We enjoyed our stay in the Olivia apartment. The owner and her husband met us at the apartment and helped us carry our luggage up to the 4th floor. The stairs were no problem at all. They were just a good warm-up for all the stairs we would climb during the day visiting museums, etc. The apartment is exactly as described. We especially appreciated the artwork on the walls. Having two bathrooms made it easier to get out early in the morning. The location could not be more convenient. The restaurants in the neighborhood are good, but you have to go late if you want to be in the company of some Italians and not just other visitors. The best food shops are on the Via dei Bardi beyond the Ponte Vecchio. We discovered them too late in our stay. We hope to return to Florence and would definitely use Italy Perfect again. They met and exceeded our expectations.

Will a vacation rental turn out to be as good as its advertising? Olivia is, with the added benefit of outstanding information and responsiveness from Italy Perfect before our arrival, and from Olivia's owner during our stay. We stayed a month and appreciated the spaciousness and extras we didn't see in other rentals at this price: two full bathrooms, wall safe, dishwasher, wifi, washer/dryer and all-inclusive utilities. The kitchen was well equipped and there were plenty of extra linens, pillows and towels...even Christmas decorations during our holiday stay! Don't let the 5th floor deter you; after you get the luggage up, it's manageable, even for seniors. The area is safe and central, with major sights a 10 minute walk away and maybe 20 minutes to the edges of the Centro Historico. Plenty of eateries and shopping for all price ranges within a couple of blocks: we liked Mamma Gina, Casalinga, Gusta pizza and osteria, Il Santo Bevitore, Quattro Leone. For groceries we shopped just south of the P. Vecchio (produce stand and supermarket on V. dei Bardi, forno on V. Guicciardini). Never saw a neighbor in the hallway but felt connected to the vibrant city even when inside via church bells and voices in the street below. Don't miss the Mercato Centrale and lunch at Nerbone (or nearby ZaZa and Rossopomodoro), unusual gelato flavors, the Capella dei Brancacci, Palazzo Strozzi or any historical parade.

Olivia is a great apartment situated just across the river from central Florence. The apartment is clean and tidy with good quality furnishings and all the conveniences of home. The apartment also came a number of items that made the stay comfortable - little things like paper towels and coffee filters as well as a welcome basket with goodies.

Location of this property really couldn't be better. A five minute walk gets you into the town and there are literally a dozen great restaurants within a few minutes walk. We ate at several on the same street and had great experiences with each.

The apartment is not recommended for those who would have trouble going up/down stairs as there are several flights involved. Even the fit amongst us would find them somewhat tiring, however by mid-week we were used to them. The owners were charming and very happy to help with logistics.

We would definitely consider staying there again should we end up back in Florence. The service through Italy Perfect was great and very painless. The information sheets provided with your reservation give a good introduction to the town and the country and contain useful information.

(We used the Rick Steves Florence/Tuscany book).

Our stay at "Olivia" in Florence was absolute perfection. We were greeted personally by Angela, who was very friendly and knowledgeable. The apartment itself is beautifully appointed and is a stone's throw from all the major and minor attractions in the city. The fifth floor was a bit daunting at first, but we began to enjoy climbing the stairs, as it burned off all the extra calories from the fabulous food and wine! Having two bathrooms and an air conditioner was the best, though. "Olivia" will forever have a special place in our hearts as we became engaged at the steps of Il Duomo. So we have given it some good karma. Ciao, Bella!