If you have stayed at West Coast Villa, in one of our Vacation Rental Homes we’d love to get your feedback. It will also help others who are thinking about staying with us to hear honest opinions from our past guests.
Guest Reviews For West Coast Villa
October 2013, MissionI’mPossible, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York, Miami, “An Abundance of Blessings!”
Overall, our stay at the villa was a phenomenal experience! Comfortably accommodated our Mission I’mPOSSIBLE team for the Nike Women’s Marathon. Memories created in this home were truly unforgettable. We came as strangers and left as one strong family.
To the future renters of this home – be encouraged knowing that you’re in good hands. The owners of this home are absolutely so kind, gracious and loving. We look forward to coming back next year!
October 2013, Larner Family, Ohio “Exceeded Our Expectations!”
This home was everything promised and more. Don was the perfect host. We were met at the house and given the “guided tour”. Three bedrooms, each with it’s own bath, plenty of towels and even extra soap, shampoo and conditioner. The kitchen was huge and fully equipped. Plenty of paper products, spices and all the utensils you could ask for.
The house is located in a quiet residential neighborhood that is within a mile of the freeway. There is a small shopping center within walking distance. Just a short drive down the main street brings to you every type of eating establishment you could think of.
The bedrooms were very well appointed with each room having satellite TV.
My group consisted of my wife and I, our son and daughter-in-law and there two children (ages 8 and 9). Even with this group, there was plenty of space for quiet time for me and Grandma as well as a huge living room for us all to congregate.
The West Coast Villa really did exceed our expectations. PLUS, with the cost of hotels in San Francisco, this was really a cost effective way for us to have a marvelous time. We would absolutely do it again.
September 2013, 50 Year Nursing Class Reunion, “This one is the winner!”
Our group of nursing school classmates gets together yearly, but we wanted our 50 year reunion to be VERY special. WestCoast Villa met our expectations. The house is exactly as pictured. It was spotlessley clean. 15 of us called it home for 4 days in September. Five others visited for daytime activities. It is located in an upscale neighborhood with plenty of parking. We spent much of our time gathered around the two tables in the kitchen area, feeling very much at home. The kitchen is the nicest I have seen in any vacation rental..making meal preparation a breeze. Two cook tops and two dishwashers! We even hand picked fruit from the trees in the yard. Beds were very comfortable with plenty of extra bedding if it got chilly. The owners are gracious and very accessable. They met us on arrival and gave us a full tour..even set up an extra twin mattress in the study. The master bathroom is jaw dropping beautiful.The hot tub appeared brand new. Safeway was within walking distance. Access to the freeway was easy. It was a short drive to the Bay Bridge and over to San Francisco for Beach Blanket Babylon. On another day we took the ferry from Jack London Square ( a half hour away) right to the stadium for a Giants game. There is also a large shopping outlet just a few minutes away. This home is so large, lovely and welcoming that we were happy to return home every time we ventured out. I have rented several vacation homes in at least 3 states and this one is the winner!
September 2013, Kimble Family, Ohio, “The perfect gathering place for a family get together”
Whenever possible my family tries to stay together for events, like my niece’s wedding in San Leandro. With a close-knit family of over 20 members coming from 6 different states, we needed a property that was spacious, convenient to areas in the East Bay, close to transportation into San Fran, and well supplied for eating in. West Coast Villas was ideal for our needs and exceeded anything we imagined. We rented both Villa I and Villa II and their proximity to each other made for seamless interactions between all the aunts, uncles, and cousins. The property was spotless, with top-of-line appliances and furnishings. There are plenty of gathering areas and lots of table service and seating for meals. We had 33 people for dinner the night before the wedding and it never felt cramped. Having two stoves and two dishwashers in the larger villa eliminated wasting paper products and allowed a variety of foods to be prepared at the same time. These properties had all the extras that made for a luxurious stay, such as the hot tub, comfortable beds, wifi, access to a computer and printer, plenty of parking space, and beautiful landscaping. The owners and hosts of the villas were outstandingly generous, responsive, and flexible to our needs. I heartily recommend these properties to any groups or families staying in the Castro Valley area.
August 2013, Central Illinois, 4 families “We truly loved it here!”
