Sleep in Convent

Q: I have read about a guesthouse located in a former convent in central Florence. Could you find out details and how to book? - Alan Du Toit

A: You are probably referring to the Casa Santo Nome di Gesu, a convent of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary. The ancient 15th century convent-turned-pensione is within walking distance of the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzi Pitti and the Cathedral. It has a number of bedrooms, some with private bathrooms, and the house has a beautiful enclosed garden, a chapel and a TV. Unusually for a pensione like this, the building has a lift, so it can cater for the elderly and disabled. Bed and breakfast rates range from 33 Euros for a single room, 60 Euros for a double and 95 Euros for a triple. No smoking is allowed and there is a curfew from 11pm in winter and 11.30pm in summer until 6.30am. Miss the nightly deadline and you won't be able to get into your room until morning. For further details check out the www.www.fmmfirenze.it website. (9/1/11)