SINA Hotels are the the Domaine de la Romanee-Conti of the Luxury Hotel World by Philip S. Kampe

At a recent event I was introduced to MATILDE BOCCA SALVO di PIETRAGANZILI , known as 'The Grand Lady of Luxury Italian Hotels'. She is currently the Vice-President of the Fine Italian Hotel Group, SINA, known for Historical Hotels and unique Italian Hospitality.
The hotels have been in the Bocca family, the hotels founders since 1958.
Matilde Bocca Salvo di Pietraganzili explained how the 'Historic Hotel Chain' began.
The luxury chain began due to the love Mr. Bocca had with an 18th century villa in Florence, Villa Medici.
The elder, Mr.Bocca was a well traveled man and a true aristocrat who often dreamed about opening a hotel with atmosphere, sentiment and a story to tell.
He wanted his hotels to be more of a 'Home away from Home', a place where personalized care and hospitality defined the philosophy of his concept.
In 1958 his dream became reality.
The first of numerous historical properties was bought by the Bocca family.
Today, the Bocca brothers, led by Bernabo follow their fathers wishes. They only choose locations that they can fall in love with and turn them into hotels of unique charm and refined hospitality.
The SINA hotels have achieved success due to their make-up, much like a bottle of 1869 Chateau Lafitte.
Like wine, when you deal with the best terroir, perfect growing conditions,exquisite varietals and a master winemaker, quality and success fall hand-in-hand.
Each property is unique, carefully managed and staffed with the world's leading authorities on wine, food, design and art.
Lorenzo Vivalda is the general manager of Hotel Bernini Bristol, Rome's prominent SINA property. Mr. Vivalda explained to me that Hotel Bernini Bristol has unique views of Rome, coupled with unrivaled service,
lavish elegance and a balance of the contemporary and classic.
Hotel Bernini Bristol is located in the heart of the Eternal City, steps away from the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish steps. During my last visit to Rome, I realized that the rooms have unique vistas of Rome, especially those with balconies.
The rooftop restaurant, L'Olimpo, has breathtaking views of Rome, as well.
Couple the views with the magnificent wine list and award winning food and you have a hotel that has it all.
I am returning to Rome in February and plan to spend Valentine's Day at the hotel with my lovely wife, Maria, whose family is from the Isle of Capri.
Who could resist Rome on Valentines Day?
Saint Valentine's is the Patron Saint of neighboring Umbria.
Other visits on my journey have included stays at many of the historical SINA properties: Grand Hotel Villa Medici in Florence, Centurian Palace and Palazzo Saint' Angelo sul Canal Grande in Venice, Hotel Brufani Palace in Perugia, Relais Villa Matilde (who is that named after?) Romano Canavese in Torino, The Grayand Hotel De la Ville in Milan, Hotel Astor in Viareggio and Hotel Palace Maria Luigia in Parma.
Great wines and Fantastic food coupled with charming hotels is what special vacations are all about.
The SINA hotel group has awakened my life experiences. 
I suggest that find out for yourself!
Visit www.sinahotels.com to learn more...



PHILIP S.KAMPE
WineFoodTravelArts@yahoo.com