BE AWARE BEFORE YOU BOOK. We had some serious issues even though Roberto was a nice guy who tried hard to be a good host, helping with the luggage when arriving and departing and arranging storage at a hotel near the train station while we finished our last day in Palermo. HOWEVER, we would not have rented the apartment had he disclosed -- or any review even mentioned -- several MAJOR shortcomings. There is no hot water available in the kitchen, ever, and you can't flush toilet paper. The bed is hard as a rock, but comfort may vary based on personal preferences. The lack of hot water and inability to flush toilet paper but had to put soiled tissue in a small trash can (let that soak in for a minute as you spend 3 nights in that situation) would have been a deal killer had we just known. In addition, prospective guests must be aware of a limitation of access to the shower. By Italian standards the shower itself is almost roomy, you can turn around in it! BUT getting in the shower will be a challenge if not impossible for large people. The shower entrance is only 14 1/2 inches wide and it is a sliding door so there is no flexibility or extra give. Large or obese people be forewarned that you won't be able to shower if you are more than 14 1/2 inches wide. I hope this review does provide a warning to future potential guests. Yes, it has a great location in the old city, but there are other choices which may not have these shortcomings.