My boyfriend and I were looking for a place in the Bay for a Covid staycation celebrating our 2-year anniversary, one that came with a kitchen so we could enjoy a nice home-cooked meal. As soon as I saw Jesse’s place, I knew I found THE ONE. While the apartment is small and old (part of the charm) we LOVED how cozy and tastefully decorated the place was. The kitchen was the biggest plus, because we spent most of our weekend staying in, cooking, and eating. There was a small issue with the broken espresso machine but Jesse responded quickly, and anyway there are plenty of markets close by so I was able to get myself a caffeine fix. {By the way, Berkeley Bowl was an excellent referral! My boyfriend and I found some fresh lamb and ingredients for our anniversary dinner together.} It was just so nice to be seated across from a table enjoying a quiet meal...these days, these little things really do count. The flow and layout of the apartment made it easy to heat up- we left the doors open throughout the day so that the heat would move through and the place became nice and toasty very efficiently, the little heater by the bed was a nice added touch, as someone who gets cold feet regularly. We had space on the coffee table to play some of the board and card games we brought, but if we were bored the smart TV and the expansive library in the hallway were there to help with the entertainment! {I was even surprised to see the Tagalog-English dictionary, as I am Filipino and have rarely seen them in print!} The bed was perfectly firm and soft at the same time, we slept so well and often found it difficult to get out of bed! There is a large closet with laundry, and though we didn’t use it, it’s nice to have just in case. This place really is perfect for what it is, and gave us an excuse to hang out in Oakland again, as we haven’t done much of since the pandemic began. The walls are a little thin, and when we got in we could hear people on the other side of the wall shuffling plates and opening cabinets and things, but things quiet down by the evening so it wasn’t a huge issue. (I’m sure they heard us rolling our dice around 11 am too!) Very much appreciated extras throughout the place are the slippers provided and air filter. Windows are easy to open, and the place quickly fills up with light. Oh, and most light switches have dimmers...a tiny thing but we loved it! Jesse is also quick to respond, personable, very kind, and accommodating- which makes all the difference! A gorgeous place means nothing if the hosts aren’t hospitable and genuinely enjoy having guests stay. We really enjoyed our short but meaningful stay at Jesse’s, and can’t wait to return in the future. Thank you again!