We stayed at this amazing home for 8 days in August and we couldn’t have been more pleased. The house was in a great location-minutes from the Oakland Airport-and close to the highway entrance as well as 2 different lines from Bart. But at the same time, the neighborhood was quiet and our street had little traffic, not including the deer we saw running down the road as we left one morning! The home was spacious with more than enough room for the 4 families (12 people) we had staying there. The layout was fabulous with an enormous gathering area, while the bedrooms and bathrooms were secluded and private. The kitchen had 2 of each appliance which made it easy for us to prepare meals large enough for our group. The kids loved going to the beautiful backyard and picking fruit to snack on. The owners were friendly and helpful, always available but never intrusive. We have done these annual family trips all over the world for the last several years, and this was our favorite home by far. We truly loved it here!
June 2013, Haynes Family, Kentucky, “The home was immaculate”
This by far made our trip to San Fransico wonderful. The home was immaculate and the owners were wonderful in accomodating. The home was well stocked with all amenities you need in traveling. We could not have asked for anything better. I would recommend them and if ever in the area again, they will be the one I will contact. Thank you Don & Krista! The Haynes Family
May, 2013, Luiz Wedding Group, California, Family Reunion and Wedding
My family and I rented this property for a family reunion for my son’s wedding in nearby Pleasanton. We stayed there for 10 days and accommodated all our direct family and members from overseas and friends as well as being able to invite other wedding party guests for meals. It was so much more relaxing to be able to socialize in a home than in a hotel lobby!! The property lived up to all our expectations and the photos and descriptions were very accurate. Don was very helpful and prompt in answering any of our questions and his wife, Krista, even helped sew on a suit button as we were leaving for the wedding ceremony!!! Everything you could want was provided . The location has close access to freeways and is about 1 mile from a BART station. There is a Safeway store within walking distance and a Trader Joes and Costco in short driving distance. We had a wonderful stay including wine tasting and sightseeing trips into the city. Would highly recommend this listing!!
November 2012, Seuis Family Reunion, California, “The Second Time We Have Rented This Villa”
This Villa is a beautiful and well maintained home. It has a very warm and welcoming charm. The beds are very comfortable and all the rooms are beautifully decorated. The bathrooms are beautiful, clean and well supplied It has a spacious kitchen that is well equipped and so pleasant to work in. The owners are gracious and helpful We had a wonderful family reunion. All the family members were very pleased wtih the accomadations. This is the second time we have rented this Villa and we hope to do it again.
September 2012, Kakos Family, Georgia, “Fabulous!”
We stayed at West Coast Villa for our daughter’s wedding. The house is fabulous & truly accommodates 10 people & more. We have rented many houses but this was the best. The reason I say this is first of all, the villa is just what the add pro-ports. There is enough seating, kitchen utensils, cooking supplies, cutlery and dinnerware for more than 10 people. The house is as lovely as the photos & the owners are wonderful. We also rented Villa II so most of the time we had 14 -16 people or more & we were in the fabulous kitchen as if we were in our own home. You cannot go wrong with is rental.
And again… We rented this house in conjunction with Villa I for our daughter’s wedding. The home is warm & comfortable. The rooms are well equipped & so is the kitchen. The photos are true to the house. We could not have been happier when we arrives. The owners are wonderful & will do all they can to make your stay top notch. This is the way to go!
July 2012, Medina Family, California, “It Was Wonderful”
We were 17 people in this house and it was wonderful. The kids had fun, we had fun. It was very confortable and you have everything you need in the property. Very quiet place and very good location if you want to travel all around San Francisco. Definetly we’ll come back.
July 2012, Revane Family, Arizona Accurately Describes Home
Home was clean and in great condition. We were not disappointed. Our family enjoyed the spacious home with plenty of places for everyone. The location was great for our daily side trips and trips to the City-easy to access the freeways! The owners were there to greet us and answer any questions which was most helpful! We would certainly rent again and recommend this home to our friends!
June 2012, Schuman Family, Texas – “I would highly recommend this house…”
This property was above and beyond everthing I could have ever expected in a vacation house. Our family of seven stayed here and all had separate bedrooms and bathrooms. The living areas were large enough for meals together, planning our days in San Francisco, and doing our big puzzle on a table. The information given to us before and during the trip by our hostt made our stay in Castro Valley so much easier. The house was maintained very well and the kitchen stocked for every cooking need you have. Easy to get there from airport, and close to BART system. Our host was on hand to help us with questions on the house, directions, and good local places to eat. I would highly recommend this house for large families. I was very glad the pictures matched the house. We would stay again if in the area.
April 2012, Hooper Family Reunion, California “Highly recommend it to others”
This place was wonderful! Rather than having to book multiple hotel rooms for family members, we got to stay all together in a house! It was like a home away from home. The owners were very easy to work with and we would highly recommend it to others.
March / April 2012, 3 Couples From Nova Scotia, Canada “We’d love to return.”
