Cecilia and her family were very kind and helpful to me throughout the entire process. She was always available to answer my questions before, and during my stay. I planned this trip super last minute and she was so friendly and accommodating, even though I speak zero Italian and literally booked less than a week before! The flat itself is beautiful, and really I was pleasantly surprised with the size, and how well equipped it was with every necessity you can think of. It definitely is bigger than the photos make it to be! Its spacious and well situated, and the bed and furniture were super comfortable and cozy. If you get cold easily like me (I was here in February), Cecilia has several comforters and cozy blankets for you to add, which I very much appreciated. As far as the location, it’s really perfect! Less than a 30 minute walk to the city center, and I recommend to walk instead of take the bus if you are able, it’s the best way to see this city; even if you are here in the outskirts. Also, this was my first trip to Italy, and I did it alone.... yet, I felt very safe walking back to the flat late at night. The people in the neighborhood are very friendly, and the streets are well lit. Because I planned my trip so last minute, this was the only flat available. I thought it was a negative to be outside of the city center in a more suburban area. I came into my trip thinking I was going to spend all my time out of the flat and neighborhood. Although you are probably coming as I was, to see all the major sights (and they are important), I was so wrong to think this. I recommend actually spending a day, or at least half of a day, just local and not go into the city center; there is a nice coffee shop just across the street, as well as an open air market a 5 minute walk down the street (also happens to be on your way into town). I really enjoyed both of these stops, and the the neighborhood’s little shops and charm as a whole. it was very peaceful and felt familial, and I wish I had time to explore it more. Along these lines, the flat and neighborhood are a very nice place to come home to after a long day of sightseeing! Yes, if you look on the map it is across from a train station, but it’s really not a bother compared to any other european city.... also the noise would be much louder if you were staying in the city center! In conclusion, you really can tell Cecilia and her family have a lot of passion for their homes, and it shows in the flat. Very familial and warm. I would be happy to stay here again when I return to Florence, I was so pleased with my stay. You will not make a mistake by staying here!
Grazie, Cecilia and family for your wonderful hospitality :)
Sarah