Lapo was an excellent host. He reached out in advance and offered advice and information about tours (day trips) and trains. My boyfriend and I live in NYC and love to travel. Even if you are with a friend or two, I could see staying here. There are two full bathrooms and the apartment is stunning! We loved the bright, airy space and the second floor loft area with the bed. The air conditioning was cold throughout the apartment and worked very well. Tons of space for your things, too. There is a short flight of stairs upon entering the building but it wasn’t a problem. The taxi line at the station was crazy long and Lapo offered to call a cab for us (we walked a little and ended up finding a taxi, but Lapo was certainly helpful). Lapo not only arrived in person to welcome us at the apartment (we arrived quite late, around 9 pm), but he also insisted on helping us with our bags (and did so when we departed—so kind!). Lapo took the time to show us all the amenities and even booked us a reservation at a local restaurant when we realized how late it was and we were hungry. Lapo even touched base during our stay, to see how we were doing. The location is awesome. I had been to Florence before and knew I didn’t want to stay in the thick of the touristy part. The area of Santo Spirito is perfect for those who want to see a more natural area, with less touristy stores (or stores that you can find anywhere). Instead you will find the cuter shops and more authentic/festive restaurants. It definitely feels trendier too, in a less pretentious way (more Brooklyn than uptown Manhattan, if that makes sense). A 30-year old fashionista friend of mine had lived in that exact area for a year and she couldn’t agree more when I asked her about Oltrarno (“very cool area” she said, and was right). It’s steps away from the Arno river and bridges, close to all you’ll want to see. Also a must-see is Boboli Gardens—which you may not prioritize if you’re on the touristy side of the Arno (but should!!!). All in all, we had a spectacular time in Florence and I would highly recommend Lapo’s beautiful apartment without hesitation. If friends of mine travel to Florence, I would tell them to skip the hotels and go straight to Lapo! Grazie, Lapo!!!