We had a wonderful stay at Federico’s unique home in Florence! We were met on-time by Federico’s friend Alessandro who gave us a great run-through of the home, even hand-marking a map showing his favorite local restaurants, pubs and attractions. You enter the courtyard of the building through smaller doors cut into the enormous doors that are original to the building. After passing through another secured gate in the courtyard, once inside the home you are struck by the frescos on the ceiling in the living room and bedroom, making it feel like you’re sleeping in the Sistine Chapel! The bed is quite comfortable, the windows open for fresh air and the wifi performed well. The bathroom and shower are generous in size, as is the kitchen down a short hall off the living area. There is also a washing machine though we didn’t use it. The home is quite comfortable and we found the location ideal. Located a mere 100 meters from Santa Croce, it’s a 4-5 mins from the river, a 10 min walk to the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery and the higher-end shopping nearer Ponta Vecchio. You are surrounded by restaurants in all directions and there is a wonderful place directly across the street that serves a true American breakfast (over-easy eggs, bacon, avocado toast, pancakes, good coffee, etc). As noted, the home is a 3-story walk-up which is not uncommon but be mindful for large bags (Alessandro graciously shared the load with me on the way in). Communication throughout booking and arrival process was expedient and flawless, our host even arrange a reliable taxi for our ride to the airport when we left. This was a wonderful spot to call home while in Florence!