Hi Superfrac
I haven't stayed at Villa Sonia but visited Castlemola when we were in Taormina in June. The hotel looked really nice but a room opposite the bus station looked like it could be a downer.
Although Castlemola is lovely it's right up in the hills above Taormina and a right trek up and down unless you are super fit.Buses run regularly and the hotel probably has a shuttle but if you want more action then Taormina is the place.I fell in love with it.Beautiful views everywhere.Great restaurants and bars.
We stayed at the San Domenico Palace which was very special but extremely expensive.
The Taormina area is wonderful go for it.

Thanks for that info mate [sue is asleep at the moment] I really like the sound of this Hotel.Most of the reviews we have read have been very positive.Just lately there has been one quite negative one,typical isn't it .Thanks for your help,Mal.