Hotels are nice but we wanted to live among the Romans for a week. Our stay in the Domus apartment in Trastevere was fantastic. The apartment was nicely furnished and had all the amenities we needed, including a full-sized kitchen where we enjoyed a few of our meals and a washing machine so we didn't have to pack quite as many items. Inside the apartment was nice and quiet but down on the street were a number of small markets, shops, bars, and restaurants. The owner also had some well-organized information for dinner and entertainment suggestions in the area that we might not have otherwise found. The commuter rail is very close but we didn't even need it to get to the most famous places in Rome. Each night, we went to a different, incredible restaurant within 4 blocks of our apartment. We hope to go back soon. --Justin and Sara Parisi, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Spent two weeks in Rome over Xmas and New Year with my 16 year old son. Rome's a great city, especially when you're staying in a well maintained, centrally located apartment.

The apartment is owned and managed by Tatiana and has been in her family for a long time. You can see the family connection by how well maintained and clean the apartment is. It's also why you get such a warm welcome and personal help from both Tatiana and Massimo.

The apartment was renovated a couple of years ago and also has everything that you need - washing machine, wifi internet, dvd etc etc. It's also a good size with plenty of room for 2 people. 3 people would also be ok.

The location is great, only 1 minute's walk from the Tiber and a couple of minutes and you're in the heart of Trastevere with its restaurants, shops, tourist office etc. The good thing is that while you're so close to the action of Trastevere, you're actually in the quiet part of this lively neighbourhood. No loud nightclubs in the street.

Tatiana and Massiomo are also happy to give great local advice on whatever you need to know.

A couple of things that people may need to be aware of is that there are no English television channels available or a phone in the apartment. The TV or phone wasn't a problem for us. The other thing is that while the apartment is in the quiet part of Trastevere, you may hear some noise from the street below from about 7:30am (Mon-Fri) as people start work. This shouldn't worry most people as you'll already be up and ready to explore Rome !

Both my son and I agreed, that the two weeks we spent in the apartment were great and that it was the ideal way to experience Rome.

Would I stay in the Insula apartment again ? Yes. Would I recommend it to friends and family ? Yes. Is it great value ? Yes.

When you compare what you'd pay at a hotel in Rome and what you pay for the apartment, plus all the extras (facilities, space) you get in the apartment, there's only one decision - the apartment. Plus you get Tatiana and Massimo!!