To my great fortune, the Hilton next door to the Hellenia, where my conference was being held, was fully booked. The Hellenia is beautiful to see, inside and out, quietly elegant, with an atmosphere of calm and gentility. The quiet extended to the room: Mine was a double with two balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the handsome terrace/pool area below. I slept well and enjoyed the atmosphere. The breakfast could have been a bit more creative.
Two things prevent me from giving a five-star review, however. I found the front desk personnel to be stand-offish, and seemingly preoccupied with more important business; this is in marked contrast to the overall friendliness and helpfulness of Sicilians in general. And despite the claim of offering wireless connectivity, there was no internet service – wireless or wired – during my five-day stay at the Hellenia. "Is broken" was the only response I received. I asked whether it would be repaired soon. The reply was a shrug.