The room was exactly as pictured, and in a great location! Very beautiful! Maja was very sweet and met us at the church across from the apartment. She worked with us well so we were able to meet her right after we arrived in Venice by train. I don't believe you can check in early with Maja and Claudia, but we planned around it and Maja was very flexible with us! Only Claudia lived at the apartment while we were staying there, but was not home when we arrived. We did not meet her at any point during our 3 day stay, and while it didn't detract from the trip's overall experience, it was a little strange and felt like we were really tip-toeing around in someone else's home. Overall, though, very comfortable and nice stay in Venice!