This place was absolutely perfect. After two weeks on trains ir staying with family and having full daily agendas we couldn't have hoped for a more ideal, private, secluded and comfortable spot to unwind and spend 100% of our time doing whatever we wanted.
Highlights:
- excellent location, near Berkely campus where I swam, the trendy hipster neighborhood Temescal, a Safeway and Trader Joe's and the BART station a short walk away
- fascinating neighborhood for walking and exploring the full range of housing and living in Oakland (from working class to the wealthy)
- stylish oasis, well designed with all the basics supplied (including a mesmerizing Apple TV)
- design and thoughtful layout of the house and the tranquil backyard (a lime tree and stone birdbath are particularly nice touches) create a truly peaceful secluded retreat from the noise and cares of the world.
- the backyard is shared with the main house. During our week there we had almost unlimited use of the backyard, like it was our own
= great selection of books
- extensive cooking would be a challenge given space limitations, but it is doable. We managed very well cooking eggs and soup, toast, various fruit bread and cheese we stored in the fridge and a few dinners out
= no washer / dryer in unit but there are three laundromats a short walk nearby
- our host Colin was a gracious host who was available for any advice or help (he is a very prompt responder to emails :) . )
- we would return for sure. It's a great little Zen=like cottage in a very desirable yet accessible and unpretentious Oakland neighborhood. You can relax or throw yourself inti the local scene.
- nice host, very good value if you want a unique and visually pleasing place to stay