Mariangela's apartment is a great place to stay in Florence, its comfortable and clean, and the host (Mariangela) is nice and helpful. His boyfriend doesn't speak english, but that wasn't a problem. The room is spacious and nice, its a bit noisy however, because the flat is right next to a busy road. The apartment is about 20-25 from the city center on foot, you can also take public transport, but its not necessary. There are a few grocery shops around, and a good panini place as well.