René was a very kind and communicative host, and his place was very clean, spacious, and comfortable. Great location, close to public transportation and plenty of restaurants and bars - Café Schadé is a little spot on the corner for German frühstück (breakfast), Bar 12 is a trendy and cozy hangout spot, Falafel Al Amin had great takeout food, and Eschenbräu is a fun brewery just up the street. The apartment is on a side street so does not get too much street noise, but there is some if you are from a different time zone and want to sleep until 11 am. :) Overall, this was the perfect place to stay for a week of getting to know Berlin.