The two things that swung this place in my favour when booking was the private bathroom and flexible check-in time. I was to arrive in Berlin via train at 4.22am and the hosts were okay with me checking in at 5.30am. Barbara was waiting for me in the bistro (thank you for waking up so early, Barbara).

The room I booked was not available that early, so I was first put in the bigger room (with a bed for two persons). I moved in to the smaller room the next night.

Do note that the main picture shown in the listing is of the bistro, not the rooms. But both share the same vintage chic feel.

The rooms were bright and cheerful and very clean. I loved the white sheets. The bathrooms were spotless, with dual shower heads. After the long journey by flight from Mexico and train from Amsterdam, it was so good to have a warm shower.

WiFi was consistently strong - very important in my research of what to do in Berlin.

The place is two blocks away from the U6 U-Bahn and bus stop to Berlin's main train station. Most of the trips I took were on the U6 and U2 (transit at Stadtmitte). Near the U-Bahn are places to eat like a Turkish shop, currywurst (next to tram line) and a Chinese shop. There are also a few pubs.

There is a private entrance to the rooms on the ground floor, so you don't disturb anyone and enjoy great privacy. The window faces the courtyard so it is very quiet and you'll get a good night's sleep (unless someone upstairs moves around noisily).

The price is of great value for a city like Berlin. Beats staying in a dorm/hostel and saves you money staying in a hotel.

Checking out early (I had an early train to catch) was also easy. I just dropped off the keys in a mailbox.