This property was everything we hoped for and more. The condition of the property was super. Don and his family were very accommodating in helping of us out with any questions. The property is close to the major highways in the area so easy access to any where we were headed. Close to a supermarket and kitchen in the unit had everything you’d need. I would recommend this property for a short or long term stay. We’d love to return.
And again, We stayed at this property with my sister and her husband. It is exactly as described. The owners were so helpful prior to and after our arrival. The property is close to major highways making sightseeing very easy. There is a handy supermarket. The amenities in the unit were excellent. It is a great property for a vacation but also very suited for anyone who was going to be in the area for a longer period. I would highly recommend this property to my family and friends and would stay here again myself.
February 20, 2012, Three families traveling together, Chile, South America
We visited the West Coast in February with my family and two more families. 20 in total. 6 adults and 14 children between 20 and 4 years old. Was a fantastic experience. We felt at home. The house is very comfortable with everything you need. We stayed there for 10 days and from there we visited all the attractions of the Bay Area and other places like Stanford, etc. The location is very good and strategic. The neighborhood is very quiet, with many services in the area, including supermarkets, pharmacies, etc., and we definitely recommend West Coast Villa. We really appreciate the hospitality of the owners, Don and his wife, Krista! We really hope to return again in the future..
February 2012, Leadership Training, California “Repeat Customers! Super Experience For A Big Group!”
We love this home, especially when combined with the next door 3 bedroom attached. We are a group of young leaders who use this space for our training for trainers events, our wellness retreats, and general meetings. The beds are super comfortable, the seating areas are awesome, the space is attractive and well appointed as well as accessible and really user friendly. The space is private, the parking plentiful, the diversity of room spaces and configurations is fun for a return group (what room will I get this time?!!!) The owners are attentive and thoughtful and great communicators. The only suggestion we have is the same one we have for nearly every rental space we use…the homes need better kitchen knives, otherwise, totally 100% pleased. We highly recommend!
August, 2011, Dunne Family, “Family From Ireland”
The house exceeded our expectations. A very clean and well equipped home. We enjoyed our week here.
July, 2011, Barrit Family, Southern California, “First Rate Accommodations”
The propertyI is the perfect setting for our memorable family vacation. The house is lovely and welcoming and the landscaping is beautiful. Don and Krista are genuinely nice people. Cooking together is huge part of our family tradition; needless to say the large itchen was fantastic!
July, 2011, Tink Family, Ontario, Canada, “Wow and Perfect!! Two words that come to mind….”
Our family of 6 (4 teenagers) had the opportunity to stay at the West Coast Villa for our 3 day visit to San Francisco. The Villa is conveniently located to all amenities including a Grocery Store within walking distance. The Villa was spotless and well equipped with everything that you would need. It is also a short drive across the Bay Bridge into San Francisco which makes it an ideal location. I would definately recommend this home to friends and family who are planning to vacation in San Francisco or the surrounding area. I would definately stay at this home again!! Don was an amazing host!!
July 2011, Barrits, Long Beach, CA “First Rate Accommodations!”
The West Coast Villa I is the perfect place to stay for a large family. The property is beautiful and very spacious. Don and Krista are great owners and made my family feel very welcomed. We loved the huge kitchen which allowed my family to cook together. This place is a true gem.
June 2011, The Cheslocks, Springfield, Virginia, “I would recommend this accommodation to my best friend.
Everything was Perfect! Very quiet neighborhood – kept the windows open at night. The quality of the furniture and furnishings is very high. Good location – 3 to 5 minutes and we were on I-580. Hope to return in the not-too-distant future.
April 2010
Sydney, Australia
Vacation
Don & Krista,
Thanks for thinking of everything! We had such a lovely stay. It was worth the drive home from San Franciso to relax in your lovely home….& the beds were fab!
We will recommend you to our other friends from Sydney Australia. Thanks again.
McInerneys
December 2009
Guam Family Reunion
Don & Krista, our house worked wonders for our reunion – the main house (Villa I) as a center of activity and the smaller house (Villa II) as a safe haven for after dinner silence. Your landscaping was the first thing I noticed and made all the difference in the world. The roses, the hibiscus, and the healthy fruit-bearing trees made the entire week feel abundant….I especially enjoyed your attention to detail (ex. the shampoo matching the bathrooms, the faux flowers and large painting). This is one family that will never stay in a hotel again after such a wonderful experience. I hope that the laughs and memories that my family leaves in this place fill you with a sense of secondary warmth. Thank you so much!
