A hotel room pretty looks the same in Seattle or Mumbai. Meh. If you want to capture the flavor, the spirit of a city, you stay with friends - or make new friends via Airbnb. Fremont is a bustling, close-in suburb with an upscale Bohemian vibe, Ballard for grown-ups: amazing restaurants, breweries and shopping, with stunning views of the Seattle skyline. You're close to I-5, but far enough removed from the city to catch your breath.
Darren has done a magnificent job of creating a warm, welcoming suite in his lower level, with everything you could possibly want or need for your stay - and then some. Tip-toe past the (very Zen) Japanese garden and you're in for a treat: fully-stocked kitchenette, big-screen TV, well-appointed bathroom and a huge, sprawling, comfortable living area. The bedroom is private and plush. My wife's description: all the amenities of a 5-star resort, cozy, comfortable and well thought out. Darren had a vision and he executed it perfectly.
Darren even provides a notebook of suggestions on where to go and what to see in the neighborhood, which was very helpful. It helped to get us up to speed much faster and get us comfortable with our new surroundings. But he went the extra mile, meeting and greeting, going way above the call of duty meeting new tenants. We were both thoroughly impressed with the level of hospitality and genuine friendliness on full display. We will be staying there again and encourage you to check out this amazing property if your travels take you to Seattle. I predict you won't be disappointed.