Akiko welcomed me in her beautiful house when I arrived and I felt at home right from the start. She showed me around and told me how everything works. Her dog is very kind, he was most of the time in the living room or in the front garden. My room offered everything I needed for my stay and the bed was super comfy. Everything was clean and I could use the kitchen and bathroom whenever I needed.
Santa Monica is a very nice neighbourhood and I could walk to the beach and the Pier from Akiko's place easily.
I would definitely recommend staying here if you search for a place in Santa Monica and the next time I travel, I will check this place for availability first :)