My trip to Lecce was an idea I had over a year ago. I got the hint from a friend. However, I was clueless about the hows and the whens etc etc. Once I decided to pack my things and go visit, I came across the add from Anna. Everything looked very nicely so I decided to give it a try, the price was reasonable and I thought of me needs as being basic (nice place to stay, close by everything). I finally was overwhelmed by the city and its surroundings.
HOWEVER: Anna played a determinant role in my stay. First of all and out of nowwhere, she offered to pick me up from the station, which was incredibly generous from her. She and her husband drove me to the appartment, which was close by (15min walk, totally doable if you have the right luggage, still, they insisted). Once we got there, we spoke in mix of Italian, Spanish and English. Anna knows her stuff. The appartment was super clean, the fridge had sodas and water and fruit in it, there were croissants and cookies, coffee, tea, well everything.
Then she and her husband gave me tips on where to eat (Pizzeria at Porta Napoli, for example) and also gave me hints on where to explore around Lecce (Gallipoli, nice beach). What I also found very helpful is that she was available via whatsapp all the time, just in case I had any questions. Wifi at the appartment was super fast, I did some work with no problem at all.
But that is just half the story. The location of the appartment is simply amazing. You walk 5 minutes and you are at the Piazza Duomo, the main square. It is an incredible place for starting the "conquest" of Lecce. I was astonished on how well located it was. I found myself doing shopping and just going back to the appartment to leave my stuff and then carry on. I even had time to take naps and cook timely because I was still in the middle of the city.
I also discovered, that the bus (Salento in Bus, in the summer) that leaves to the beaches was 8min away from the appartment, right off Porta Rudiane, and this was super convenient, as I made a day trip to Gallipoli and coming back I was left back just around the corner of the appartment.
I had a wonderful time in Lecce, and most of that, I owe to Anna, for being such an amazing host.
Grazie Anna, I hope people keep coming to your place and to visit Lecce!