December 2009
Washington State
Nike
Dear Don & Krista,
Thanks so much for the great house. We really enjoyed our home away from home. Thanks!
December 2009 – February 2010
A special family in need due to a cross country relocation
Florida
Dear Don & Krista, Thank you for everything! You have an immaculate, special home-away-from home vacation villa! Our family was able to truly rest during this time of cross country relocation. Thanks again for your kindness & hospitality. We will always remember your special family and your very cozy villa. Be blessed. The Daniels
October 2009
Collegeville, Minnesota
College Team
Thank you so much! The house was beautiful, the weather was perfect, and the food is amazing! We enjoyedour stay and seeing San Franciso, many of us for the first time has been so much fun. It’s time for us to go back home now, to freezing minnesota. We will miss the sun and the sea, and hopefully it will bring us back here some day. With much love and fond memories.
All the Team
August 2009
Paris, France
Don & Krista, Thank you for everything, we couldn’t have a better house, and a better place to visit San Francisco. We enjoyed your house, it was so wonderful. And if, one day, you decided to go to Paris you will be welcome.
Famille Brunet, Paris, France
July 2009
Netherlands
Family Vacation
Loved to stay at your beautiful home. We visited San Francisco and the beaches at Half Moon Bay. It was great to return to this house and stay here as a family in one place. It had everything, we didn’t miss a thing. You were very kind to us. Thanks. Wish you and your family all the best.
Spierings Family.
July 2009
State of California
You guys Rock!!!
The Robs
May 1 – June 15, 2009
State: California
We never expected to experience a “flood” in our house. But when a pipe burst we had to move out. Thankfully our insurance company put us up at your Villa 2 and what a great place this has been for our family as we waited for the construction crews to finish the work at our house You guys are great – you treated us like family and made our kids feel at home. We’re finally going home but we leave with fond memories.Thanks so much.
A&R
April 2009
Wedding celebration, reception, family reunion
State California
Don & Krista, “Thank you” cannot even begin to express how truly grateful we are to have had the opportunity to enjoy your beautiful villa! Our friends and family truly enjoyed our time here. Andy and I are forever grateful for your hospitality!
February, March & April 2009
China
House Hunting In The San Francisco Bay Area
Dear Don & Krista,
After arriving to the USA from China we stayed at a hotel in San Franciso that was costing us double what you charged us. We had a one room suite (at the hotel), here we had a 3 bedroom house. Thank you for your hospitality because you were more to us than a landlord…you were our friends.
As we searched for a house to buy we really appreciated your expertise Don in construction and you steered us clear of some bad houses. Thank you for all you did for us and how pleasant you made our stay.
Sei
March 2009
RMU women’s Lacrosse Team (30 guests)
State PA
Don & Krista thanks so much for opening your house to our team and showing us your hospitality. The house was gorgeous and was more than we could have ever expected. We made a lot of lasting memories this trip and couldn’t have done that without your house. Thanks again.
January 16-21, 2009
The Caldas & Martins Family
Brasil
We loved your house and your hospitality. The kindness and care you guys show in every detail is just wonderful. Look us up (or your family / friends) if you go to Brasil. Our compliments on a wonderful property and on a wonderful set of hosts!
December 2008 – January 2009
Christmas / New Years Family Reunion
From East Coast, West Coast, Guam
Don & Krista, Your house worked wonders for our reunion – the main house (Villa I) as a center of activity and the smaller house (Villa II) as a safe haven for after dinner silence. Your landscaping was the first thing I noticed and made all the difference in the world. The roses, the hibiscus, and the healthy fruit-bearing trees made the entire week feel abundant….I especially enjoyed your attention to detail (ex. the shampoo matching the bathrooms, the faux flowers and large painting). This is one family that will never stay in a hotel again after such a wonderful experience. I hope that the laughs and memories that my family leaves in this place fill you with a sense of secondary warmth. Thank you so much!
December 2008
Cheyene, Wyoming
Don & Krista – Your home is beautiful and so very relaxing. We had a wonderful stay and saw the man sites of San Francisco. Coming “home” after a long day sightseeing was wonderful.
Narvas from Wyoming.
November 2008
Thanksgiving San Francisco family reunion
State California
We had a wonderful family reunion this Thanksgiving, thanks to your beautiful, spacious, well equipped home and the generosity, thoughtfulness and hospitality of you both. We will see you next year and start a new family tradition! All the best to you and your family.
October 2008
Jakarta, Indonesia
Don & Krista! Thank you for the beautiful house. It is my first visit to Castro Valley even though I had been several times to San Francisco. We felt at home here and my group loved it very much. Thanks again.
