Paola was such a welcoming and helpful host, and even worked hard with us to try to help extend our stay at her place after our flight was unexpectedly cancelled! The apartment was clean and welcoming, the king-sized and single beds incredibly comfortable, and it was a luxury to have access to a free washing machine and a kitchen (stove/fridge/microwave/kettle). My favorite gelato place in Florence is just around the corner, and the kitchen window overlooks lovely gardens. It was really nice to be out of the touristy sections of town, and we were still within a 15-25 minute walk of the major sights. It could be a bit noisy at night if you want to keep the windows open (there's a park and restaurant nearby), but by no means unbearable, and it became quite enjoyable to fall asleep to the prattling of the locals! :)