Laura's apartment is a fantastic base for exploring Florence. Firstly, it's a breeze to get to. We flew in to Pisa and, after taking the short PisaMover shuttle from the airport to Pisa Centrale station, took a direct train to Firenze S.M.N (takes around an hour) and then it's a 20 minute walk to Laura's apartment. Communication was great. Laura messaged me a few days before arrival to sort times and then on the day, I told her the time we'd get there. Once we did, she met us at the apartment to welcome us and show us all the facilities. It's an impeccably clean space and it's clear that Laura and her family have put a lot of love and care into maintaining it. I'd describe the style as country/vintage chic. All the usual amenities are included - there's air-conditioning and free WiFi, and there were additional pillows (which were memory foam!) as well as an iron and ironing board and plenty of additional kitchen roll and loo roll. Although there aren't many windows (which can make it a little dark at times) there's a small private courtyard, which lets in some light and is a lovely space to eat breakfast or meals outside if the weather's nice. One of the great things was that we didn't need to buy breakfast! Laura had already provided us with pastries, biscuits, fresh fruits, cereal and milk, and large bottles of water in the fridge - which were much appreciated given the 30+ degree heat! Although we didn't eat lunch or dinner in the apartment, she'd also supplied rice and pasta and all the utensils you'd need to cook. There's a fab espresso machine - for that morning pick-me-up - and plenty of different teas. The apartment's well-located too. It's down a small side-street, which makes it quiet at night, and only a 10 minute walk to the Piazza del Duomo and Cathedral. It's only a few minutes more to the Piazza della Signoria (for the Palazzo Vecchio, statue of David, Ufuzzi, etc) and Piazza della Repubblica. Plenty of good restaurants and gelaterias around too. We'll definitely stay here again if we're visiting the city. Fab location, great amenities and wonderful hospitality from Laura! Some recommendations: - Head to the south side of the river for cheaper restaurants (it's where the locals live/go and away from the tourist traps) - For us, the best gelato was from La Strega Nocciola. They have a couple of shops in the city, but there's one just down the road from the apartment on Via Ricasoli. 2.5 euros for two flavours and you get a decent amount. Try the White Chocolate and Cinnamon, and Lavender! - We went on two fantastic walking tours with La Bussola. It's completely free (although you're welcome to tip at the end) and they're available in multiple languages. They're run by local volunteers, who know their stuff. Our guide, Debbie, was an art historian and gave us a fascinating insight into...