Host communication was great. Location-wise you can walk straight into the Vatican, either the museum entrance or basilica - both are right out the front door. Two of the bedrooms have a nice view of the duomo as well. There is a persistent odor in two of the bedrooms that seems to be coming from the plumbing. I had read about it in other reviews and being that I am not terribly sensitive to such things it did not bother me. From reading other reviews it seems that the hosts would come and spray and whatnot if you ask, but I am sensitive to perfumes and candles and the like, so as-is was just fine for me. If you're worried about it after reading some of the other reviews, consider for yourself how sensitive you are to such things. It really is not overwhelming whatsoever, but it is worth noting that there is something present from the old plumbing. Again, it did not bother me. Out of six of us, no one was over offended by it. We all fit comfortably in the apartment and it is very close to a subway stop. All and all - a very good value.