Pristine, centrally located, and the owner thought of everything — including things you wouldn’t have thought of. I have stayed in a number of places in Florence and this was the best one so far — and I am quite discerning, so that is saying something. I say this recognizing that I could have chosen places with a view and might be even more satisfied, but I am here to talk about what is inside.
In Italy, you may be challenged to find an apartment where:
1) Everything works
2) It is spacious, including in the bathroom
3) It is clean, with nary a spec of dust
4) Is ideally located at the same time
Yet, Mirella’s apartment is, and she will provide you with the sort of service and attention that is exemplary. Can’t speak Italian? Well, Mirella just might bring along her translator, as she did for me. Need something? Just ask and it will be there.
A gander in the kitchen is one place where you learn this apartment is different. It features everything you need and some you didn’t think of. I loved having a nespresso available, with a bottle of wine, to boot. The water runs well, the refrigerator stays cold and the freezer does its job — look for the marvelous approach to ice: ice cube bags (pour water in and it makes cubes) in the draw, something I never thought of and I have already bought on Amazon. Turn next to the closet by the front door and you will find an umbrella, an iron, cleaning supplies, and take the shopping bag for your trip to the store. Even the tv works — with cable, and a clear screen.
Importantly, on 90 degree days the three air conditioners worked as well as a polar bear would want. You will find a lot of stifling apartments in Italy. Not here.
The beds are quite comfortable — firm, but they worked quite well for me, and I slept soundly with no back ache (I get them at my own home). I did not notice street noise — it quiets down but even before it does you won’t hear it unless you try.
The building is clean and quite — it feels professional and mature. I went up and down the elevator dozens of times and saw another person just once. It felt exclusive — as if I lived there.
As for the location, I know from having been to Florence 20+ times that anything near the famous Piazza Della Repubblica is perfect to enjoy Florence, the beautiful ancient city that I love and was able to enjoy thanks to Mirella’s apartment.