My husband and I very much enjoyed our stay in Michela's apartment in Florence. The room was cozy yet spacious with a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, and without a doubt the best shower we found in Italy. The private garden was a nice place for a glass of wine after exploring the city, maybe with a book from Michela's great collection of English novels (we left our Italy 2015 Fodor's guide -- you're welcome).

Its location in the Oltrarno is a huge plus, walkable to all the attractions but far out from the tourist-clogged streets. Plus the area has many great attractions of its own: Piazza Santo Spirito, Boboli Gardens, and many great shops, restaurants and bars. We visited many of the places Michela recommends in her guidebook and loved them all. If you want a place that is off the beaten path yet accessible, affordable and comfortable, by all means stay at Michela's.

Many of the other reviewers talked about Michela's famous hospitality. Well, unfortunately for us, we did not get to experience this firsthand because she was in hospital recovering from an injury. That said, she was highly responsive and appointed her sister-in-law and boyfriend to step in to meet us, make us feel welcome, an answer any questions quickly. Hopefully next time we come back we'll get to meet Michela and maybe take a yoga class!