My parents and I stayed in Silva's flat for three nights, and it was an incredible experience. Silva's friend picked us up and dropped us off at the train station, making it very easy to get settled and ready to explore the city. The flat is located in a very convenient location, within 2-3 blocks of the Policlinico Metro Station.

Silva left us a bottle of wine, which we sipped from the wonderfully romantic private terrace with its sweeping penthouse view of Rome.

The best meal we had in our 12-day cross country trip was at the unassuming seafood restaurant downstairs, right next door to this apartment. The white wine sauce in which the whole fresh fish is roasted is unbelievably simple and delicious.

The only minor hiccup was that the wifi modem was broken during the time we were there. But when you're in the Eternal City, you don't need the internet. Just go out, explore, and enjoy.