This was my first Airbnb experience. Fortunately, it was with hosts Mark and Kathy! Not only do they have an amazing house (beautiful, clean, spacious, exactly as pictured, well-located), but went out of their way to describe how the Airbnb system works, explaining processes that were not clear from the Airbnb website. I learned that this kind of extra effort and communication are typical of this friendly and accommodating couple. For instance: they moved me to a bigger bedroom when the occupants checked out; when I mentioned things I missed that were in the first room, Mark immediately got/installed them for me; when I said the flavored coffee they drink wasn’t my favorite, Mark got some dark Italian roast and ground it for me—although they aren’t listed as serving breakfast! I could go on and on with examples of the special touches in their home and gestures that went way beyond what was required. They were extremely flexible, indicating that they could be there with help and to talk (or not) just as much or little as the particular guests desire. Since I wasn’t in San Diego for an event or as a tourist, but just to relax, I spent more time with them than their typical guests, and found them to be charming and fascinating to get to know—and people who feel like friends after only 3 days! One small detail I need to mention to forestall anyone’s disappointment. I’d been staying in a hotel with a heated pool, so when I saw their pool photos, I assumed theirs was. It is not regularly heated during cool January weather, but that was fine with me as it was relaxing just to sit by the lovely pool or even view it from indoors. Thank you, Mark and Kathy; I so enjoyed staying in your home and getting to know you. What a wonderful introduction to Airbnb!