Our arrival to Florence and Anna Rebecca's apartment was easy and uneventful. Very welcome. Although we knew through communicating with Anna Rebecca that she would not be able to meet us due to an international flight of her's, she had arranged for her friend to meet us and direct us to the apartment, which is literally across the street for the train terminal. We communicated with Debbie very well, using WhatsApp. Debbie went over the apartment with us and left us two sets on keys, since we were traveling with another couple and their small dog.
The apartment is large with separate bedrooms (double size beds) and a nice living room area , with sofas and dining table. We also had the use of a second full bath at the end of the apartment, which was very convenient. The building had an elevator and outside balcony. Anna Rebecca was kind to leave a bottle of wine for our enjoyment and maps of Florence. Exactly like pictured.
We did a lot of walking to the various sites in Florence and highly recommend climbing the Brunelleschi dome (Duomo) and touring the old part of the church and the baptistry. The Uffizi gallery was an interesting building but the many, many paintings of the Madonna and child became tedious.
Shopping was quite extensive in Florence. Purchasing a couple of pairs of leather boots and a jacket was such fun. The character Pinocchio originated in the area. Souvenirs and cute photo opportunities abound.
We dined well. An evening meal near the Ponte Vecchio of delicious pastas, steak Florentine and veal chops. Gelato while sightseeing is a must.
While walking along the river at night, there was a light show on the Ponte Vecchio of famous artwork . Quite extraordinary.
Florence was decorated nicely for the holidays, the people were friendly and very forgiving our poor Italian. We would love to return.