I wish i could keep this incredible oasis all to myself but i guess i'll do the honorable thing and write the glowing review these 2 kind folks deserve!
Check in was a breeze with Sandra meeting me to go over neighborhood details (public transit, local markets, dog parks, etc).
The studio space itself is in the back of the main home and feels secluded and private, plus beautifully appointed and super clean. (If you bring your dog, there's a short gate to keep your pup confined in the fenced yard with you.) The view of the backyard through the expansive wall of glass feels like you're in the jungle. Just breathtaking. There's even a shaded picnic table and plenty of outdoor seating for meals and chilling. The trumpet vine was in bloom (August) and it's perfume filled the air.
There is a recommended market across from West Oakland BART but it was closed on the (Sunday?) day i wanted to hit it via a 15 min walk. You'd want to drive to a regular grocery store from here or Caviar does deliver. The 2-burner cook top (and microwave) worked well for my 1-person meals. Also came stocked with everything to get me started. Drinks in the fridge, a few staples in the pantry (coffee, soup, pasta, peanut butter), plenty of toilet paper and toiletries.
While you can hear the neighbors on their deck, chattering parakeets, BART train and an occasional firework at night – that's just standard city noise and was not a problem for me but might be if you're not used to an 'urban' environment. This is in West Oakland, so you do have to be aware of your surroundings. My person and my car were safe during my visit, but be reminded to leave NOTHING in your car.
Sandra and Donald were communicative and attentive but permitted me my privacy. I stayed for almost 2 weeks and WFH via the kitchen table. Note there is no tv, but i watched Netflix on my laptop. No problem!
There was nothing that could have improved my stay here. I appreciate them both for opening their home to me and checking in throughout my stay. I can't wait to go back! See you soon, Sandra and Donald!