Hotel Plaza E De Russie
C. Italy: Tuscany: Viareggio
Located on "the strand" across the street from but facing the wide white sand beach, the Plaza e De Russie is a beautiful resort hotel. Originally built in 1870, the hotel was closed for eight years and completely renovated. With a splendid marble-floored lobby lit by Murano chandeliers, gleaming hardwood floors, double doors to all guestrooms to insure quiet and privacy, and tile bathrooms, it is a well maintained property.

There are three categories of double rooms, but JDB recommends the deluxe double rooms as they are very reasonably priced. For families, the hotel does not have connecting rooms, but there are three very nice junior suites which can accommodate up to four persons. During the summer, the hotel offers a private beach and pool, and nightly piano bar from May through October.

The hotel's restaurant is truly outstanding (the chef is recognized as one of the best in Tuscany). In warm weather, dining is outside on the rooftop terrace facing the sea. The hotel has an agreement with a garage for clients' cars (a fee applies). The hotel, owned by the same family that owns the Hotel Byron in Forte dei Marmi, is open year round. Winter weekends during Viareggio's famous Carnival are great fun and must be booked well in advance.