We spent Christmas in Florence (Dec 22-26) and it couldn't have been better. Alain and Irene were extremely attentive and warm hosts anticipating our arrival and, though they were on holidays when we arrived, we enjoyed the attentive hosting by Irene's sister, Francesca, who was helpful, funny and sweet. Most of the family lives in the building off which this courtyard of rentals is attached and it's a superb location run by kind, personable people. The view and location is as spectacular as pictured and our orientation was thorough; we got a map with notations for where to do grocery shopping, etc., and where the big sites are. We used the map extensively and soon got to know the best routes home from the sites and train station, which we got down to an easy 10 minute walk. We popped out to the Duomo for the Christmas Eve service that took our breath away. We walked to Oltrarno restaurants in no time. (Being across the street from the hospital, a few sirens, but in fact, the courtyard brings a hush as soon as we entered from the street - couldn't have asked for a quieter location.) Grazie, Irene, Alain, Francesca and family for an unforgettable Christmas in Florence!