AM Collection: Our Accommodations in Florence

Our final Airbnb selection was the priciest of the three, yet it was still far cheaper than a hotel of the same caliber, and a far better, more personal experience. AM Collection had only been open for about six months at the time of our visit. Alberto, who was about our age, had purchased and renovated two apartments on the fourth floor of a building just off Piazza di Santa Maria Novella. It was easy to see why he has reached the "Superhost" ranking on Airbnb. He spared no expense in furnishing the apartments (which also serve as a small art gallery) and his hospitality was wonderful.

The location was perfect—a five minute walk from the train station, and walking distance from all the major sights. (We used public transportation only once our entire time in Florence; one of many great things about the city is the way so much of what you'd want to see is clustered together and easy to reach on foot.)

When we arrived, Alberto helped carry up our luggage, since there was no elevator. He served us espresso and sat down to point out restaurants and sights on a map he provided. We didn't see him a whole lot after that, as he doesn't live on site, but he promised to be available by phone or text if we needed anything, and true to his word, he was very easy to get in touch with. We texted him a few different times asking for pizza recommendations or help getting reservations at a restaurant, and he was so patient and helpful in answering our questions. (Sadly I did not get a picture with him before we left!)

Alberto served us breakfast on a tray in our room each morning--a selection of fresh fruit, pastries, and panini. He's also a pastry chef, so the breakfasts were delicious. My favorite was the citrus cake, which he said was his grandmother's recipe.

He also showed us how to use the espresso machine and milk-frother ourselves, and provided a pitcher of milk for our mini-fridge so that I could make cappuccino on the morning when we needed to leave for a tour before breakfast was served.

 

Additionally, when we needed to leave for the airport by 7AM, he packed a breakfast of pastries, fruit, and juice for us the day before. So kind and generous. We would not hesitate to stay here again or recommend this place to others!

Again, we have nothing but good things to say about our experience using Airbnb. If you're interested in checking it out, please use this link for $20 off your first booking (and a referral kickback for me :)