We had a fantastic stay in Oakland, thanks to our airb&b. The backyard table under wisteria, fresh strawberries, raspberries, pineapple tomatillos growing in the garden, the sweet smell of jasmine wafting through the house thanks to the trellis outside, two beautiful and very friendly cats, a piano for one child to practice on everyday, and a guitar for the other so she wouldn't miss her lessons, a fully equipped kitchen, beautifully sunlit house... the list goes on. My husband has cat allergies, but he did not have any reaction to the two long-haired felines we housed with. I guess that is a testimony to how well-aired the house is.
Steve is a thoughtful host; we lacked for nothing. And the instructions were on the ball. To the wonderful list of Oakland recommendations Steve provides, I'd add the Farmers' Market on Saturdays, Vik's Chaat for Indian food (and groceries) in Berkeley, and Burma Superstar too (if you can-- for a moment-- put aside your distaste for their abysmal labor politics).
Our children felt sad leaving Steve's and his family's home esp. since they'd grown quite attached to Fluffington and Purrsephone. Thank you for everything, Steve.