Adams & Family
October 2008
Alberta, Canada
Your home has all of the conveniences a person could want or wish for, not a thing missing. Thank you for making our stay in San Francisco memorable..
D Anderson
October 2008 – January 2009
The Discovery Channel Film Crews
All over the USA
Just wanted you to know that “T” came back to us with such positive feedback! He absolutely loved the place and his words exactly “It’s more than we even need.” Thank you for all your help – it was a pleasure being your guest(s).
September 2008
U.S. Open Lawn Bowling Championships
From California, Arizona, PA
All 15 of us arrived to find this great house. We all played for 6 days in Golden Gate Park, Oakland Park and Rossmoor. Some of us won! But we all had a great time. Dinners were prepared, stories exchanged and new friends bonded…Thank you!
September 2008
60th Birthdays…The Canadian gals!
From Canada
West Coast Villa 1 is a remarkably comfortable home away from home; a wonderful home to celebrate our birthdays. Thank you so much. It was great that we could all be together in such a welcoming home…we had a great time. It was so much better than staying in a hotel. Love the hot tub and the warm evenings. Looking forward to coming again.
August 2008
The Kokomo Traveling 12
From Kokomo, IN
We have truly enjoyed our stay at your beautiful Villa. We could not have had a more lovely place to enjoy our friendships and good times! We have taken with us some very special memories. Than you and the best to all your family.
July 2008
The Mistry Family (ages 6-69)
Brampton & Oakville Canada
and Bracknell & Leicaster, England.
Many, many thanks for your hospitality and warm welcome. You made us feel at ease in your wonderful home from the moment we arrived. Every member of our family group (14 in all) will take away special moments of Castro Valley and San Francisco. Most of us hope to return here. Best wishes.
July 2008
Cassinelli & Stoker San Francisco Family Vacation
From Nevada
We would like to thank you very much for sharing your beautiful house with us. We could not have asked for a better place to stay for our wonderful family vacation. We had such a great time in your area….It was like being at home. Hopefully in the future we can return. Thank you for your hospitality. Best regards to both of you and your family.
June 2008
Family Reunion of the Johnstons, Hoods and Adams families
From all over TN and Ohio
The house was perfect, just what we were looking for this week. We had a wonderful time, enjoyed the sightseeing, but mostly the time with each other.
May 2008
Streeton Family
California “West Coast Villa Is A Wonderful Place To Stay!”
Our family just returned from four wonderful nights at the West Coast Villa ll and the Garden Suite. The house is beautiful in every way; lovely furniture, attractive rooms, beautiful kitchen, big bedrooms and bathrooms. We especially loved the attention to details and efforts made in adding all the extras to ensure our stay was comfortable and easy on all of us. We have so many nice things to say about the house and the Robertsons as the owners, we think we might run out of space! Suffice it to say, we highly recommend this lovely house to anyone coming to the bay area. You will be very happy you decided to stay there. A true Northern California treasure! Thank you Don and Krista for your caring and hospitality!Our family just returned from four wonderful nights at the West Coast Villa ll and the Garden Suite. The house is beautiful in every way; lovely furniture, attractive rooms, beautiful kitchen, big bedrooms and bathrooms. We especially loved the attention to details and efforts made in adding all the extras to ensure our stay was comfortable and easy on all of us. We have so many nice things to say about the house and the Robertsons as the owners, we think we might run out of space! Suffice it to say, we highly recommend this lovely house to anyone coming to the bay area. You will be very happy you decided to stay there. A true Northern California treasure! Thank you Don and Krista for your caring and hospitality!
May 2008
Sun Family
New York “Great Experience”
My family had such a great time stay at West Coast Villa II. The house is extremely clean and well-maintained, more beautiful than in pictures and way beyond our expectation. Don and Krista are great hosts and very patient with our requests. We will definitely recommend this place to friends.
March 2008
The family reunion of the Sears family
From California, Indiana, Mass., Connecticut
We had a wonderful visit with our family. The time spent together at your well appointed, comfortable home will be remembered for a long time. The kids loved the hot tub!
March 2008
Anderson Family “Great Time At Villa II”
Florida
We had a great time staying at this home away from home. Everything is well kept and clean. We would highly recommend this place and would choose it again ourselves. You’ll not be disappointed.
January 2008
The Milians & Gonzalez Group
Thanks so much for opening your home to our family. We had a wonderful “New Year 2008”. Your home is very well appointed and made us feel like it was our very own. Kind regards and hoping to visit again!
