Casita is a large, comfortable room with a kitchen area separated from a seating area by a really good-sized marble counter, with a very comfortable double bed at the other end. Off the room is a small bathroom with shower and WC. On my visit it was absolutely spotless. It is well furnished and well supplied, although note that the kitchen does not have a hob or oven (microwave only). There is an iron and an ironing board in a very sizeable walk-in cupboard (closet).

My arrival time caused some back and forth and put Carla and her husband to a bit of trouble and they were completely fantastic and helpful about that. I was made to feel extremely welcome but also left very much to my own devices after that, which was just the right balance. I had no need to ask for any help during my stay, but I'm sure it would have been promptly and gladly given had the need arisen.

Casita is in the back yard of the main house, entered by a side gate, but feels very private. The location is wonderful: the very verdant streets of the Hayward area, near the park, ten minutes walk from downtown San Mateo with every kind of shop and restaurant imaginable, minutes walk away from a local laundrette and some other facilities on El Camino Real. Easy access to El Camino, 101 by car.

I can't recommend Casita highly enough.