Our stay with Lia an Garry was, simply put, the best! Before we ever arrived, we felt so welcome - Lia even offered to pick us up at the metro station down the street so we didn't have to lug our suitcases up in the heat.

When we arrived, Lia and Garry greeted us like friends, and gave us a tour of their wonderful home, full of Lia's amazing photographs, and all kinds of books, cameras, and wonderful furniture.

My husband and I had reserved the Serene Private Retreat, and it lived up to its name. It was lovely and cool, homey and luxurious, and SPOTLESSLY CLEAN. I am never fully comfortable in a motel room, but I was in this lovely room. Lia does not miss a thing! Everything anyone could want was in this room, from convenient plugs for cell phones by the bed down to pretty little holders on the dresser to put jewelry at night. The bed was extremely comfortable, and there were extra blankets and comforters in the closet.

The bathroom was beautifully renovated, with loads of thick towels, a hairdryer, soap, shampoo and conditioner...everything you need.

Our son stayed in the den room down the hall, and said that the fold out couch was more comfortable then most beds he has slept in. When it became clear that our two sons were not going to willingly share the bed, Lia went completely out of her way to make sure our other son got a comfortable place to sleep.

Breakfast was perfect, with a wonderful breakfast area built in the back of the kitchen. Lia went out every day and got fresh pastries to have along with the yogurt choices, cereals, milk, hard-boiled eggs and breakfast bars that she provided. There was always a large pot of freshly brewed, delicious coffee waiting, and fresh fruit on the table. Loads of teas and hot cocoa was also available. This is all along side the jar of bakery cookies in the kitchen, and arranged on plates in our rooms (along side the jar of candy!)

I cannot speak highly enough of the welcoming warmth and kindness that Lia and Garry showed us, or for the comfortable, clean, delightful home they have. It truly felt like a "home away from home" and we will DEFINITELY be going back every time we are in the Los Angeles area.