It is impossible to simply read a review of anyone and get a sense for how gracious that person really is in person but I will give this a try. Long before I met Birgitta she was very helpful in giving me tips on things to do in Rome and things to be aware of...museum times, great exhibits happening in the coming week and such. Once I arrived I was met by one of the most gracious people I have ever met. Birgitta met me at her incredibly well appointed apartment and was exceedingly personable. She explained the neighborhood to me, got out a map for me so I could see different routes to places of interest. She also mentioned that Raphael is said to have lived in her building, while his mistress supposedly lived across the street.

She also has put out a comprehensive book on Rome on the coffee table for her guests. Her kitchen was actually stocked with some essentials which I thought was so thoughtful! She is a really lovely person to have as your first impression of Rome!
I loved the neighborhood and would highly recommend it especially Sora Lella restaurant on Isola Tiberina, one of the best meals I have ever had in my life. And then there is the ghetto in Trastevere which is amazing. I went to Trattoria da Teao which was incredible.