We didn't actually meet Gary due to our busy sightseeing schedule but we communicated with him by email during our stay. Gary's place is great in terms of the amenities it offers, affordability, and the close proximity to public transport.
Gary's place has a bus stop right outside for the number 197 bus which takes you to/from East Croydon train station (a 5 minute bus ride). We mainly walked from East Croydon train station to Gary's place (it takes aboiut 20 minutes). East Croydon train station is amazing in terms of how quickly you get into the heart of London like Victoria train station. There are frequent trains and it took us about 20 minutes with trains only stopping at 1 or 2 stations between East Croydon and the Central London stations.
This was a great place, and it felt safe at anytime to walk around. One night we came back home at 2330 Hrs after a night at the theatre and there were still plenty of people about on the trains and streets.
I loved the amazing Christmas tree just inside the front door too Gary.
Thank you
Sven