We have been to Rome several times but this was our first time self-catering (although we've self-catered many times elsewhere in Italy). We chose this flat because it had those 3 ingredients vital for a good stay: location, outside space, & air-conditioning. The latter two were vital because our week was hot! The location is unbeatable, especially if you are new to Rome since you are right within the historic centre and most of the obligatory sights are within walking distance; it's lovely to stroll out after your evening meal and enjoy the Campo/Farnese and/or stroll over the Corso to the Navona or Rotunda.

We found Emiliano very responsive to our emails and got rapid answers to all of our queries. He arranged taxis to and from Fiumicino, which took much of the stress out of what was a family holiday with our two kids. The flat itself is very well-equipped for an Italian residence - it even had a kettle - something we've usually found lacking - so we were able to have our English tea. Importantly, kitchen knives were sharp (something we've also found lacking elsewhere) so cooking wasn't a problem, and the oven, hob etc all worked fine. Many Italian flats use rather old-fashioned demand boilers and this one is no different: when we had a problem getting hot-water, Emiliano responded very quickly, came 'round, and showed us the "trick" necessary to get it to work; all was fine.

As other reviews have noted, yes the flat is up a lot of stairs but that's the price you pay for having a top floor location (noone creaking around over your head) and great views from the terraces - Michelangelo's Farnese cornice is visible from the back terrace; we always rent top-floor. The flat is well-proportioned, the TV and wi-fi worked fine, and the air-con was very effective. The smaller bedroom does lack air-con, but can be cooled via the living room unit. Leaving windows open is risky because, as everywhere in Italy it seems, the mosquitos will enter and make a meal of you. There is a lot of hubbub on the terraces, especially at the front because it's just metres from Campo De'Fiori, but the double glazing is very effective so we were able to sleep fine once windows were closed and we were not disturbed. The vibrancy of this area is one of its main attractions so don't expect it to be quiet outside.

The only real downside for us was that the fabulous food market of 20 years ago has apparently degenerated into a tourist trap; there are as many stalls selling pretty pasta and souvenirs as there are local produce. For example, there used to be several fish stalls but these seem to have vanished? However, remember you are just minutes from Trastevere via Ponte Sisto - when we ate out or did a "big" food shop, we did it there...and the cafes are much cheaper.

All in all, highly recommended.