Cecilia made arrangements for us to pick up the keys to her apartment at a nearby cafe. Once we had the keys and the code to the downstairs door, we were happily ensconced in Cecilia's truly beautiful Stockholm apartment. It is very large, with a living room, bedroom, and eat-in kitchen, plus TWO balconies. Unlike many apartments that we have rented, this one was obviously not simply an investment rent-a-place, but her very own apartment. We felt like we were friends who had made arrangements to use her place while she was out of town. This intimacy had some distinct advantages. The kitchen, for instance, was fully equipped and set up because Cecilia, who we would guess is an excellent cook, had cooked there recently herself. It was a pleasure to prepare meals there and eat at the little kitchen table. The art on the walls and the various objets de art throughout the apartment always provided visual entertainment and often food for thought. The apartment was very clean and, well, charming. The only drawback was that there was not a lot of space for us to stow our own stuff, but we quickly figured out that minor problem and enjoyed ourselves in this sophisticated and beautiful space.

The location was also very satisfying. Located on one of the main drags in Soderholm, filled with cafes and small shops, the apartment was an interesting fifteen to twenty minute stroll to the Gamla Stan, Stockhplm's old town. There were grocery stores within a half a block, subway stations five to ten minutes walk, and the one of the City Bike stands was only a few blocks away. I should also mention that although the flat is on the fifth floor, there is a dependable lift.

If you a re visiting Stockholm and get a chance to rent this apartment, don't hesitate.