Having Simone as a host was just wonderful from start to finish -- he answered every message promptly and thoroughly, and was so easy to work with :-) And his "Simon's Suite" was just as nice as described, complete with so many nice little extras that he so thoughtfully provided -- fresh flowers, a bottle of prosecco, and even a cell phone with his number on it, in case we had questions or an emergency arose. (We actually DID call when we couldn't figure out how to operate the washer :-D ) Although we didn't use it, I loved the upstairs loft -- this would be a perfect place for two couples or for a couple with older children (the spiral staircase might be a bit much for little ones).
The apartment was spotlessly clean and tidy, and the location was just perfect -- close to Termini, and with many buses right at the corner. One delightful surprise was the street market that popped up each day right outside: We could just pop outside to buy fresh fruit and anything else we needed (even clothes and shoes, although we didn't need those :-D ) And right next door is a bakery, where we bought bread, pastries and what just might be the BEST pizza I've ever had -- all super-inexpensive! The folks in the local restaurants on the street were all very friendly and welcoming, and on our last night there, we dined at Barbablu, which Simone had recommended -- great food, HUGE portions! Another excellent place was Babbo's, half a block away, on the corner of Montebello and Volturno.
Simone was there to welcome us when we arrived, and explain how the door locks and other items worked. He also gave us info on great places to eat, how to get to the nearest supermarket (which we did immediately!), tips on navigating the Metro and bus system, etc.
The only unexpected glitch was the music from the bar across the street and the restaurant downstairs and to the right -- it went on well into the night, and since the weather was beautiful, all of their doors and windows were open. Fortunately, we had earplugs, and once we popped them in, it was fine, so not a big deal :-)
I'm hoping to return next year with my daughters, and would definitely stay at "Simon's Suite" again ... if it's available! :-D Looks like this apartment is great demand, and now I know why!