November 2007
The Day, Kilpatrick, Baker family reunion
From all over the USA
Thank you for allowing us to stay in your home. We had a great time and the accommodations more than exceeded our expectations.
September 2007
All the extended family Melnicks, Raines, Mahoney, Roche
We are The TN / Boston connection
Thanks for your hospitality and sharing your lovely home with us.
August 2007
The Family reunion of the Hamptons, Shanks, Brownlees, Zimmermans
From Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Arizona, California
We all had a great time staying in your home. It was a great ending to our family reunion. You helped us relax and enjoy time together with our family…Thanks for sharing your beautiful home.
August 2007
Stringers and McCluskeys
England “We’ll Be Back!”
Thanks so much for the rental of your lovely home – you made travelling with a small child so much easier! We have really enjoyed our time in San Francisco and could really have done with more time here – I’m sure we’ll be back. The house was perfect for our needs, space, well-equipped and a garden for our son to run around in. Thanks so much for your hospitality.
August 22, 2007
Jo & Angela Badra
From Michigan
It is a first for us to rent a home; we always stayed in hotels. Never anymore! We have enjoyed your lovely home. You are very nice hosts! We will see you again! Thanks & regards.
August 22, 2007
Linda Kligman
From Jenkintown, Pennsylvania
Our whole family enjoyed not just your house but also the thoughtful hospitality from the little table and chairs you set up for our youngest to the paper you had delivered daily for those of us who could read. The house allowed us all to spread out comfortably and seek our own peace or come back together to cook a meal or relax on the porch. We appreciated your prompt attention when we called with questions regarding the hot tub or TV as well as all of the great local tips to getting around. Thank you!
August 16, 2007
Kelli Johnson
City Winter Springs FL
Country USA
We had a wonderful stay at the Villa II with my family. The kids (21, 22, 24, 26yo) had their own bedrooms, the washer & dryer was such a blessings. The provided amenities were so helpful and much appreciated. The gardens were lovely and the kitchen was fabulous. We were right at home and fully intend on using your facility again, once we plan another trip to California. Thank you so much for the terrific job, directions to area malls and the BART and taking family photos for us! We loved becoming a part of the West Coast Villa family! Peace & Beauty, Kelli Johnson of Johnson’s Manor – Winter Springs, Florida
August 2007
Jang, Alberta, Canada “We don’t want to leave!”
Hi Don & Krista! Thank you very much for allowing us to stay at your lovely home! It is beautifully and tastefully furnished and really helped to make our vacation very comfortable! Who would want to stay in a hotel when one could stay in a such a lovely home like this! We enjoyed our stay in San Fran going to Chinatown, fisherman’s Wharf and the Great Mall in Milpitas. Great times in the city. We aren’t quite ready to leave this comfor, beautiful views and fresh air…but we’ll definitely remember this place and recommend it to others. Thanks a bunch for your generous hospitality!
July 2007 “Easy Access”
Sparr and Salmons
Thanks for the wonderful home! We enjoyed the beautiful rooms, comfy beds and great TV’s 🙂 The location was just right…easy access to all the places we wanted to go. Thanks so much! We are two couples from Missouri and Montanna.
July 2007
Joshis, “Cured of Hotel Stays”
Oregon
Dear Don & Krista, We are never staying in a hotel room again if we can help it. Thank you for your superb hospitality and all your great directions. The best to you and your family.
July 2007
Nair Family
Texas
We used the Villa as our home-away-from-home during my brother’s wedding. It was such a comfortable, beautiful place for our family to come together. My sister and husband, my husband and I, and my parents filled the house, along with our two toddlers. The house is filled with quality furnishings (beds, bedding, tv’s, kitchen, etc.) The kids and guys loved the dish network and flat-panel TV’s in all the rooms. We also made great use of the wireless internet access – “Mapquest” was our friend! Although it was “full”, it was never cramped. The bedrooms are set away from the livingroom and kitchen area. We each felt like we could retreat to some quiet when we needed it, and we all had separate bathroom quarters. It was a perfect location for all of the events we had planned: from a Giant’s game and ocean fishing in San Francisco to our Rehearsal Dinner in Walnut Creek and the Wedding south of Oakland. It is located close to free-way access, so it worked well for us. We went in all directions, but found it a wonderful place to return to each day! There is a nice grocery and coffee shop just a block away, which was so convenient. A stroll in the morning and a hot cup of joe was ideallic on a summer morning. We would definitely book again!
July 2007
The family reunion of the Helms, Rogstads, Frederics and Myers
From Texas, Louisiana and New York
You have a beautiful home and it was perfect for our large family vacation. We had a great time. Thanks!
