I had an absolutely delightful week in Simona's adorable apartment. Everything was clean and neat and very comfortable, including the pull-out sofa bed. Simona sent a car and driver to pick me up at the airport for less than a taxi would cost and also arranged for a ride back at the end of the week. She met me at the door and handed over keys for the 4 doors, explained a few things, and gave me her phone and email address in case I needed anything.
The old building is a charmer, with a courtyard full of plants and the sound of a fountain. I heard some neighbors in other apartments come and go, but overall the building is very quiet. The best part for me was the windows in my apartment that have a view to die for of the red roofs and the bell tower and the tiny cobblestone street below. I was utterly charmed by the church bells that pealed at various times of day and the birdsong at dawn that heralded the other sounds of the city's awakening. Because of the very adequate refrigerator and kitchen, I was able to have leisurely breakfasts in front of the window before striking out for the day. I ate 3 delicious dinners at the little restaurant 2 doors down from "my" building, a blessing on evenings when I felt I couldn't walk another step. The neighborhood is busy during the daytime and in the evening, but pleasantly so....people chatting over dinner or while walking along the street. Overnight all was quiet. The larger neighborhood is very easy to like, with a little market around the corner, a takeaway place for excellent cheese, meats, olives and other goodies, many restaurants, and nice little shops for antiques, clothes, art or other goods. The Piazza Navona is a 10-minute walk away with a taxi stand, lots of restaurants, street goods, and lots of activity both day and night. This is a wonderful little apartment in a safe and charming part of the city that is so nice to come home to after exploring the rest of Rome. I am already eager to go back. Thank you, Simona!