I thoroughly enjoyed staying at Tommy's place. As a former airbnb host (and frequent guest), I appreciate the amount of care and pride Tommy and his family put into not only their space, but also into being great hosts.

First, the space is exactly as advertised. It is sunny, quiet, clean, comfortable and very well appointed. They provide everything you might need in the kitchen (including—thank god—a French Press coffee maker that I filled every morning with beans from nearby coffee-nerd-cafe-Intelligentsia); the futon bed is very comfortable; the bathroom is all white tile and claw foot tub goodness. Even the water pressure in the shower was good. I am telling you: care and pride.

Second, Tommy and family are gracious, welcoming hosts. Communication was immediate and professional. Once I had made the booking, Tommy sent over an orientation sheet that provided a great primer on the neighborhood. And once I checked in, they made sure I had everything I needed and that I was having a good time :)

Third, the neighborhood. I love Venice. It is very walkable and charming and provides a lot of good eats and coffee options. The whole area (and especially Abbot Kinney) fall heavily into the wealthy hipster scene, so if that stuff makes your eyeballs roll in your head, this may not be the LA neighborhood for you. But jeez if they don't have some amazing stores to buy raw denim and get expensive hair cuts.