Isabella and her husband Aurelio were waiting for us in the beautiful apartment. The welcoming was as between friends who know each other for long time. We felt immediately at home. The apartment looked in reality even better than in the pictures. Furnished and decorated with a style that combines the character of an ancient house (wooden original ceiling) together with modern and "clean" details. We were taken to a tour around the neighborhood, to the market so we knew how to find everything we needed nearby. Isabella knew it's my birthday and there were endless surprises she prepared for me. As for example, asking the management of the restaurant where we were celebrating, to bring me a birthday cake and sing for me. Or to invite us to a very special evening, in a local theater, all to make us feel that it's a special event. It was really exciting.
Almost everyday, she sent us an email with suggestion of some special places to visit as she knew we have already been in Florence before. (Like the flower exhibition and the show of bronze sculptures in Palazzo Strozzi) The day we left, she came over with a big smile and ordered the taxi to the airport, taking care we arrive on time. Couldn't ask for a better host!
The apartment is beautiful and very well designed. The patio in the middle, allows the light come in to every part and is a real "shick".It was nice to sit there with glass of wine with a good cheese from the market. The apartment is very well equipped, very pleasant and very clean.
The location is great. A quiet street but still a walking distance from all traditional touristic places. So we could make our choice whether to spend our time among the local inhabitants (in restaurants and small bars), or in more touristic places.
We stayed in Isabella's "home from home" for 8 days. This apartment was a perfect choice. If we come to Florence again (We hope we do...) This will be the place we want to stay. Until then, we give our warmest recommendations.
Yuli & Rami