Elena shared her culinary tips (and gifts!), her family and her connections with a local olive oil maker and a friend with a cherry tree grove with us on our trip. She made sure to provide us with the ingredients for a simple Puglia dinner including some wine for the evening when we arrived- and the house was thoughtfully prepared with everything we needed.
There isn't enough room to describe how wonderful and thoughtful these experiences and the planning that Elena puts into them are worth. We can see that this is exactly what a Super Host is and should be. Elena is passionate about making the home special and prepared for you and specific to the region and culture.
A big above and beyond gift (of many that she gave us) was that I found a small sick kitten and her family spent an evening assisting me in saving him and treating him medically and putting together a bed & milk for him. The next day I went and collected a travel carrier and food and Elena and her mom stayed in touch to help make sure we found an adoptive home. Elena even transported the little guy to the adoptive home I found after we left, which I'm sure was more than she bargained for with any AirBnB guest. I appreciate personally being taken care of and having the gifts of the community and culture- but it takes a special person to help with warmth when you want to keep a sick animal on the terrace for a few days! I nursed the little kitten back to health and if it wasn't for Elena my heart would be broken.
We were warned by other reviews of traveling internationally to be aware the internet is not the same, but Elena responded immediately to our concerns and adjusted made sure everything was perfect. We also read from other reviewers that the apartment was directly above a bar and to be honest the nightlife mentioned was indeed lively, including the fact that small children are awake and involved until early hours of the morning. We prepared and brought ear plugs and with the AC on this was completely fine. If you want this view and this experience with such a warm and welcoming host- then you also accept the culture and the community that stays up late celebrating life and enjoying the sea that is right next to the apartment.
Tips: watch the sun rise from the top terrace, buy your vegetables daily from the different markets- they are very inexpensive and delicious. Also- don't forget about the Pausa- and remember to collect groceries and things before 1pm or between 5:30 & 8pm.
Thank you, Elena! we love you and we'll be back to visit!!