You MUST stay with Maria if you are coming to Rome. First of all, Maria is the ultimate host. She spent years in the hospitality business and it shows. I am very critical of great hospitality because I have been in the hospitality business in exclusive luxury hotels and restaurants for the last 30 years mostly in Las Vegas and I own 2 restaurants that are built on service and hospitality)
It all started with the AirBNB booking online. I had many questions (because that's just how I'm wired!) and Maria was very quick to respond. I knew that by how she responded, that she was the right person to book with...also, just read her reviews! My family and I (including 2 kids, 5 and 1.5), stayed in this private and Ultra spacious, yet well put together 3 br/ 2.5 ba apartment for a few days before moving on to other parts of Italy. It is located within a few minutes of a major train/metro station (Rome Termini) which is a hub to go anywhere in Italy. The restaurants, bars, shopping, just outside the doors of the apartment and very near it are outstanding.
Upon check-in, Maria graciously greeted us with a smile even though we were 2.5 hours later than scheduled due to delayed flight, etc. She immediately made us feel like we were at home. The apartment itself had everything we needed including the little things like outlet converters and hair dryers which we forgot. Maria was so sweet...she had little cookies for the kids and she even had toys and books that the kids LOVED! This was so important for us, because you can't bring all of the kid's things that they want when you travel around the world. It gave the adults a little down time to enjoy the bread, olive oil, pastries AND WINE that Maria left for us. It was humid outside, but each room was cooled well with individual air conditioning units. All 3 beds were extremely cozy, and even though we didn't do much watching of the television, each room was equipped with one. It was an extremely clean apartment, including the bathrooms. There were plenty of towels and cozy blankets just in case it got cold. I felt like we were staying in a fine hotel with Maria as the head concierge! Before she left us, she gave us lots of information about the surrounding areas in regards to restaurants, shopping, touring, etc.
When we return to Rome, we will certainly be contacting Maria to stay at her home again. The apartment was wonderful, but Maria made it even more memorable. Thank you Maria!
PS. Don't forget to sign her guestbook upon checkout (located in the main bedroom). You'll understand why there are so many glowing reviews!