Amy's studio is indeed very charming and located in what's probably the quietest neighborhood of Oakland. I had breakfast every morning on the deck outside, between the bluebirds, hummingbirds and chipmunks (squirrels?). Oakland has an interesting vibe to it, and is conveniently located to reach downtown San Francisco. I spent two days there and took the ferry (Jack London Square) and the BART (Fruitvale) . A car is advisable, both to get to Amy's place as well as to get around in Oakland and/or San Francisco