First of all Simonetta is a remarkable host. She warmly greeted us after having been in easy electronic communication as we sorted out our plans, and provided us all the information you could possibly ask for.. She iwas incredibly understanding when we accidentally set off her apartment alarm. When I got sick and we weren't sure how to juggle everything, Simonetta took me to the doctor and followed up frequently to make sure I was okay. We are all so thankful for her kindness and generosity.
Now to Simonetta's funky place. It is in a wonderfully lively area, with people reveling in nearby restaurants, bars, and cafes. Each night at the Piazza five minutes away, children played (included ours) with light-up toys, adults gathered around the fountain, musicians performed songs in Italian and English, and artists sold their paintings. It all felt like one big party. Despite all the action, her place is remarkably quiet, and her patio a lovely respite from the whirl outside.
It's really everything you could ask for if you want to stay in a location where the energy is focused more on community and eating/drinking/being merry then being in the center of the historic part of the city (though you can certainly walk there in 15-30 minutes). It felt very much like you're part of young, creative Rome, and that was very exciting.