At first, this listing looks too good to believe. Literally every important tourist destination in the city is no more than ten minutes away. Even more so if you've run searches for hotel rooms in that area, and the budget hotels cost four times as much.

The first reason to believe is Mel herself: super rapid response time, a people's person, and clearly someone with a strong grounding in hospitality.

On reaching the area, I took a little while to figure the exact address because of road closures. I called Mel for help, and she appeared in person within 3 minutes. Either she's Batgirl or just very, very good :)

Also, on my way here, I realised too late that my rental car company wouldn't be able to pick up the car, and I would have to figure parking - in the heart of the city. Before I could put my sorry face on to talk to Mel, she handed over a piece of paper. She had preempted, based on words in a phone call, figured permissions and logistics and the parking was ready. See, Batgirl again!

The house itself is brilliant. It is on the ground level so we didn't have lug suitcases up flights of stairs. The interiors are done up with love and care, with luxury and comfort in mind. There's oodles of space, including a room with 4 single beds that was perfect for the kids. The bathrooms are worth a special mention as well.

Mel spent a good deal of time, walking us thru the house and specific features. She also then gave us a super-helpful guide to the city: things to do and see, food, and more. This was way beyond the call of duty, and really appreciated by my whole group.

In summary, a superlative experience and a good decision. And we don't even need a Bat-sign!