I stayed at Irene’s place for 7 nights and it exceeded my expectations. I was delighted and would like to stay there again. It accentuated to my ‘Italian and Tuscan experience’.
I stayed is a single room in a house which dates back to the 16th century! It was an added bonus to be staying in a building with so much history and character. Apparently it was part of a monastery. The ceilings have the original hand carved wooden beams. The furniture in the room is hand crafted antique joinery dating back to early 19th century. I took photos to show my friends – I was that impressed! I luxuriated in simply being in the property and contemplating the history behind it. Money cannot buy that kind of experience.
Location was perfect for me. I did not want a city centre property because I assumed it would be too busy. I need a place where I can jog uninterrupted in the early morning for an hour. I was not disappointed by the location but was actually elated because it is upstream from the city centre along the Arno River. The river bank was only a hundred metres from Irene’s front door and presented stupendously magnificent scenery which fairy tales are made of. I saw the beams of the sunrise forming a radiant crown over the hilltops in the background which were clothed in upright cypresses presenting a deep luscious green hue in the brief moments of the dawn.
Again, many photos were taken to impress my friends and make my enemies envious! There was a luxury hotel on the river bank and no doubt those people paid a significantly larger amount than me for the same view!
Irene’s flat has a spacious kitchen. The bathroom was excellent.
The city centre was a maximum 40 minutes by bus including waiting time. The bus stop is only 20 metres from her front door. I could not hear any street sounds even with the window open. The neighbourhood is very quiet. There was the added bonus of a huge supermarket only 5 minutes walk from the property.
Irene made me feel extremely welcome. She was flexible with the checking in time. I arrived feeling extremely fatigued because my train was 70 minutes late, leaving me waiting in the boiling hot sun. She gave me fridge cold melon and water to help revive me. She made me feel very welcome and I enjoyed her company which added to the experience.
She always had a cheerful disposition and was more than helpful with tourist information on making best use of my time. The room was spotlessly clean and she supplied fresh towels.
Anybody who gives Irene less than a glowing review would have to be mentally disturbed. I wish her the best.