When we arrived, Silvia's mother showed us around the apartment, including the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. The kitchen was stocked with croissants, juice boxes, espresso and energy drinks that we could enjoy. The room was neat, with two sets of towels for my girlfriend and I, and with a fan to keep off the worst of the summer heat.

The location was great, about 10 minutes walk from the main train terminal, and a perfect spot to launch from. There were also other well-mannered guests with whom we had the pleasure of exchanging tips in the mornings and evenings.

I expect that I will be in touch with Silvia the next time that I come back to Rome.