Guido set the standard right from the off. Communication once booked was excellent. Both fast and helpful. Our communication with host was limited over the 4 days booked which shows how smoothly things went. It was the perfect accommodation for us, however there are some points I would make.
I will get the cons out of the way. But will stress these are not cons for us, but some visitors would like to know before booking. Again, this is no fault of the host.
CONS
1. This is a tower building (historically very cool to stay in) but this means that there are a few stairs to climb. I would not recommend this for older visitors, if you have any issues with knees or back OR if you have a family. Its fine for the first day or so, but if you have a long stay you might find it a bit much. I would stress my wife and I did not, in fact we thought it helpful after a large bowl of pasta (the guilt was reduced!)
2. You are in a city, so be prepared for some noise. Again, this is no fault of the host. Im not sure what could be done other than maybe some ear plugs if you're sensitive to city living. The bedroom is at the back which limits the noise but it is there. On this again, we did not have an issue as a few glasses of wine deals with that issue.
3. Size, it is a little on the small size. Again, we knew this before we booked. Its a historic building built a few hundred years ago so spacious living was not on the agenda. We did not spend much time in the place as we were out all day visiting the many sights (I will touch this in the pros!) so really all we wanted was a bed and a shower. There is ample room for storage etc but if you are a family and want a little room to dance around. Be prepared. Again, not an issue for us.
That is it for CONS. Nothing to worry about as long as your aware. None were issues for us. But may be for some.
PROS
1. Guido, the host. He was awesome, met us exactly on time (I think he works in the area) at check in and was quick to answer questions that came up over the 4 days we were there. He has clearly put some effort into his place. Not sure if this is his first but I think he will do well.
2. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. I do not think we could of picked a better spot for the tourist attractions. We were no more than 10 minutes at the furthest attraction, and literally around the corner from most. It was awesome as the weather had turned and we were never in the rain for more than 10 minutes.
3. Price. Guido has priced this exactly right. Any more and you could argue a bigger place, another location etc. But for us, the price point negated any con you could have with the place (lack of elevator or size) it really was the best value for money we found.
4. Restaurants/Bars. We were no more than 20 mins from some of the best restaurants in the city. Also, some of the more reasonable priced spots are around the corner for the more budget minded traveller.
5. Function. Yes the place is small, yes you need to walk up some stairs. But everything you would need for a short stay is in Guidos place. My personal peef is usually a lack of a good Iron, sounds ridiculous but its one of my things. He thought of it all. There is a washer but you need to hang your clothes, but the kitchen has all you would need if you want to cook breakfast, theres a fridge to store your left overs for the next day!
Overall, we had a great experience in Florence. We enjoyed the city and its wonderful history. Its sights are something to behold, all of which were helped by the fact we were in the centre of it all. For the price I would not hesitate booking his place. Dont be afraid of the stairs, you maybe thankful for them after some of those meals, and really use it as a base to explore the city.
Thanks Guido, we look forward to visiting your city again in the future!
(PS, the host welcomed us with something that was very much appreciated! I dont want to give too much away but it was a nice touch!)