The studio is large, comfortable and super clean. It is under the main house. It is located a stones’ throw from the beach and river. Lots of birds, sunset over the river; lovely to listen to the silence in the absence of a TV.
Downside is there were no contributions like tea, coffee, condiments or milk (as in other AIrbnb’s). Only one mug. When I asked Vivi brought a few tea bags.
The area is beautiful and peaceful and the beach fabulous. Loved kayaking at Brunswick Heads. Loved the Optus walk.
Unfortunately Vivi seemed to develop resentment against me. From the outset my experience with Vivi was dreadful and got worse. It started with Check In. Vivi had sent a text message the morning of Check In saying “If for any reason I am not at home the key will be in the door.” I arrived about 50 minutes early and called out but no one answered. I parked in the driveway and called out again. The house seemed quiet so I assumed Vivi was out. I let myself into the studio, put some things in the fridge, brought my bag in and went to get a coffee. Shortly after I received an angry call asking why did I let myself in? I explained, apologized for any miscommunication and returned. Vivi berated me and then told me to go away for another 40 minutes until she was ready to do Check in. I asked if I could check in then since I’d come back from my coffee but she said she wasn’t ready and there were things she needed to show me as part of Check In. It had to be at exactly 12.30. I sat out the front in my car for 40 minutes until I was allowed to Check in. Check in meant showing me the utilities – Here’s the fridge, Here’s the light switches etc. So I found that experience petty and controlling.
Some other weird things happened. She had several containers of frozen soup in my fridge so would come into the kitchen when I was there to get them. She also borrowed a bowl. Then returned it. So that part of the studio did not feel private.
She asked me if I would take her dog for a walk and I said I might do that. I didn’t make any promises as I was staying to connect with friends in the area, do day hikes and kayaking. However it seemed to become an issue when I didn't do that. When I arrived back after a day out she would mutter loudly to her dog “People keep promising you walks and they don't stick to their promises.”
I am sure Vivi’s review of me will be negative too! But please look back at other reviews I have had. I do try to be respectful and considerate. Unfortunately this one genuine mistake had negative repercussions for my whole stay.