We stayed with Cathy for about a week or so. It was our first time in California so we were unsure of where to stay, but we did know that we wanted to visit San Fransisco for most of our visit. This place is located in a good area in Oakland, Rockridge to be specific, and felt safe; however, we did carpool most of the nights to the area just in case. Her place is also close to great restaurants and shops and just a couple blocks from the Bart. Cathy was very responsive and helpful throughout our stay and so was Nadia and Cathy's son, whom we ran into a couple of times. The house was very quirky and unique. The attic is also a nice little sunny retreat just outside of the big city, which was very heartwarming. I would recommend her place to others in the future.