Thank you to Flavio and Frederico , the Space Ideas property managers, for a nice stay at this centrally-located apartment just a few blocks from the Coliseum in Rome. They were kind to provide a welcome gift and helped with booking a taxi to the airport. The apartment was exactly as pictured and very spacious, however, both bedrooms face the extremely busy Via Cavour street, with four lanes of charter and tourist buses, motorcycles, cars and party-goers at surrounding bars until about 2:30am. While this is not unexpected of a large city, if you are accustomed to sleeping in a quiet suburban environment, it will be a change. Additionally, the remainder of the building houses apartment units and hotels, which you will pass by on the stairs, meaning that there are many people coming and going at all hours. (Side note: the apartment is on the fourth floor, but there is a nice elevator!) Re location, the apartment is in the Monti area, which has two great restaurants streets, namely Via Panisperna and Via Urbana (our favorite). For some recommendations, see the Romewise blog, which was invaluable!
Unfortunately we found the kitchen amenities a bit lacking and had trouble making breakfast. There was no American coffeemaker or toaster (there was a silver espresso maker and panini toaster), and the only condiments provided were a few packages of salt and sugar. Be prepared that if you plan to cook, you will need to buy everything. Additionally, the provided toilet paper is whatever remains on the two rolls from the previous guest. When I asked for more, Flavio said that I would need to purchase it myself but he could bring some if needed. While this is somewhat arbitrary, it speaks to the apartment being run as a business. I've stayed in a dozen different Airbnbs and have never had to ask about toilet paper before (this was a four-night stay in Rome for four people).
Overall, the photos of the apartment are extremely accurate but inside it just didn't feel as luxurious as I'd hoped. The busy street was offset by the attractions, restaurants and shopping nearby. If I had to do it again, I think I would have booked a quieter place a bit outside the central downtown district to have a nice oasis from the city, but it all depends what you're looking for. If you'd prefer to be near all the sights, this is absolutely for you!