Maria Chiara is an extraordinary host. Not only is the flat even more beautiful that it appears in the photos, she has provided so many thoughtful extras - all beautifully designed. It really is spotlessly clean, quiet, perfect internet, views across a huge courtyard, great towels, crisp sheets, detergent for the washing machine,...it was hard to leave.

Her wonderful introduction to the flat included maps and brochures to the latest art happenings and festivals going on, and she has created a guide for local restaurants and shops, and we took full advantage of all her recommendations. We've visited Bologna before, but this trip, and this beautiful flat, secured our love for the city. Yes, as she noted, the best coffee is at Aroma. A dinner of our dreams was at Al Osteria Bottega. We bought beautiful prosciutto, pasta, cheeses, etc. La Salumeria. We dressed in workout clothes and walked the longest portico in the world to the San Luca church, atop a hill with gorgeous views. We joked that we were on the Maria Chiara tour - and we loved every minute.

Yes, there are the 'essentials', but the kitchen was stocked beyond our wildest dreams, including bread, milk, eggs, water, juices, yogurt, cakes...and of course there was plentiful olive oil, vinegars, salt, sugar, spices. Maria Chiara, thank you. We will absolutely return. As soon as possible.