We had a great time and would definitely stay here again. Communication with the host was great and the checkin process was easy. The host even let us check in early; our plane landed at 8AM and we didn't want to lug suitcases around until 3-4 pm so they accommodated our schedule. This apartment has INCREDIBLE views and the location was amazing. We had friends stay on Grassmarket Street (a 3-4 minute walk away) and considered staying there to be "in the action". However, we are so glad we stayed here because the apartment is in "Ramsey Garden" which is a little nook tucked off the main drag (Royal Mile) and a short walk to Grassmarket. It was much quieter than staying on Grassmarket or the Royal Mile and you have much better city views. Below are a few pros and cons:
Pros:
1. AMAZING views of Edinburgh. You can open the living room window and hear bagpipes and see the water.
2. Centrally located and walkable to everything you need to see. You are a 2 minute walk from the Royal Mile and a 4 minute walk to Grassmarket. You are also right next to the Edinburgh castle (the start of the the Royal Mile).
3. Well stocked kitchen with everything you need to cook meals. There was a fridge/freezer, electric water kettle, french press for coffee, a dishwasher, and all the basic items of silverware, knives, pots, plates, etc.
4. Free wifi: We traveled internationally and just used our phones when we had wifi to plan events, make reservations, etc.
5. There is a washing machine and drying racks, so you can pack light and wash clothes as needed.
6. Other great amenities like: hangers in the closet to hang your clothes, extra pillows and blankets, a full bathroom with a tub, cable TV and 2 love seats in the living room, a dinning room table, lots of plugs (so bring your converters).
Cons:
1. You need to climb 65 stairs to get to the apartment. It is worth the views, but be mindful of this if you have mobility issues.
2. I would have liked a manual/instructions on the apartment appliances. I traveled from the USA and didn't know how to use the outlets, the stove top, the oven, or the shower. (I know, I know...just another dumb American. haha) This wasn't a deal breaker, and a more seasoned traveler might know these things, but I spent a bit of time on Google searches figuring out the basics like how to "use the oven" and "how to turn on the stove top".
3. The apartment was clean and tidy but there were tiny moths in the bedroom. I think this is probably normal in an old building, and the host did have a few month balls in the drawers.
Overall, we had a fantastic stay and will recommend this apartment to friends!