We visited the Hotel Helios for a long weekend in September - 3 nights and would like to say straight away that this was booked because the Manager of the Hotel, Annalisa is a friend of a friend. Our friend had warned us that th Hotel was a basic three star place, but clean and friendly.

I have to say that this was spot on. The hotel was great for us and the room had everything we needed including a hair drier. The shower was powerful with plenty of hot water. The bed was comfy and there was plenty of storage. In fact it was much better maintained than many UK hotels we have stayed at for much more money. We had a small balcony and a distant sea view. The best thing was that the room was immaculately clean and the maids were really good about coming back later to clean after we'd had a lie in. Everyone in the hotel was really friendly too and on our last night we sat outside singing and dancing with the Italian guests!

The breakfast was good - all the usual rolls, pastries etc plus great coffee and on our last morning it was made available half an hour early for us, so we could get to the airport.

We thought the location was brilliant - just a few hundred metres from the beach front and the same distance from cafes, bars and restaurants. For me the only downside was the lack of a pool, as I prefer a pool to the beach. The beach is nice enough - just beware the cost of sun loungers and parasols, which you book and pay for at the beach cafes - we paid 19 eurs for two sunbeds and a parasol for an afternoon!

Milano Marittima is a sophisticated, elegant resort with designer shops (and not a British Lager Lout in sight), but lots of affordable places to eat and drink. We particularly enjoyed a pizza at the Peter Pan Restaurant. Lots of places serve sort of pannini type sandwiches for lunch. Just be aware that English isn't spoken anywhere, so you will need your phrase book and a smile!

Milano Marittma is just a 10 minute walk from the old town of Cervia, which has a harbour, beautiful cathedral and square plus some fabulous ice cream shops. We went to Roberto's amazing restaurant (can't remember the name, but Annalisa will book it for you) and had one of the best dinners ever!

We flew into Rimini and waited an hour for a taxi, which then cost us 80 euros. I believe that Bologna is nearer. Either way I think we would have been better off hiring a small car and would do this next time despite the maniacs on the roads! Otherwise pre book a cab.

On the whole we loved the place and would not hesitate to go back.