Stayed here for 2 weeks in late October - early November. The apartment is exactly as pictured. There are plenty of cooking implements, a dishwasher, microwave/oven, and a washer/dryer! Everything you need. Previous guests aren’t kidding when they say you shouldn’t be over 5’ 6” to stay here - I bonked my head hard every time I used the kitchen and I’m 5’ 5”. Guess I’m a slow learner. Taught the neighbors some new English cuss words, I reckon.
I did not know the neighborhood at all and was worried it might be too loud, too scary, too remote from the main sights and pleasures of Rome. I was wrong on all counts. Porta Pia is still a real neighborhood where people live, shop, eat, play, and work. I loved it and felt absolutely safe at all hours. English is not spoken widely here, which is a bonus if you are trying to learn Italian. Lots of great cafes, bars, groceries stores, restaurants and of course the central market at your doorstep. If you don’t know a drop of Italian it’s ok... the locals are friendly and pantomime is always fun.
Public transportation is a piece of cake. Several main bus lines are around the corner, taking you to Termini, Piazza Venezia, the Ghetto, Campo di Fori, Piazza Navonna, the Borghese gardens, Piazza Del Popolo, etc. The Metro stop is ten minutes’ walk (Castro Pretorio). One day I stumbled upon Mussolinni’s villa just a few blocks up the main drag (Via Nomenata). A must -see spot, gorgeous estate and peaceful gardens.
Highly recommended, per the caveats mentioned. Although I never met her (her brother checked me in), Cate is very responsive and answered all of my questions promptly via text. Enjoy!