Everything about Alessandra and her beautiful apartment was absolutely perfect. I looked at the pictures and read each review before having request to book. I could not believe that it was even more beautiful than the pictures! Perhaps even more impressive was Alessandra's incredible warmth and hospitality. She effuses "amore" without even trying. Her pre-trip correspondence with me was so thorough and welcoming -- but I never expected her to meet me at the curb when my taxi pulled up! She went out of her way to make a dinner reservation for me at a place she knew would take good care of me, and to book a taxi to the airport in advance with a driver she knows and trusts to arrive promptly (and who surprised me with a special view of Rome en route to the airport!). She took time to make sure I could lock and unlock the doors properly using the ancient keys before leaving me, and even walked with me to a famous café to introduce me to her friends and ensure I would be well-attended.
The bottle of Chianti was such a lovely touch, and I regretted not having the time to enjoy it on my brief visit. The apartment is located in the heart of Rome. Alessandra and I enjoyed a cup of coffee in the apartment as she planned a little walking tour for me of the city, complete with map and guide book. It was a 10-minute walk to the Trevi fountain!
The only thing that could have made my stay more enjoyable would have been for it to be a longer one. It would be worth another trip to Rome just to stay at Alessandra's and get to know her better. And for those who do not speak Italian, please know that her English is perfect!
Grazie, Alessandra!