Maria's place is the charming and artistic place the pictures show. Although the view is more amazing in person. we loved eatimg on the balcony. Maria had to sofa bed made up, a super plus for us. The building is a well kept security building, though its not in the more graffiti free area that tourist spots are in. Her neighborhood has a grocery store, restaurants, gelato, and is across from (overlooks) a boys and girls center. The days we visited they were having a fun week with music, a talent show, contests, activities. We got to see and hear first hand the music, dances, games, and culture that Italian kids enjoy. It was awesome and we felt lucky to see more than just historical sites.