Akiko was very responsive and confirmed my request almost immediately. Her place is in a nice quiet location yet near a major road for easy access. It's quite a distance from the beach, I walked it but would not recommend it unless you enjoy walking. It's close to a bike station (on 17th St) so I rode to the beach and to Santa Monica Blvd, which has plenty of buses (704) to Hollywood and LA. The house is also on a bus route so if you don't have a car you should be covered. Akiko made me feel welcome immediately, and had fruit and candy in the room. She prepared fresh coffee in the mornings, which was a great start to the day! Thanks for the warm welcome and great stay, Akiko!