We caught a taxi from the airport and called Maurizio as agreed to let him know we were on our way, he was waiting for us in the street when we arrived, and welcomed us with a warm smile and a hearty handshake.

He walked us to a small door on the cobbled street, the type you walk past on this type of holiday and always wonder what is behind it, today we would see, and we wouldn't be disappointed.

Once through the unassuming little entrance we were transported to a different world, one of stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and tranquility.

Maurizio gave us a quick but comprehensive briefing on everything in the apartment and some useful hints and tips for our visit and then left us to it.

The apartment is wonderful, the kitchen has everything you need for a short stay, or even a long stay in fact, including a kettle, so as a brit all we needed was to bring teabags.

There is a wonderful little shop just around the corner form the apartment which sells the most wonderful breads and meats, ice creams and drinks, so if you fancy some snacks, or full on cooking then please visit them as they speak good english and were very friendly, there is also a wonderful farmers market just 5 minutes walk away which happens every Saturday, Maurizio has all the details.

There is very good wifi throughout the flat which helped us keep up with the rain filled weather forecast back home, always good when your somewhere sunny.

The bedroom and ensuite were also very nice, accessed by some beautiful oak stairs, the bed was very comfortable and there were extra pillows and blankets if needed, Maurizio supplied plenty of towels, but you should bring your own toiletries.

The air conditioning was wonderful, it would cool the apartment down in a matter of minutes and then we would turn it off as the apartment seemed to stay cool enough even if it was 34 degrees centigrade outside.

Talking of outside, the lovely little patio garden was very private, but I have to say we didn't sit out there much as it was July and very hot, but we did sit inside with the patio doors open looking at the gardens and sipping wine.

The apartment is so centrally located that you walk to just about any of the major tourist sights within 15 minutes walk, the Coliseum is about 10 minutes walk and Vatican city is about the same, especially if you follow the wonderful riverside walkway and then come up at the sixth bridge (including the first one you cross the river on).

All in all it was a wonderful trip made so much better by the amazing location and tranquility of the apartment, you won’t regret staying here either for a weekend or a week.