The Ra’anana apartment is in a perfect location. It close to the “Savil Ra’anana” (the Ra’anana Trail) a beautiful greenway that winds its way through much of the interior of the city and to the best pedestrian park in Israel, the major intersections of Ahuza and Yerushaliam roads, the Ra’anana West train station, and the 531 Highway. Accordingly, it is close to shopping, dining, recreation, two synagogues, and the highways, buses and trains that are linked to the remainder of Israel. Also, your host, Joel — as many reviews point out — is among the kindest and most generous people you will meet in your entire life. He is a remarkable person.

I feel sheepish about relating any criticism, because the spot is so wonderful, but renters should pay closer attention to the list of amenities than I did before renting. The apartment does not have a dishwasher, freezer, washing machine or dryer. This was not tragic (and entirely my fault for not noticing), but made a stay of more than a few days a little more challenging, and required a few creative changes in our plans. Thus, renters have apartment-like square footage and furnishings, but features that more resemble a hotel room than a home.