My husband, 12 year-old son, and I stayed at Alla's place for 3 nights. Alla was very welcoming and helpful in getting us oriented when we arrived late from a delayed flight. We felt at home right away. Our son slept on the pull-out couch and us on the full bed in the bedroom. Over the next few days we found the location convenient for public transportation. There are several nearby streets that offer many options for shopping and restaurants. We especially liked sitting on the screened in porch in the mornings and evenings. If you are looking for all the fluff and comfort of a hotel, this may not be for you. But if you are looking for an authentic experience where you get to discover a neighborhood in Allston and glimpse what it might be like to live there, you'll love staying at Alla's.