How to start? Our stay at Ali and David's house was absolutely perfect. To begin with, Ali and David were there to greet us as we walked up their street with our bags, fresh off the nearby bus stop and barely able to tear our eyes away from the incredibly beautiful gardens and historic homes that make up their neighborhood. Our room upstairs consisted of an entire floor to ourselves, complete with a kitchen/dining area (with tea and coffee!), a bathroom with shower, a smaller bedroom with a twin bed and rocker, and a huge bedroom with a queen comfy bed, table and chairs, couch, and big window overlooking the lovely tree lined street. They were such friendly, sweet folks, giving us advice about restaurants, vintage stores, public transportation, and the terrific arts district that is a few easy blocks walk from their house. My daughter and I so enjoyed trading stories with them, talking about books and art, and just marveling at the lush, gorgeous gardens all around them. They and their beautifully appointed old house helped make our first trip to Portland magical indeed. We can't wait to come back!