring extra baby wipes. Always bring extra baby wipes.
The Pool: Does it live up to the Instagram hype? And what about the little ones? Are they safe?
The pool… *sigh*. The pool is beautiful. Seriously. Turquoise water, infinity edge… it’s all there. The Instas don’t lie. But let's talk reality. The shallow end is *shallow*. Like, knee-deep shallow. Okay for toddlers to splash, but my older kid? Bored within *minutes*. And the chaos? Oh, the chaos! Floating toys everywhere, kids cannonballing non-stop. One day, I swear, I saw a rogue inflatable unicorn try to eat a waiter. Safety-wise? Decent life guards, but keep an eye on the little ones. My youngest somehow found a way to *sneak* past the adults and try to "swim" the deep end. Terrfying!
Food, glorious food! Is the La Perla Hotel's restaurant kid-friendly, or a culinary disaster waiting to happen?
The restaurant... the eternal struggle. Food is phenomenal. Truly. Pasta that tastes like the angels themselves are making it, fresh seafood that practically jumps off the plate. But with kids? Look: they’re not exactly subtle. My youngest ordered spaghetti and meatballs. It ended up *everywhere*. The tablecloth, the floor, his face, my face... You get the picture. Is there a kids' menu? Yes. Did my kids want anything on it? Nope. They wanted to eat my pasta and then complain that it was "too spicy." Embrace the mess. Bring snacks. Bribes are acceptable. And tip the waiters *generously*. They deserve it.
Activities: What can you actually *do* with kids at La Perla? Is it just lounging by the pool, or is there more?
Okay, beyond the pool, which yes, is a big focus, there's... some stuff. The hotel offers boat trips, which *sound* amazing (and probably are—I'm guessing!). My kids? Seasick within five minutes. There's a little playground, which is a lifesaver when the meltdowns hit. And the beach! Okay, so it's not *directly* in front of the hotel, you gotta take a shuttle. Which, of course, is filled with other people who are *also* dealing with screaming children. But once you're there? Golden sand, clear water. Build sandcastles, collect shells, bury Dad up to his neck (highly recommended). One day, my eldest decided to declare war on a sandcastle that took us two hours to build. Tears. But the beach...it's worth it. Trust me. That feeling when you are looking out at the sea, feeling the sun is great.
The Staff: Are they genuinely helpful, or do they secretly hate kids?
The staff? Honestly, they’re *angels*. I'm not kidding. They're ridiculously patient, even when my kids are, well, being kids. One waiter even taught my son a few basic Italian phrases, which was adorable and really helped break the ice (and helped us get extra bread!). They seemed genuinely happy to help, from the front desk to the cleaning staff. They're the real MVPs of La Perla. Seriously, they are a big reason why, despite the chaos, I'd go back. Tip them well, people.
The Spa: Can I actually escape my kids long enough to enjoy it? (Real talk!)
Okay, the spa… the great white whale of family vacations. You *dream* of it. A massage! A facial! Silence! Peace! But realistic? It depends. I managed to sneak away for an hour, with a lot of planning and a very generous grandma. The massage? Heavenly. The feeling of pure relaxation? Blissful. The knowledge that my kids were probably turning the room upside down and eating all the snacks? Slightly less blissful. So, yes, you *can* do it. But manage your expectations. And bring a lot of earplugs for your post-spa sanity, you'll need it to block out the post-spa "fun".
Overall, would you recommend La Perla for a family vacation? The verdict?
Okay, the big question. Would I recommend La Perla? Yes. Absolutely. With caveats. It's not a perfect, Instagram-filtered paradise. It's messy. It's chaotic. You'll have moments where you question every life choice you've ever made. BUT... the gorgeous views, the delicious food, the genuinely kind staff, and, yes, even the kids' moments of pure, unadulterated joy? That's what makes it worth it. You'll create memories. You'll laugh (eventually). You'll probably cry (maybe a little, from exhaustion). But you'll go home feeling like you've really *lived*. Just… pack extra sunscreen, and maybe a bottle of wine for *you*. YouHotels With Balconys
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