As a long-term Airbnb user (since 2015), I have stayed in Airbnbs all over the world - India, China, all over the United States; these include probably a dozen in Oakland and Berkeley, beautiful homes on Cape Code, castle-like places in Delhi. Josephine's is the best one. There are plenty of Airbnbs that by their location or the specifics of the place will make for a remarkable vacation: see dozens of places in Marin or Sonoma, or one of my best friend's Nalin's place in Delhi, a palatial apartment with 18th century artwork overlooking an ancient mausoleum in Hauz Khas Village, the most beautiful Airbnb on earth. But for a quiet stay where you are looking for peace, ease, convenience, cleanliness, design, and utility, Josephine's tops the list.
THE DESIGN: Josephine has done something remarkable here. The bathroom tiles; the industrial light fixtures in the bathroom and the bedroom; the careful appointment of crockery and the way it sits around the open plan kitchen. It's all attractive and useful and in the right spot, but somehow the design works seamlessly across the apartment, giving you a sense of peace and ease as you transition from one activity to another. It's an achievement.
THE BEDROOM: the bed itself is supremely comfortable. The pillows, the duvet, the color choice, it gives bedroom a warm feel to the eye that is matched by the sleeping experience, which is excellent. The whole apartment has a minimalist feel, but the bedroom encapsulates it perfectly. Also the shelving: I think it may be Elfa, but whatever it is, it works brilliantly.
EASE OF ENTRY: It's beautiful to come into and out of the place. Easy, pleasant, lovely. Lots of nice wood on the fence and in the yard. Places to sit amidst greenery.
Finally, the washing machine and the espresso machine and the kitchen: everything works well, everything is there, and it's super easy to engage each application and appliance.
Go and stay at Josephine's. But please don't tell your friends. Otherwise it will be so much harder to book. ;)