This listing is probably the most comfortable place I've been to especially in terms of how "free" I felt in the short time that I was there. Even the booking process was so easy and "anxiety-free." You also feel free inside the house as you have access to everything. No worries at all with parking. There's plenty of space outside as you can park anywhere you wish, even on Richard's driveway.
The views around the house are pretty. There is a farm nearby with cows and horses. And at the back of the house you can see the mountain.
The house is an experience unto itself. There is just something about it that makes you feel comfortable and also interested about the structure and the artefacts in it. It feels very homey and Richard keeps it toasty at the living room with a log fire going on.
I would also describe the house as "generous." The room I booked was big and it had a double bed. Just by the window I was able to see and hear birds sipping nectar from the flowers of the lovely tree outside. The sheets were also generous to keep you warm even though I needed only one and the room also has a small heater fan.
And of course the house is generous because Richard is very generous. It's amazing how he literally makes you feel that his house is your own home. You will not feel restricted at all and that's where the feeling of being free comes from.
Richard has a very good sense of figuring out your specific needs. In my case, he provided me with a map and marked the places I should be visiting in the short time that I spent in that area.
The breakfast is really a very special detail about this listing. I have not had this experience in any of my previous AirBnB stays. Richard accompanies you with interesting conversation and plenty of stories while you are having breakfast and he literally takes care of everything that you might need. The coffee, prepared by Richard himself, was really good. I also couldn't resist helping myself to a glass of orange juice after that.
Sweet sweet Bella is truly a wonderful bonus. Even she is generous with her attention.
All these for a rock bottom price!
I plan to do the Tongariro Crossing some day, and when I do, I will definitely be booking Richard's place again.