This place is just amazing and im so glad we have found it as its the only place i will want to stay ever again in the bay area! Stopped for 5 days to break up the trip from hawaii to england, usually stay in sf but places seemed expensive and heavily booked so decided to try lake merritt and were amazed. The house is just off the lake, which is great for runners/cyclists like me to go out every morning. It has a shop around the corner and cafe across the roads. 10 mins walk up the lake brings you to a lovely area with shops,restaurants,trader joes,walgreens,etc. Everything you need is super close even without a car. 20mins walk to bart,or bus stop at end of road. The cottage itself is spacious, all looks new and clean and well designed. Lovely large living room/dining room/kitchen area with a desk area off it leading to a gorgeous bedroom up 2 stairs so is separate from rest of house. Such a comfy bed and pillows, we loved it, and so quiet, we couldnt believe it you cant here any noise at all. Lovely bathroom and having all the products there for us to use was great as had nothing with me!! Kitchen looks brand new and complete with everything you need. Internet was quick. There is nothing we didnt like or would change or improve, it was just perfect. Didnt meet jane but spoke to her and she was so nice and helpful. The original booking/enquiries were dealt with so quick and so well it made everything so easy and stress free, the replies came back in minutes of me sending usually. This is how hosts should be always!! We were surprised by how much we loved staying in Oakland as thought we were missing out by not being over in sf, but it was totally the opposite! Will always stay here on our trips from now on, and always in this house if possible! Dont miss out on friday evenings at the museum or saturdays farmers market, both within walking distance. Thanks jane for having a great house and being so nice.x