Maria's apartment is a perfect space from which to explore Athens. It's located in the Plaka, but not at too busy a spot. There are wonderful eateries nearby (next door is a cafe and gelateria with a chocolate waterfall!! My two young daughters were very impressed). The entrance to the Acropolis is an easy walk.
The home itself is lovely and funky. It's been renovated by the owner, so you don't feel like you're in just another hotel. Rather, it is filled with color and texture and lovely, original paintings, including several done by the owner's father himself.
Speaking of the owner's father, he was our escort and concierge for our stay. He met us at the apartment when we arrived and drove us to the airport (for a nominal fee) when we departed. He was charming and gregarious, and he set our days in Athens off on a perfect note.