Marlène was very attentive to our arrival in Roma and made the arrangements for a very pleasant taxi driver to pick us up from the airport. I wasn’t looking forward to finding my way by the very comprehensive directions that Marlène, had made available for those that are concerned about expense, and after an early flight, I was just interested in being installed in to the apartment.
Marlène, had explained that she couldn’t be there to greet us but the arrangements for taxi, caretaker, communications and a personal telephone call, was a very adequate introduction of the knowledge and the contacts needed for our stay.
In short Marlène, and those helping her, made us feel very welcome, providing a few necessary ‘goodies’ to tide us over until we could complete our first shop, which we confidently went out to do in the afternoon. We did meet Marlène later, and she made all appropriate offers to help and arrange for any specific sight-seeing that we had in-mind, and although not taken up, this was very much appreciated.
The neighbourhood was picturesque and Roman, with small businesses in hidden alcoves on narrow cobbled streets, that suddenly erupted into plazas with monuments, statues, ancient buildings, restaurants, bars and cafes. We found the ambience and general demeanour unthreatening, and enjoyed pleasant strolls, even during dusk and night time. It would be true, that for an enterprising and adventurous visitor, most of the main Roman attractions are in easy walking distance of this central location.
I believe the description and listing is very representative of the apartment and surrounding district and we certainly enjoyed our time in Marlène’s ‘cosy little nest’, including the courtesy paid to us by her help and assistance. We managed to utilise the apartment’s facilities with no problems and found it comfortable for our daily use, and quiet during the night hours when we needed to relax after a long day. I would recommend Marlène’s listing to anyone who is more than a little adventurous, and wanted to experience more of Roma, than the atmosphere of an isolated hotel room.