Francesca was a very sweet and helpful host! She was waiting for us outside the apartment (we almost passed it up but she recognized me from my airbnb photo!). She loves her city and that makes an impression on you when you arrive. Her suggestions about food, sites and the city in general are very helpful and much appreciated.
The apartment is very well appointed. Everything we needed was there including some delicious cookies and tasty wine from her husband's winery! The clothes washer was great and the stove worked perfectly. The apartment's layout is very clever with good useable space. There is a nice little desk in the loft with a daybed/futon as well. The wifi was fast, reliable and was easy to setup.
The bed was firm but very comfortable (we like that) and there is a great armoire to keep all of your clothes neat and organized.
The bathroom is small but very nice and clean. The shower is a fold-out type but works great once you figure it out. There was an odor from the bathroom drain (this is very common in Florence since it is such an old city) but we lit some candles and that really helps. Francesca also has some water treatment tablets that really seem to work.
The location is truly amazing. Seriously. The Duomo is steps from the apartment so you see it everyday and are able to gradually take in the magnificent details of this building every time you leave the apartment. It is also on the first floor down a long corridor so it is very easy - no steps. It is very secure: an outer door leading from the street, a locking electric gate to the interior and then another key to the apartment itself. Excellent!
Firenze is a great little city brimming with art history and Francesca's apartment is right in the middle of everything. Cannot wait to go back.
Happy New Year and thanks!
Andrew and Laura
P.S. Hope your holiday was great!