I have been traveling non-stop for the past 21 months. I usually rent a place for a month. My stay at Nancy's cottage, also for a month, is at the very top of my list of the places where I have stayed. That is saying something as other month-long rentals included visits to cities such as Florence, Paris, Amsterdam, Buenos Aires and Budapest.

The location is perfect, a couple of blocks from a great assortment of wonderful and friendly bars, restaurants and shops. Oh, and the Pacific Ocean is also a couple of blocks away. The accompanying breeze was another bonus to this cottage. Other pluses were a dishwasher, a washer and dryer and flawless and fast WiFi.

The apartment was very comfortable for myself and would be perfect for couples as well. The kitchen had everything I needed, as did the bathroom, featuring a great shower. The bed was comfy and there was a nice big closet and a dresser.

I committed to feeding two very cool cats, Jack and Bella. Feeding them was easy and a pleasure. (NO kitty litter duty! They are outside almost all the time.) It can get lonely when you're on your own so having the cats was actually a comfort.

Nancy was terrific from first contact through to my leaving. I am embarrassed to say I locked myself out on a Friday night. She responded to my text within minutes and had smartly arranged to keep a key with a friend just a short walk from her place. I was back in the cottage in a matter of minutes. In every email, text and and conversation she exuded warmth and exhibited a welcoming tone. That is rare in my experience and I am grateful.

I can't really adequately convey how much I enjoyed this place, the neighborhood and the cats. I will miss them. First and foremost, however, I appreciate Nancy's kindness, consideration and responsiveness. I wish her good health and happiness. During my stay, she enhanced both for myself.