We were very happy to stay at the Grande Hotel et Des Palmes. Walking through the front door you are transported to a by-gone era of elegant hotels visited by droves of people on the Grand Tour. While Palermo is on the outside rough and gritty, the Grande Hotel ed Des Palmes is refined and oh so hospitable. We were placed in a very beautiful suite that fronted the Via Roma, but the sounds of the street could not be heard within. Our suite featured a foyer, sitting room, bedroom, and extravagant bath -- one of the best showers we have ever encountered. The weather outside was sweltering, but inside we were as cool as cucumbers. Breakfast was in a grand covered courtyard, used in the evenings as a bar. The morning spread was extensive with pastries, cereals, breads, hott offerings, fresh juices and even granita! While the cappuccino wasn't the best, we did very much enjoy our stay and we will most definitely return.