The pictures for Carmen and Chris' place looked great and the location was superb - surely it couldn't meet expectations. Well it did and then some!!! First, as other guests have commented: location. location. location. It can't be beat. Piazza Navona is spectacular but wears off quickly. That's when the wonders of this place kick in - the side streets are teaming with life, Vatican City is an easy walk, Campo d Fiori is an easy walk, and the Jewish Quarter is an easy walk. To get to the Colosseum and Spanish steps take a little more doing, but the proximity to the river set it apart. There are decent restaurants nearby (including 3 very tasty, not too expensive but slightly touristed spots) but a 10 min walk gets you to where the locals dine.
The place itself exceeded expectations. The pictures looked lovely but how often are those painted in the best possible light? Well Carmen and Chris' are true to form. Don't let the 5 steps into what seems like a dark alley to the front door dissuade you. In fact, if you head down Teatro Pace another 50 feet, it is another great neighborhood with great restaurants, the best gelato and a new tiramisu restaurant. Once in the place, it has everything you need and my mother/sister are still talking about the old world charm. Carmen is a great hostess with prompt responses and you can tell she really cares. We'd definitely stay here again if we are back in Rome!