June 2007
Nachtrieb Family
Texas
Thank you so much for allowing us to stay in your beautiful home. You made us feel so welcome. We have truly been blessed by all you did for us. Our trip to California was even more special by staying here!
May 2007
Cal Baptist Choir
Southern California
Thank you for blessing us by opening up your home to us. I pray that the Lord will continue to bless you and keep you…it was the best homestay I’ve ever had and your story last night was so incredibly encouraging – everything was wonderful. Your family made me feel right at home
April 2007
Earl & Betty
City Pittman North Carolina
This is the best home we’ve stayed at.
April 16, 2007
Carissa A. Blevins
Warrenton, Virginia
This was the nicest rental property that we have ever stayed at. After sleeping in the beds you have I have to admit it was hard coming back to my own. Thank you so much for all the added amenities you included and your thoughtfulness towards your guests.
Dec 2006 – Jan 2007
Hyde Family
Pennsylvania
My family and I spent our Christmas (2006) and New Years (2007) at this beautiful home, and we could not have asked for a more comfortable, well-equipped and well-located property. We were close to shopping, highways, and the train station. The owners are gracious and very helpful and helped make this one of our most memorable vacations.
Date November 2006
Name David Engle
Paris Crossing IN
If you want to be part of a home away from home this is the place. The place is beautiful; anything you need is at you fingertip. Great location to any place you want to go. The Robertsons are great Christian People. Trip was 5 Star + David Engle
Date July 26, 2006
Name The Bernhardts
Pilot Butte Saskatchewan, Canada
Your hospitality surpassed all of our expectations – thanks so much for the ride to the BART station. The house was even more impressive than your website showed. Your vacation home is exceedingly wonderful – thanks…if we’re ever back in the area, we will certainly hope to stay at Villa II again!
Date July 2006
Name Walls
Canada
This home is very attractive and we felt comfortable as soon as we arrived. The decor is fabulous and furnishings are first rate! The photos don’t really do the house justice. We had a very relaxing 4 days at Castro Valley and the owners were a wealth of information. We were so very impressed with the location. Walking distance to the market and a fantastic pizza place. It gave us a chance to experience the true way of life of citizens of the San Francisco Bay area. Trips into San Francisco were effortless and quite entertaining. The surrounding area is filled with wonderful destinations for day trips, the owners have some great information about the area included in their welcome package. We would definitely stay there again, without hestitation!
Date July 2006
Name The Story Family
State Minnesota
Thank you so much for making this such a great place to be. It was so nice to have a place large enough and so comfortable for our family to all be together here for our daughter’s wedding. If we come back to the area we will definitely check again for availability. The location so near to the freeway, yet so quiet makes it ideal. Other family members and friends who stopped by were very impressed also. Five Stars!
Date July 2006
Name The Naiks
City Ann Arbor
State Michigan
Country USA
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in your gorgeous home! Everything was absolutely perfect from the moment we arrived to our departure. You have thought of everything to make our stay comfortable. It was truly “home” away from home. Thank you so much!
Date July 26, 2006
Name Trudy Gwyn
Rockwell, TX
It was certainly our pleasure being your guests. This is definitely a 5-star in every way. It is the cleanest, best equipped, best organized and most comfortable place we’ve every stayed in. When we are back in this area, we’ll try to make our reservations early so we can stay here. We’ll also tell our friends. Thanks for all your help and directions.
Date July 26, 2006
Name The Bounds
Fayetteville, NC
Very, very comfortable home – everything you would need! We especially thank you for all of your wonderful help. It was a pleasure meeting you and your family.
Date July 20, 2006
Name The Wright’s
Norman, OK
Don & Krista, Thank you so much for the use of your home while we visited the San Francisco area. The house was beautiful and we really enjoyed our relaxing stay. The Wright’s
Date May 30, 2006
Name Alyx Lance
State California
Thank you so, so much for the use of your home. It is so comfortable, cozy and more than we expected. My family had a wonderful vacation and this house made it! We would definitely return whenever we’re visiting. Thanks again!
Date May 2006
Name Mel & Mary Norby & family
City Morro Bay
State California
This is a great location for visiting Berkeley. I-580 is a great freeway. Everything in the house seems new and fresh. It is very comfortable.
Date May 2006
Name Sandy & Jerry Peters
City Palo Alto
State California
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Your home is beautiful, your hospitality so warm and inviting. We enjoyed our visit. This was definitely 5 star! Sandy & Jerry – Palo Alto, California Martha & Don – DeQueen, Alaska Monty Jo & Vicki – Kenton, Oklahoma
Date May 2006
Name Stefan D.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Our stay was quite wonderful. Your home could not have been more comfortable or convenient.
