Shuo's place is a good alternative if you're visiting Rome on a budget. The location is not far from the metro and though the neighbourhood is not pretty, it felt safe at all times.
Shuo was always willing to help and answer my questions, though it was not always easy to understand his English.
Highlights:
- The bed was super-comfy.
- The room was very clean.
- Shuo gave me the flexibility that I needed to leave my luggage before the check-in hour and collect it later than the check-out.
Downsides:
- The kitchen didn't look so clean (but I hardly used it, so I didn't mind).
- You may want to bring your own shampoo. I was told that the handwash also worked as shampoo, but the label said no such thing.