I had an amazing experience staying at Gaylene's place. The space was large, light and beautifully hip with an amazing view of San Francisco. I slept like a baby on the comfy bed and awoke to sunshine and the sight of not one but two bridges. Sweet! I didn't end up using the charming fireplace, but I did enjoy coffee and breakfast in the well-stocked shared kitchen. I can be allergic to cats, but the guest quarters were so clean that I had no issues.

The location of the house -- at the tippy top of a steep hill -- felt so San Francisco. It was a refreshing walk to the train and a quick ride to downtown. I felt safe walking in her neighborhood and looking at all the cool different houses and community gardens. I even ran along the Bay at one point, which took me in and out of interesting neighborhoods.

What made the experience even more special, though, was the hospitality of Gaylene herself. I felt very welcome in her space, like she was happy to share her "gratitude house" with me, though I always felt my privacy was respected. She is a singular hostess with a generous spirit; I plan to stay there my next time in SF.