My boyfriend and I stayed at Ekaterina's charming place just off the Piazze di Santa Maria in Trastavere for 5 nights this August. The location could not have been more perfect and the value was superb. Each morning, we woke up to espresso and the sounds of the city coming to life. Each morning, we heard laughter and night life outside our windows. (In some cases, this meant a bit more background noise than we are used to, but overall quite expected for being in a busy area of the neighborhood.)

Being the silly Americans we are, it did not even occur to us that this unit might not have air conditioning. At first, we were concerned but quickly realized there is a ubiquitous breeze moving through the apartment keeping it cool. Especially at night, having the windows open to people watch and hear the live music coming from the square was magical. During the day, it provided practical air flow.

Check-in necessitated an in-person meeting so our passports could be copied for compulsory city tax purposes. We met with Ekaterina's right-hand-woman, Valentina, for this. She was a delight and completely patient with us after fumbling our arrival by way of a series of transportation gaffs. (I recommend taking the train from the airport straight to Trastavere - skip the bus!)

The apartment had everything we needed, including an iron, fan, and espresso machine and was consistent with the description listed. The location was perfect with quick access to the river, fabulous and affordable restaurants frequented by the locals, and nearby historical sights but far from the mainstream tourist traffic.

Ekaterina was hospitable, has a strong command of English, and responds proactively. Highly recommend.