My family uses vacation rentals almost exclusively for our travels. We like the space; we like the experience of playing "temporary locals." There are two facets to a successful vacation rental: the quality and value of the venue itself and the hospitality of the hosts. This rental exceeded expectations on both fronts, and is easily one of the best experiences I've had in the past 10 years.

The apartment itself is spotlessly clean, well appointed for comfort and very smartly designed to make maximum use of limited light and available space in a garden-level unit. The photos are a very accurate representation but, if anything, understate the charms of this apartment. The unit offers plenty of space for a couple to very comfortably share for a short- or long-term stay. Personal photos make it feel less like a commercial rental and more like a home. Both the kitchen and bathroom are appointed with upscale fixtures, plenty of heat and water pressure and all the appliances and conveniences you could possibly want or need.

Equally impressive was the consideration and responsiveness of the hosts, Martin and Weng, who contacted us at least twice prior to our visit to ensure that everyone had the necessary contact information, and to ensure a plan for early bag drop-off prior to check in on arrival day. The minute our plane had landed, there was a welcome text waiting on my phone, and they were super quick to respond via text to any inquires. Awaiting us on arrival was a nice, handwritten note, a bottle of wine and some some basic provisions (bread, milk, jam, etc.) already stocked.

The location is conveniently close to all the requisite tourist sites, but far enough removed from the masses to be a retreat. One of the highlights of our short visit was to follow Martin and Weng's advice and walk down the hill (away from the tourist/commercial sites) to wander around the Stockbridge neighborhood. Lots of local boutiques, coffee shops and ethnic restaurants, alongside a walkway adjacent to the Waterway of Leith, a small canal that cuts thru the city.

We could not have been happier with this stay. Our only regret is that we were only there for a a few nights, but we'll definitely be back.