David was quick to respond to questions and we appreciated his advice about the neighborhood.

The flat is roomy and well laid out with lots of light, nice furnishings, interesting artwork, gorgeous original floors, and beautiful rugs. The kitchen is efficient and spotless and the bedrooms have comfortable queen beds and nice bedding. A lovely home away from home!

We had researched neighborhoods and learned the area around Lake Merritt is one of the safest in Oakland. We found it to be a great base for our quick visit between a rail trip from Chicago and our flight back to Oregon: just over 3 miles from the train station in Emeryville and 10.5 to the Oakland Airport. There's a Whole Foods store just a few blocks away and we discovered on Yelp before our arrival that Kitchener Oakland is just a few doors down; we were able to buy delicious Cornish pasties (meat pies) for a wonderful dinner in. Others in our group headed out for a great Italian meal but it was hard to choose as there are many nice restaurants within walking distance.

Lake Merritt is just a few blocks away and has a ring trail - we went for an afternoon run and returned in the evening with lots of families and joggers to see the lights and watch the black-crowned night herons fishing.

I would definitely stay in this neighborhood and this flat again if we're back in the area - highly recommended.