My best experience with an Airbnb thus far, so I feel like I owe a lengthy review. It is a truly beautiful apartment, great care has obviously been taken in its decoration and design, and the hosts were very communicative and friendly. They have even authored their own extensive and well written guidebook on local attractions and cuisine, which we found to be very useful. Even with all of the lodging options in Naples that are relatively inexpensive to Americans, I think it would be difficult to find better value for a place to stay.
As I was booking this place, I wondered why an apartment with such beautiful pictures had ratings a bit lower than most stays in Naples. Now that I have stayed there I think I can respectfully address some common complaints I see in reviews:
-It is true that getting to the apartment from much of the rest of the city requires a walk up a decently sized hill, and one of the lofts requires the use of a ladder. I could very well see this being an issue for older, or less active people. As for myself, I really enjoyed the exercise and appreciated the view that the elevation provided. Some reviewers have said that the ladder seemed unsafe, which in my opinion is untrue. It is a little wobbly but definitely secure in its position.
-Some reviewers say that the area is unsafe. I think the biggest risk is walking amongst the cars and bikes that squeeze their way through tight streets, more so than the danger posed by people who live there. I feel safer walking around the Spanish Quarter at night than I would in much of NYC, and nearly all of Chicago. The reality is that Naples is not as wealthy as many Western European cities, which is reflected in its people and urban landscape. To me, the Spanish Quarter feels very authentic to Naples and stays lively from early in the morning to late at night. There are numerous bars and restaurants to check out with prices shockingly low relative to the US, and it was extremely easy to strike up a conversation with just about anyone.
A couple minor issues with the heat and wifi arose while we were there but they were dealt with promptly. Would definitely stay there again if I go back to Naples with 2-4 people. Perfect place for someone in their 20s/30s, or if you are active and want to stay in a very authentic area and apartment.