Shelley is a warm, welcoming, vibrant and generous hostess. And her partner Alec is kind and very helpful. The cottage was perfectly clean and lots of attention given to everything I may need, even a toothbrush&toothpaste. While the room matches hotel standards, it was far more interesting staying in a welcoming home. And a big comfy bed ensured I slept well. 21 blocks is a healthy walk to the beach, but the big blue bus stop is just down the street, and gets you to Santa Monica Pier in 5 minutes. I was in Santa Monica for a business conference, and Shelley's flat offered a clean, comfortable, interesting, convenient and value for money stay.