This has been my best Airbnb experience in every respect. Sebastiano was prompt in his communication, he spoke English well enough that there was no miscommunication, he was a very attentive host and made himself available at all times. When I arrived at the appointed meeting place at the scheduled time he was waiting at the curb to assist with the parking. After helping me get free parking he drove me to the apartment in his own vehicle. This transformed a situation in which there was a lot of potential for stress into a great feeling of relief and relaxation. It got the visit off to a very good start.
When I saw the apartment I felt that it was even better than the pictures. Sebastiano and his wife put a lot of attention into the small details, even going so far as to provide fresh oranges for the orange juicer that is in the kitchen! The place is newly restored and does not have odd smells or idiosyncrasies. The bed is comfortable, with plenty of electrical outlets nearby for charging devices. The fireplace flue worked perfectly and firewood was provided. Laundry soap was provided for the washing machine, along with a rack for drying clothes. There is even an outdoor sink for hand washing clothes.
The apartment was very clean and just as described. The terraces are fantastic, with views of the ocean, city and sky. The apartment is well lit, with many indoor lighting options at night and lots of sunlight during the day. The kitchen is clean and well equipped.
The location is excellent. It is very close to a shuttle bus stop, restaurants and the sea, and less than five minutes walk from Piazza Duomo. The street is not as quiet as some of the Ortigia streets where cars can't drive but it was not excessively noisy. Other tenants in the building are quiet.
I really enjoyed my stay there. It was, in fact, so nice right there at the apartment that it required extra motivation to leave and go explore Ortigia. (Some extra motivation was found in the form of above average gelato sold at a place called 'gusto' ) I really hope to come back and stay here again. It is a place where you can really feel like you're on vacation, and Sebastiano and his wife are conscientious hosts. They provide a guide book and detailed maps and directions.