Exceeded Expectations
Submitted: June 16, 2011
Stayed: May 2011
My husband, our three grown children and I, stayed here in May 2011. We were very optimistic, based on the photos (it was exactly as portrayed), reviews and my correspondence with Tony prior to our trip, but the apartment was even better than we expected. The two adjoining units gave everyone privacy and some room to spread out--for an urban unit it was surprisingly spacious. The apartment was quite clean and was equipped with absolutely everything we could have possibly needed: blow dryer, adapters, snacks, tools, travel books, you name it--NOTHING was overlooked. We loved the breeze through our open windows and the view outside. It should be noted that the back two rooms are much quieter at night if the windows are open. On the street side there is a soft bubbling from a fountain on the street below, so peaceful at the end of a long day touring sites, but drowned out by intermittent traffic noises four stories down. We actually found the city noises soothing as well, but not everyone would. We closed the windows to sleep and it was sufficiently quiet.
The apartment is an easy walk to the Colosseum and we walked easily to the Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill, Capitaline Hill, and Forum, though we are all relatively fit. We used the Colosseo and San Giovanni metro stops, both approximately 3/4 mile away.
The neighborhood feels very, very safe. We came in late many nights and never had any concerns. Googlemaps "street view" does not do it justice. It appears that the pictures were taken when many businesses were closed. There is a lovely cafe next door with delicious panini and gelati, reasonably priced, and the owners were warm and friendly. While many of the restaurants near the Colosseum did appear to cater to tourists with average food, there were a couple gems as well. There are convenience markets on the street for quick stops, and there is a larger grocery a couple of blocks away, around the corner. A post office, ATM and pharmacy are all within two blocks.
Lastly, Tony, his staff and those whom he recommended for services were extremely gracious, helpful and reliable. He helped us line up tours and drivers and their assistance was invaluable. We are grateful to have had such a comfortable refuge during our stay, and we look forward to having the opportunity to return! Special thanks to Irene for her patience with us and for keeping us safe on the crazy streets in Rome!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 1/1
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