An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line
This is a 2 bedroom English Basement Apartment. Bedrooms are comfortable. It is private, clean, & safe place to crash for a night or two. There is a queen size bed in master bedroom and a twin size memory foam bed in the other bedroom plus a twin size sofa. The additional bed is an IKEA twin size sofa bed in the living room. If you are looking for an authentic experience, you will enjoy my home in NW neighborhood, Bloomingdale! It is so trendy these days. Come and experience it! Many new and exciting restaurants to try just meters away! Should you drive, you may use my visitor's pass, if it is available.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Hand wash your dirty dishes please. Cleaning company charges to wash your dirty dishes.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No unauthorized guests or visitors allowed. You wi
Security cameras are on the outside of the propert
Please note that there is a fee of $20 per half-hour late check-out.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 5007242201001776
Property # 1636941vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No parties or events allowed at property.
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Washington
Northwest, a neighbourhood in Washington, is home to this apartment. Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of Natural History are cultural highlights, and some of the area's notable landmarks include White House and Washington Monument. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Nationals Park or Capital One Arena.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center - 6 min drive - 2.1 km
Capital One Arena - 6 min drive - 2.1 km
Smithsonian Institution - 7 min drive - 2.4 km
Getting around
Washington Union Station - 9 min drive
Shaw Station - 14 min walk
Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) - 19 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 12 min walk
The Bistro at The Courtyard - 13 min walk
All American Bakery & Cafe - 9 min walk
Alero - 12 min walk
Gold Clover Bar - 7 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line?
As of 13 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line on 5 July 2026 start from AU$203, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is An English Gem in Bloomingdale, NW, 9 blocks from Union Station@NOMA on red line located?
Located in Northwest, this apartment building is within 2 miles (3 km) of Howard University, Smithsonian Institution and Union Station Shopping Center. Walter E. Washington Convention Center and United States Capitol are also within 3 miles (5 km). Shaw Station is 14 minutes by foot and Gallaudet U Station is 16 minutes.
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Great place and spot in town, would definitely stay here again
Xander B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Karna
26 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Clean, safe, efficient, comfortable, and private apartment! Very spacious and easy parking and communication with the owner! Will definitely stay again!
The place was perfect for a quick bday getaway. We had a great time and we had no problems. The host was very attentive, responsive, and quick to resolve any questions or concerns.. I will gladly recommend this location to others..
We loved our short stay at Dr. Koura's place. The apartment is centrally located, but still on a quiet and pretty street. It only took me steps to get a coffee in the morning and we found parking quite easy.
Apartment was clean and we had everything we need. Should stay again!
Nicholas C.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jan 2024
Hosting Nicholas and wife was rewarding and easy! It was such a pleasure to host them at my home.
It was a great place for my trip, close to a lot and the neighborhood is pretty nice! The rooms were extremely clean and the host was very great at communicating! I would definitely stay again, my only advice is it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bring another chair (there’s only one stool for the dining table) and if you are over 6ft the shower is a tight fit (no one’s fault just a heads up)
Christian O.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 June 2023
It was a pleasure to host Christian and guests. They took good care of my home! The place is just a basic set-up for sleeping. Pictures and narrative of the apartment are accurate at booking. Most of my guests do not dine-in. There’s a plethora of eateries and cafes in the neighborhood to enjoy!
The apartment was great with plenty of room for the whole family and the location is within walking distance between a coffee shop and a pub with a quick 10 minute drive to the National mall. There is no TV in the apartment so bring your laptop and the only thing that could have made it better would be a small dining table with a few chairs.
A wonderful place to stay if you are sightseeing in D.C. ! Not too far that travel is a time-suck, yet not so close to downtown that the price is (!!!) a very good 'goldilocks' location. If I make another trip to DC soon, I will definitely consider staying here again. Walk from this location to Capital One Arena is about 30 minutes. The host is very nice and responsive to messages.
Steven G.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2023
Steve thanks for staying at my humble abode. I enjoyed hosting you. Do come again! You are always welcome.
Two friends and I needed a place to stay for one night. We only needed something we could crash at so location and esthetic really was not a big need. However, we were so pleased with the location. The accommodations and cleanliness exceeded out of expectations. The street and building had so much charm. It was a treat to stay here and I would definitely come back!
Stephen S.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Nov 2022
You’re always welcome! Thanks for being excellent guests.
Everything was good. Nice location, disappointed with the pricing apr sleeps 6 but we were charged extra for a 4th person . We were told extra towels were in the closet but there were only 3 towels and 3 blankets .
No coffee or other snacks available.
