All'ombra del Carmine

The apartment is in a great location, within walking distance of both the main train station and the historic city centre. The neighborhood is quiet and offers plenty of grocery stores, cafés, and bars nearby. The apartment is clean and provides most of the basic amenities needed for a comfortable stay. While I have stayed in some nicer apartments in Italy at a similar price point, I would still consider this apartment to be good value overall. The check-in and check-out processes were smooth, and Alberto was very responsive and helpful via WhatsApp whenever needed.

The only negative aspect of my stay was the mosquito issue upon arrival. As soon as I entered the apartment, I noticed a significant number of mosquitoes in different rooms, including the bedroom, kitchen, and entrance area. I immediately informed the host via WhatsApp and also reported the issue through Booking.com. This was simply a standard documentation procedure, as mosquitoes are unpleasant and it was unclear whether their presence was due to a temporary situation or a broader issue with the apartment. To the host's credit, someone came to inspect the apartment and promptly addressed the problem using insect spray and electric mosquito repellent devices. When I returned later, the issue had been resolved, which I appreciated. However, I was surprised by the response provided by the property administrator to my report via booking. The reply suggested that the number of mosquitoes present was normal (she counted them in every room and the total was 12) and implied that guests who find such a number excessive should avoid traveling to certain geographical areas. I do not believe this is an appropriate response from a property representative. I have traveled extensively throughout Italy and many other parts of the world, and while mosquitoes are certainly common in warm seasons and green areas, guests generally do not expect to encounter them inside their accommodation upon arrival. There are several preventative measures that could help avoid this situation, such as installing mosquito screens, activating repellent devices before guests arrive, or providing clear information about how to use them and where to find them. The administrator's response indicated that such devices were already available in the apartment, but it is worth noting that it is not particularly pleasant for guests staying only a few nights to spend part of their arrival dealing with a mosquito problem.

La posizione. Il terrazzo. La pulizia

Bidet in posizione scomoda. Mancano le zanzariere.

The apartment is good in general, a very nice quite location which is at the beginning of the old town and in a close proximity to the railway station. The check-in and communication with the host were easy and quick. The building is neat and calm. The apartment is big enough with a lovely balcony overlooking a gorgeous magnolia tree and a tower of the San Carmine church. The kitchen has appliances for basic cooking and the bathroom includes bide and a hairdryer.

I did bump into a cockroach inside the bed the other night, which was a terrible experience since I had to sleep in it. I informed the owner straight away and he offered solutions immediately (changing bed sheets etc). But in general it looked like a one off guest coming uninvited.

The apartment is very well positioned, and is near to both the train station and the historic centre. I enjoyed walking to the historic sites and Padua is delightful. The neighbourhood immediately around the apartment is good, clean, and seems safe, with a variety of lively cafes and places to eat nearby. The other residents of the apartment building were friendly too. The apartment is basically furnished, and reasonably well equipped with a new microwave, air conditioner, sink, coffee maker, fridge-freezer, and hot plate. I appreciated that the host left a few coffee pods, snacks, toiletries, and a bottle of water for guests. The WiFi was reliable, fast and easy to access. The apartment was clean, the host is friendly and courteous, and the check-in procedure was clear and straightforward. There is nice balcony with a view that was enjoyable.

My first impression of the apartment was bad. There were mosquitoes, and it smelt very strongly of either smoke, cleaning products, or maybe a combination of both. After I took care of the mosquitoes and then opened the windows for a few hours it was tolerable but initially I considered leaving. It seems that the host is steadily improving the apartment in response to feedback. I can confirm that there is a new microwave for example. Some of the furniture is newer but other pieces are worn and the entry hall needs some basic maintenance. For example, the cover plate on the door handle has come loose, and gets in the way of the keyhole. I would tend to agree with other reviewers who found the bed hard but this depends on what you are used to. Some hangers in the wardrobe would be helpful, and maybe a thicker blanket for when it gets cooler. Otherwise guests will need to use the heating, which the host requests you limit. It felt a little expensive for what it was, and I would be far less critical if it was better value. I have stayed in much, much nicer apartments for the same amount elsewhere in Italy. However, perhaps this is just a reflection of local prices in the area. Other guests are correct that the host will request you remove any trash and wash all dishes before leaving. However this isn’t particularly unusual. Overall it’s a satisfactorily clean and safe apartment in a good location. However, I would struggle to recommend it with any real conviction.