Where to begin to describe such a great and wonderful experience.
First, the location - you have everything next to you, great cafes and restaurants, public transport and a short walk to the city - and you are surrounded by chirping birds and buzzing bees.
The house is a hidden jewel, covered by a lovely cherry tree (you should catch it when it's blooming) and beautiful big petaled flowers. We were greeted inside by Donna to a well decorated, cosy and welcoming home - Mary Monica. She showed us around and made us feel at home from our first step. Our room was well prepared and we felt like in a Disney movie - well decorated, large bed, cosy pillows, and soft towels. We then had a cup of tea in the kitchen which has big windows that provide a view to the stunning blossoming garden (you would never guess there is a garden like that in the city - another hidden jewel) accompanied by some delicious homemade chocolate cake and a lovely chat with Donna about the history of the house and the garden itself (birds, bees, butterflies, colourful flowers - you name it, it's there), the antiques and basically everything from knitting socks to greedy possums. The rest of the night was great, we took a shower in the sparkling clean bathroom, and it was inevitable not to sink into the bed into a deep sleep covered with fluffy blankets and soft pillows.
In the morning we had a lovely breakfast all made by Donna (when do you have the time to cook all that?) and since we are vegetarians she even prepared something for us ahead. After the breakfast and some more chatting and laughs, Donna offered to take us to the city so we can make it in time to the Mount Wellington bus - this is just one of her great qualities of being a super host (and a caring soul). When we got back we quickly packed everything just so we could have another cup of tea with Donna before we leave to the airport (which we booked a ride with her). The ride was convenient, quick and full of great stories shared by us and Donna. When we left we felt a bit sad, as the experience was great and so was the kindness, welcoming, caring, loving person that is behind all of this - Donna. We simply can't put it in words, it was just outstanding. She provided us with above and beyond (and you know what? She does the same for all her guests. Can you imagine that?).
To sum it up, we can't wait to visit Tasmania again, and booking more nights in the lovely and charming Mary Monica with the best hostess there is.