It was clean and safe.
christine c.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 July 2023
This apartment does not include food of any sort, coffee, or snacks for the price paid. Christine was not charged extra for her 4th guest but charged the correct price for having four people. The price for 6 people are not the same for 4 people. It’s a basic, clean, and safe sleep in DC. The listing states to bring your own amenities above those that are offered. Christine’s claim that she had not been provided towels and blankets for 4 people is false. Sadly, she uses the review platform to further the falsehood. When Christine was informed where to look, she never confirmed receiving them. Not to mention there were 8 eyes (4 persons) inside of a two bedroom apartment that didn’t think to open closet doors, as stated in the instructions where to “find” the towels and blankets. However, they left the front door opened and the security gate wide opened when leaving out. Nor did they make any use with bathing and using the 4th towel that such a big fuss was made about. Out of the 5 available blankets they used two. It was evident that the towel set and blankets were found because pillows were used from the same place. Each guest’s arrival is planned accordingly and basic essentials are always provided.
Great place to stay for a quick one day trip to DC for a show. We arrived Saturday around 5pm and left Sunday morning. Mostly just needed a place to crash. The house is a very quick walk (5 minutes max) from a great pub that we went to before and after the show.
We did hear footsteps through a lot of the night, but that was expected as it is a basement apartment. It would be nice to have a fan available to plug into the wall in order to both drown out the noise and provide some breeze with the summer warmth.
Griffin L.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 July 2024
Griffin and his guests were great and easy to host. What a pleasure!
It a home to stay one night no more than that. It’s a home to spend a night at that’s all. We were looking forward to enjoying a breakfast hand cooked by ourselves, but no dishes or pots or pans to cook with. Half of the accessories worked. The WiFi didn’t work right, neighbors were up stumping around all night and day. Be very aware the homeless tends to roam around at night so be concerned with your safety. The metal doors can easily be gotten into. We even found a open water bottle in fridge along with a illegal substance in the kitchen drawer allow with scissors with a white substance on them not even cleaned. My family was shocked and very displeased. Won’t be staying here again!!
Zephaniah B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Zephaniah B's review is concocted with full of untruths. He and his lovers stayed 4 nights at my place without complaint. After checkout, he writes a very negative and scathing review of the property claiming that he saw "illegal substance." Interestingly enough, of the 4 characters, none could identify incense. SMH! In their worldly experience, I assume they believed the substance was something that they may have before smoked illegally. Thus, believing my natural frankincense was drugs. Sadly, this "Zephaniah" shames the true biblical character. Thinking of characters, Zephaniah and his crew showed up in full regalia as cartoon characters of some sort. Imagine, 4 grown men with childish costumes at midday in DC??? They trashed my apartment and wet the bed. The bed had to be cleaned and sterilized. They broke my plate holder. Please note that Zephaniah B is not someone to be rented to in a private home setting. He and his kind needs only to book commercially at a hotel.
Ignore his rant about homeless people and the issue of safety. Zephania is only in his feelings because he was charged for breaking my property and trashing the apartment with their merrymaking. The heartless statement about homeless people roaming around at night is also shameful. No one should be made fun of due to their economic status in society. As listed, my apartment does not come with pots and pans. So I am not sure why Zephania B would believe that magically they would appear available upon their arrival? Artesan water, Fiji brand was available for Zephania B and crew. Now he flips the narrative to state that the water was opened. Please take his review as a joke and have a hearty laugh! Ignore it and read the other very credible ones. Be far warned, Zephania came with lovers and they had an unathorized party at my home and trashed it upon departure. In the booking it stated, one child was traveling with the group. Untrue. It is all a scam to rent your home disguised as a "family," when they are not.
Please note that I pride my home for being spotless, clean, and safe. Bloomingdale is one of the most sought after neighborhoods in DC. My apartment is located in a beautiful Victorian and on a very beautiful tree-lined block. I do all I can to please very deserving and grateful guests. I also hope you do not allow this faux review to deter you from staying with me. Thanks so much for taking time to reading this response to such ridiculousness.
This property is the perfect place for a short visit to DC or if you plan on being out for most of the day. Owner is friendly, helpful and will give suggestions for your stay in the city if you ask.
Garrett C.
Stayed 1 night in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May 2022
Garrett makes hosting easy and pleasant. He was an excellent guest at my home!
Dr. Koura truly had an amazing property. It was nice, clean and comfortable and a very cool 63 degrees upon arrival which was excellent as it was in the mid 90’s when we arrived in DC. She responded quickly and the rules were clear. She had everything we needed for an excellent stay in DC. I will recommend her property to anyone! An will gladly come back again. My boyfriend did accidentally pack her door stop but we cleared up and handled the matter. If you want to relax and come home to a cozy atmosphere this your place! 5 stars!
Jade P.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2022
Ahhh…you’re the best! Jade my home is your home. Do come again!
Verified
4/10 Poor
Anna W.
25 Feb 2021
Liked: Check-in
Disliked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
No gem and unsafe
This property is no gem; not even close. Stained futon to sleep on, worn sheets, dirty sink and air vents and thermostat was locked to 67 during winter. Neighborhood is unsafe as while we were looking for hidden entry (no outside light on) to basement the car was stolen right in front of us in under 2 minutes. Police said stolen vehicles are rampant. And to add insult, owner charged group of elderly women $100 after we left for just being in DC on Jan 6; no damage and no reason. You get the idea, so if you want cheap and carry personal protection, then this is your place.
Anna W.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Feb 2021
“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.”
