What a neat space- this was my first time using Airbnb, and this was just a tad more expensive than my conference hotel, so I decided to go for a stay in the city. I stayed a full week with my 20 yo son. At several points we had visitors over for a drink or cards and everyone was impressed with the space, all (adults!) took a try or two on the fun swing right in the middle of the room. The space just has a great feel, comfortable enough that we were not overly concerned with ruining anything and nice enough that we felt like we were having a neat city experience. We felt welcomed by Michelle who was flexible with our check in and out time, and handed over her space kindly and with trust.

My favorite things:
1. Large gothic windows with great light
2. Comfortable couches, and a cozy mattress for the floor, also very comfortable large bed upstairs
3. Great gathering spaces- enough seating for a dinner around table or comfy couches for 6.
4. in the center of everything- right in the middle of the city, easy access to public transport, the Vic market, lots of close eateries, the mall, Chinatown
5. Lots of local books about the city in the loft (the hostess herself is a travel author)
6. Michelle provided great supplies, including shampoo, laundry soap, some spices and instant coffee- all the basics to get us by- and the kitchen was well stocked so we could cook up the things we brought back from the Vic Market
7. Reliable wi-fi internet service, and an hdmi cable so we could watch movies from our laptop

Things you should know to plan a pleasant visit:
1. There's not much privacy. The only door in the place is on the small toilet closet. The shower/bath combo does not have a door and the bath area is visible from several places in the loft.
2. This is not a place for kids. It's a third floor apartment and there are not rails on the stairs within the loft. There are not steps down in to the tub, and the roof access is a bit of a sharp climb- so not a place for anyone with limited mobility.
3. There's really no nearby long-term parking, and it's pricey to park in the city.
4. This is in the city and there are lots of city noises. There's a great clock that chimes on the hour and the half. The alleyway starts "waking up" at about 7am, with warm light through the windows and openings of local businesses. The loft shares a stairway with a tattoo shop and you can hear people up and down the stairs through the day and evening.

No complaints from me, I'd stay again, or at any other property managed by this nice hostess. It will be hard to top this experience. Thanks Michelle!