We just returned from a week at Paola's apartment and our stay was wonderful. We couldn't imagine a better stay in Florence. One night at dinner we were chatting with a couple next to us from England. They were staying at the St. Regis. When we described our apartment, they were jealous of us!

The apartment is immaculately decorated, designed in a very interested way to fit the space, and filled with interesting modern art Paola has collected. This doesn't feel like a vacation rental. It feels like staying in a friend's apartment.

The apartment has plenty of space, more than enough for my wife and I. The bathrooms were gorgeous. The living room comfortable, and most of all the terrace wonderful to enjoy views of the Tuscan countryside as well as the Duomo. It almost didn't feel real. And as someone who has done a lot of traveling in Europe and had some hard beds (and used to a soft American bed), this bed was great.

The location is excellent. Close to the market. Everything within a 15 minute walk. While all of Florence has a lot of tourists, we found the area to be a reprieve from the touristy areas around the Duomo. There are also supermarkets and convenient stores nearby. It is also an easy walk from the train station.

Most of all Paola is an excellent host. She made us feel at home. Was easy to communicate on email. And she really wants you to have a great time. Nothing is too much trouble and you can tell she enjoys sharing her city and her home. She made sure everything you would need is there and more. Everything from laundry detergent for the washer and dryer to olive oil.

I would certainly stay again. We loved this being our home for a week in Florence.