Sadly, from the outset of this booking, these guests were very problematic. They arrived my home seditiously to “storm the Capitol.” Looking for fault in everything, gleefully fault found them. Rest assured that my home is always cleaned immaculately. All linen are sanitized for each new guests’ arrival. Anna rating me poorly is predictable and vindictive. She communicated very poorly before, during, and after her stay and as a result poor consequences followed. Unfortunately, her car was stolen due to her negligence and not mine. Anna has found comfort in blaming me for her many DC misfortunes. Please ignore her rant and read more credible reviews.
I stayed at this property for the 4th of July with some friends. We were only sleeping here, but the stay was very comfortable. Everything was very clean. The location was nice and a very safe neighborhood. The beds were nice and comfortable as well. Communicating with the property owner was a breeze, she replied promptly and was very easy to work with. This is a great place to stay for anyone traveling on a budget and just needing a good place to sleep.
Carrie B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thanks for being excellent guests! It was a pleasure and honor to host you @my home!
What we really needed was a clean, comfy place to shower and sleep and ease of getting to public transportation. We definitely got all of those in this property. While the property is old and could use a bit of TLC, it was quaint and we felt safe there. It would have been even better had there been a little refrigerator for keeping soft drinks. The Metro bus stops only a block from this place and stops again a block from Union Station where you can find many options for fast food and can catch other buses, the subway, the free Circulator bus, or various tour bus options. The owner was really great to work with and we enjoyed our time in DC very much!
David & Carolyn S.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
David and Carolyn thanks for staying @my home. At your booking, my home was listed as not having a refrigerator. Sorry you missed the disclaimer. I’m now happy to report that a refrigerator is in the unit.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Barbara J.
15 May 2019
Charming, Quiet, Comfy, & Great Neighborhood with a Fantastic & Classy Hostess-Thank You!!
This spotless, extremely comfortable, & surprisngly spacious basement apartment was the perfect landing pad for me to rest & rejuvenate after a busy conference this past spring. Now, don't think musty, dank, or dark because this is a basement property, because this apartment is quite the opposite! This space is airy, appealing, & surprisingly bright! The neighborhood was delightful, SAFE, & quiet. I found the bed to be so comfortable, I was reluctant to leave it in the morning. The water pressure in the bathroom (and it's a great bathroom as well!) is to die for. I looked forward to my evening shower & had a mini-spa of sorts each night before bed. Linens were high quality, with clean fluffy towels & washcloths, & soft sheets & blankets. I was able to sleep with my bedroom window slightly cracked open to enjoy a little fresh air while I slept. The owner also offers free wifi, which came in extremely handy in preparing for the conference.
The only hiccups (there WERE no real problems with my stay at all!) were the temperature & trash. Being that in-between time of year temperature-wise, I did have to request that Dr. Doura turn off the heat, as we had an unexpected heat wave during my stay. The apartment tends to be pleasantly cool. NO PROBLEM! Dr. Doura solved the issue IMMEDIATELY after I messaged her. I wasn't sure where to put the trash, so I made my own bag and left it in the kitchen area in hopes this was an appropriate spot for easy removal
by my hostess. Apologies if it wasn't!
The owner of this property is extremely attentive, kind, & accomodating. I even accidentally sent several duplicate messages to her (annoyingly) because I wasn't sure they were getting through, yet my hostess remained patient with my lack of expertise. She goes the extra mile to make sure guests are comfortable & happy for the duration of their stay.
My only suggestions would be to add a mini-fridge & a small coffee maker to the property so that guests can grab a small breakfast or snacks. Maybe some small bedside reading lamps as well? Outside of that, maybe a couple of extra towels for people with longer hair would be a good idea, though I imagine Dr. Doura can accomodate any such requests! Even without these things, this English Gem was perfect for me. I'd gladly book another stay in this Bloomingdale apartment. This was a five star stay all around, & I'm absolutely delighted I chose this property. Thank you Dr. Doura!
Barbara J.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Barbara your review is all that and some...lol! Thanks for being a perfect guest at my home. You make hosting easy and pleasant. Thanks for staying!
Verified
6/10 Okay
Nash B.
31 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, location
Nash B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
About the host
Hosted by Dr. Koura Gibson
I am Dr. Koura Gibson, a linguist, a teacher of French and Spanish, and a USA Track & Field master athlete. I run hurdles and triple jump, holding more than 7 national championship titles. I am an Africanist, trained @Howard University's African Studies and Research Department. I also curate and sell African Art @galleri Sowei, my home gallery. I love traveling to far and fascinating places around the world. I am honored to host you at my home in DC. I welcome all guests of many nations and nationalities.
Why they chose this property
This is my second home. I lived in it for 4 years. It is located in Bloomingdale, NW, DC, in one of the most sought after communities in the area. The homes in this neighborhood are gorgeous and stately Victorians. I no longer live here and offer it to budget travelers visiting our Nation's Capital.
What makes this property unique
The real benefit of staying in my home is that it is safe, clean, central, and very affordable for budgeted travelers.