Russell's place was just lovely. I imagine the patio pictures might have drawn you into checking out his home - and you'd be right to be curious. The patio is extra charming and is a welcomed oasis from the rest of the city. His home is in Hillcrest, which is super charming and right off Balboa Park. It's a quick bike ride to North Park, Little Italy, the Harbor, etc. Biking back up the hill to Hillcrest isn't as easy as going down :) When I arrived Russell was there to meet me and give me a tour. He's a delightful person and very thoughtful in his hosting. My room had a bottle of wine waiting on me! It was also his birthday weekend so I got to share cookies with him. Can't say that happens every time! The room was stylish, clean and the bed was super comfortable. The home is walking distance from Fourth and Fifth avenues which have ample restaurants and bars. An Uber ride to nearby neighborhoods (North Park, University Heights, Little Italy) was only about $7. Would recommend his home to anyone and would stay there again if I visited SD.