The pictures posted here, beautiful though they are, don't do this place justice. It's a smartly-appointed studio/cottage in an outstanding location smack in the middle of Hollywood. The location happens to be the Smalleys' back yard, which is quite an oasis in a rather beautiful part of Southern California.

Robin and her husband treated us with great kindness. They pre-stocked the mini-fridge with breakfast items, snacks and a welcome beverage. They were generous with suggestions for what to eat & drink nearby. And they helped us navigate tricky things like where to park our rental car so as to avoid those pricey street cleaning tickets.

Charming little touches around the property like the vanity plate on their car and the cottage's WiFi password suggest the sincere warmth associated with those classic, aspirational ideas of what life in California is supposed to be about.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, and we're very grateful to the Smalleys for all their hospitality. Our only regret is that we didn't stay longer.