We were delighted to stay at the Lovely Lakeshore unit in Oakland for four nights of our two week stay in California.
Cozy enough for the single traveler but large enough to accommodate a family, the Lovely Lakeshore unit was spacious enough for us to spread out our gear and repack our wardrobe (and assorted purchases) that we brought for various events and activities. It was the perfect last stop before the wedding we were scheduled to attend near the end of our trip.
After a week and a half of traveling, my daughter and I reveled in the separate spaces of the bedroom and living area. In fact, despite the comfortable bed we could share, or the floor mattress that was readily available, she instead chose to cover the couch with bedding and slept comfortably there for the four nights. She would have taken that couch home with her if she could have fit it in her suitcase!
Irene’s guest manual is thorough but reminders are conveniently posted throughout the unit for guests so we didn’t need to keep referring to the manual for instructions. She provides recommendations for local businesses and upon request, was able to furnish me with the name of a local nail salon just down the street in preparation for the wedding we were set to attend a day after our departure.
Irene has curated a well thought out space, with basic essentials and some equipment to ensure guests are comfortable regardless if for a brief or prolonged stay. Located minutes from bus stops, shops, restaurants, and other resources, we only began to scratch the surface of exploring the area during our time there.
The comforting, home-like atmosphere, light chatter of young children, and the occasional tippity-tap-tap of their small dog’s feet upstairs were reassuring sounds of family life that made us a little homesick and readied us to return to our family, pets, and the rhythm of life in our own home.
We cannot thank Irene enough for providing a truly lovely home-away-from home and we highly recommend her rental for anyone who needs a clean, quaint space during their time in Oakland.