We never met the host, but we knew that she was next door if we needed her help. The apartment is very well appointed - just like home lots of pots, pans, dishes, towels, etc. There was salt and pepper, sugar, coffee filters, olive oil - the basics. There was bath gel and shampoo/conditioner. The apartment was quiet, and very comfortable. Everything looks new and is very tasteful. The bedding (including the sofa bed) is on the firm side, but pretty comfortable. The BART is walking distance, and the location is a 5 minute drive to College Ave and restaurants, Rockridge, and to the freeway and a short distance (8 minutes) to the UC campus, and ten minutes to downtown Oakland. All in all, lots of space in a great location, and all details are well handled.