This lovely home is well located to access all DC has to offer. We felt comfortable, safe, and were even able to wave and exchange greetings with a few of Sam's friendly neighbors during our 3-night stay.

Location/Safety: This home is nestled in DC's Southeast quadrant that's gradually undergoing gentrification. The neighborhood is well established with mature trees and sidewalks, and we found this particular block removed and quiet. We parked our personal vehicle on the street and didn't have any issues doing so. The location is exceedingly convenient to downtown DC and Nationals stadium, not to mention the easy access to 395/295 to reach the suburbs just outside the beltway.

The Home: Sam did a wonderful job renovating this older home that evokes memories of the older houses in Avalon, a beach community on the south Jersey shore. The white picket fence lends an air of Americana that's emphasized by the broad front porch that provides plenty of shade and respite from the afternoon sun.

Decor/Amenities: While I'm not usually a fan of modern, minimalist design, Sam utilizes this style quite well. In fact, I would go so far as to say it's a smart choice, as the interior provides a sense of peace and calm that's refreshing after a hectic day of travel, seeing family and touring.

Each space is clean, bright and airy, the furnishings comfortable, and the bedding/blankets/towels soft and clean. There's a collection of brochures/maps in the living room, and the large kitchen island provides ample work surface/dining space.

You'll appreciate the well stocked kitchen that includes a coffee maker, 4-slot toaster, rapid boil tea kettle, ample dishware, glassware, utensils, pots/pans, place mats and cutting board. I was surprised to find a cheese grater, wire mesh strainer, and sea salt/whole black pepper... both jars fitted with grinder. There's also a plentiful supply of Colombian coffee packs and a generous tea box with a good selection. The gas range/oven for the cook is a definite plus and is easy to use.

The half bath downstairs contains a half sink that's playful yet practical. The upstairs bathroom includes a stacked washer/dryer, plus iron/ironing board. The sink basin and surround is quite large, and you'll enjoy the fun waterfall faucet. The shower space is plentiful and the water temperature perfect. Sam provides a hair dryer, soap and shampoo for his guests and the bathrooms are bright and well stocked.

Each bedroom has a double closet with mirrored doors that open/close easily. Each closet has about 6 hangars, and also includes a bench with cushion that you can pull out and place at the foot of each bed to assist with dressing. This is a quite thoughtful amenity. The beds and pillows are comfortable and provide a good night's rest, plus there are extra pillows, blankets and sheets in the closets.

The Host: Sam is exceptionally responsive and is extremely easy to work with. He knows what he's doing, and therefore recommend him and his house enthusiastically and unreservedly.