Vicente was extremely helpful and kind to us, not only in providing useful and extensive information about the city (things to do and amenities), but also in contacting my husband’s family, who live a bit outside of Valencia, after we lost our cell phone in a taxi upon arrival. (What a drag!) He also provided us with a bottle of wine, beer, breakfast food, coffee, tea, olive oil, and all the accouterments that made us feel at home. The apartment has clearly been well loved, and is a welcome retreat for people who are tired of eating out for all meals and would like to live among the locals. It’s a treat to have a kitchen and space to make our own breakfast and enjoy the privacy of our own space. We enjoyed shopping for incredible cheeses, chorizo, salchichon, and olives at the historic Centro Mercato before picking up bread, wine, dulces, fruit, and breakfast goodies at the nearby supermarket. The apartment is just a short walk to all the major sights, supermarket, central shopping area, and major bus lines to the beach without being in the thick of a touristy area.

The apartment could use some updating, in terms of furniture and bedding. A trip to Ikea would do. In addition, if you have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, be prepared to descend from the loft, which was a bit of a drag in the middle of the night. Vincente might consider switching out the living room space with the loft bedroom. Also, he ought to include use of the washing machine and the heat as part of the overall price. (We would have been fine if he increased the price for the apartment a few dollars off the bat.) Lastly, the shower walls had some water damage, so a few tiles fell off while we were there. So some attention to maintenance would have made this a better stay.

Overall, however, this is a good value for this wonderful neighborhood.