The Palazzo Montecasino is part of the Montecasino entertainment centre, incorporating a casino, aviary, cinemas, shops, theatres, restaurants and bars. The whole shebang has been built in a Tuscan style (the Gauteng lot really do love their themes), however, the Mon49rntecasino manages to carry it off without appearing overly kitsch. The 246 rooms are simple, elegant and stylish, kitted out with all the toys international travellers have come to expect. The Medeo restaurant is, unsurprisingly, Tuscan and uses herbs taken from their own garden. While the hotel is connected to the ‘entertainment for the masses’ complex the Palazzo retains a tranquil air, largely brought about by the stunning gardens complete with a vast ornamental koi pond and swimming pool from which to escape the heat of the sun. Despite its imposing and rather sophisticated grandeur the mood is relaxed and seems a world away from the centre of town.