Date May 2006
Name Mary Ann & Peter
City Santa Cruz
State California
Thank you. You have a beautiful, comfortable home. We enjoyed our stay!
Date May 2006
Name Liisa K.
City London
Country UK
A lovely ‘home’ to come back to and a very comfortable and spacious place to stay! Many thanks!
Date May 2006
Name Marc & Sophie
City London
Country UK
Thanks for your hospitality. You provide very useful local knowledge and directions.
Date March 2006
Name Wil & Ruth
Seattle, Washington
You should be charging twice as much! Fabulous, luxurious! West Coast Villa II is masterfully designed and so comfortable.
Date March 2006
Name Emily & Jim
City Orlando, Florida
Don and Krista, Many thanks for the use of your villa. We had simple goals when looking for lodging in the Bay area: clean, safe, and comfortable. Your villa exceeded our expectations. Not only was it beautiful and luxurious, but we also enjoyed the warm family atmosphere. My husband especially enjoyed chatting with Don and meeting the entire family. The best of luck in your future endeavors. We shall return in the near future to do it again.
Date February 2006
Name Michael & Donna Sprague
New Orleans, LA
Thank you for the use of your home. It is lovely and is so inviting. Your hospitality was so much appreciated.
Date January 19, 2006
Name A & J
Date of Stay Thanksgiving ’05
Vancouver, BC, Canada
We had the privilege of staying in the West Coast Villa II during the Thanksgiving week. We were very impressed with the wonderful accommodation provided and the hospitality that we received from Don and Krista. They made us feel very welcome and were readily available to help us find everything we needed in the Bay Area. The Villa is beautifully furnished with everything we needed to make us feel right at home. There is a washer, dryer, dishwasher and all the amenities that one would have at home plus the beds were so comfortable. Having three bathrooms was a bonus. We’re so thankful that the Villa was available to us upon our visit to the Bay area and we will certainly stay there again. Truly a lovely vacation home and we would highly recommend it.
…Breaking News…
Home Away From Home
Castro Valley family finds market for vacation rental homes;
people booking from far and wide.
by Jim Knowles
San Leandro Times (c) March 16, 2006
Reprinted in the Castro Valley Forum March 22, 2006
The Robertsons have some visitors coming over next week…and the week after that…and the week after that… They’ll be booked up through the summer. But the people coming to the Robertsons’ house aren’t freeloaders. They’re paying customers.
The Robertsons found that the East Bay has a shortage of vacation rentals. Since Don and Krista Robertson have a 3-bedroom guest house on their property, they’ve gone into business. People from all over the world want to visit Northern California and they need a place to stay.
“There are lots of vacation rentals in San Francisco, Tiburon, places like that,” said Don Robertson, “But there aren’t many in the East Bay, and it’s a lot less expensive here.” “The East Bay is an even better location than San Francisco for tourists”, he said.
“It’s centrally located, not far from the Napa Valley, or Great America, and all the places people want to go,” Robertson said. The Robertsons redecorated their guest house and included all the amenities: a phone and TV in every bedroom, DSL internet connections and WiFi, a complete home entertainment center, and a laundry. “Our thought was, ‘What would make it a place where we would want to go?'” Robertson said.
The living room of the guest house looks out over the Castro Valley hills, and on a clear day you can see the bay in the distance. The house is new and completely furnished.
“Half of the bookings come from local people who have families coming out here for things like weddings,” he said. “A whole family might need to book three hotel rooms, and that can get expensive.” The Robertsons know, since their own family is big. “We have a family of nine,” he said. “With three hotel rooms and eating out at restaurants, it’s enough to bankrupt you.” The Robertsons are looking forward to meeting people from all over.
“We have people coming from Washington this week,” said Krista Robertson. “We have people coming from England, Oklahoma, British Columbia and Minnesota.” The guest house sleeps six people, with room for eight with temporary beds. If the family visiting is bigger, the Robertsons will also rent out a section of their own house, adding two more bedrooms. And if the group needs more room, they can also rent the entire main five-bedroom house, with a huge living room, kitchen and entertainment room with a giant TV screen. “We’ll just go on vacation for a week or two,” Robertson said. With summer coming, the couple is looking forward to meeting their guests. “It’s great to meet people from other parts of the country, people from different backgrounds,” Robertson said. “This is bigger than we ever expected.”