I thoroughly enjoyed my month-long stay at Casa Marfisa, which greatly exceeded my very high expectations. This was mainly due to Marfisa who is an excellent host and was perhaps the most welcoming, warm, generous, and kind host I have encountered to date. Upon receiving me, she took quite a bit of time to show me around the apartment and building and explain how all the appliances worked, describe the neighbourhood and its many amenities, and offer many suggestions on how to navigate around Berlin. Not only that but she had baked two cakes to welcome me to Berlin (a delicious poppy cheesecake and an equally delicious apricot strudel) as well as providing me with plenty of mineral water upon my arrival. What was even more astonishing was her taking me out dinner the first week-end of my stay and a wonderful brunch on the morning of my departure. The fourth-floor apartment itself was first-rate and a very good value: very clean, well-organized with modern furnishings and appliances, and easily accessible by elevator. The neighborhhood, in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg just off Kastanienallee, cannot be beat, right next to a large park and with many wonderful restaurants, watering holes, shops, public transport connections, and grocery stores within very easy walking distance. All in all, an excellent host, an excellent apartment and an excellent setting which all contributed to make my Berlin stay truly memorable!