THE HOST:
I was in Florence as part of my honeymoon and we were glad to have chosen Luca's spanking NEW apartment! He was highly responsive to all emails and SMSes before we arrived and was prompt to receive us when we arrived. He introduced the apartment to us and also went through all the attractions and necessary locations in Florence on a map he provided, even including some of his favorite places. A really great touch was a little file with introductions of his favorite restaurants, gelaterias and pizza places! It was really really helpful!

THE APARTMENT:
Luca's apartment is as good as it looks in the pictures! You have to see it to believe it. Everything you need is included, from towels, basic toiletries, kitchen utensils, house cleaning equipment and much more. The apartment is tastefully decorated, the furniture chosen is comfortable and pleasing to the eye and all the fixtures are really done well.

I'm fussy about toilets, so it was great that he had not 1, but 2 spacious, airy and fully equipped toilets with all the necessary amenities . and even a washing machine in 1 of them.

There's a balcony on the upper floor, along with the 2nd room. The balcony is pretty cosy, with an outdoor table, chair and umbrella perfect for a relaxing breakfast.

The only little issue we had was with the keys to the main door of the complex, which isn't within Luca's control. It's a little stiff and you'll need to get used to the little shaking that you need to turn the key. But that's a really minor issue, but still worth pointing out.

THE LOCATION:
The apartment is very centrally located, steps away from Piazza Santa Maria Novella and lots of goodies. It is about 5-8mins walk from the train station, 5-10 mins walk from the Duomo/ San Lorenzo Central Market/ Accademia and probably 15mins walk from Palazzo Vecchio/ Loggia area. The location is absolutely perfect, because it is out of the main madness area of the duomo, but still within walking distance of everything else.

As the apartment is facing the one-way road, you will experience a little noise from vehicle and human traffic when seated in the living and dining room during the day and early evening (you'll probably be out anyway at those times.. haha). But you won't hear anything from the bedrooms. my wife and i slept really soundly.

CONCLUSION:
A great place to stay with a great host that was highly responsive throughout our stay. Highly recommended!