Barbara’s apartment could not be better situated, right on the Campo de’ Fiori. If you’re a light sleeper bothered by noise, it’s not for you. People Party in the square at the multitude of restaurants till well into the night, and then the market noises start fairly early every day of the week. The windows in the apartment block out most of the noise, if you keep them shut. But if you’re like me, and enjoy city noise and an open window, you will have no issues.
Barbara is a great host. So friendly and helpful. She arranged a private car for us from the airport which was a really great deal at only a few euro more than a taxi. She was there waiting to great us, with many suggestions on local establishments, some of which offered a discount if you mentioned her name. We tried most of them. Sometimes you had to mention her name a few times, but we did get the discounts. All the places were decent local eateries. Not the best I’ve had in Rome, but solid good food. The not to miss spot is the salami shop downstairs. Makes the whole trip worth it, in and of itself.
Having stayed at a number of places now, I can say that this one is among the cleanest... and I am very particular. Towels and sheets were crisp and white. Furniture was comfortable and quality. The kitchens was well stocked with basic supplies which is really helpful when you’re only staying a few days. There were extra pillows and blankets in the closet, but no sheets to put on them. I asked Barbara for an extra pillow case and she brought it over that same morning.
The building itself dates from the 1500’s according to Barbara, and as a result, there are certain things you should expect. There is no lift. The entry way to the building, while well secured with modern means, is nothing to write home about. Something you might expect to see in a two or three star hotel in Europe.
The apartment’s main room is very pleasant, with high ceilings, grand windows, and a comfortable modern kitchen and space. The master is large and airy, with a four poster comfortable bed and the same large windows. The master bath is a typical add on bathroom in an ancient European apartment. Raised, small, and with funky lighting. However everything works well, and I had no issues with the small space, as I’m a fairly small person. My mother couldn’t fit comfortably into the corner shower. The second bedroom has two single beds and no windows, so is a bit of a tomb, but the beds were solid and comfortable, and the room was well appointed for what it was. The main bathroom had a walk in rainfall shower and was much larger and modern amenities. By hotel standards, the interior of the apartment would be a four star.
Overall the place was really conveniently located with a few minutes walking distance from Navona, Trevi, lots of shopping, restaurants and bars galore. I’ve been to Rome before, and this was my favorite neighborhood to stay by far. So even though, the building is a three star, and the apartment is a four star, the location makes this place a five star find in my book.