If you are traveling to Edinburgh and looking for a local, culturally immersive experience, this is the place!! While Karen and her husband are Ireland natives, they have been in Scotland for over 10 years raising their children and have so much knowledge to share! My experience staying here was the sole reason that this trip to Edinburgh was one of the best trips I've ever taken! We arrived early on a Friday morning and checked in immediately upon our arrival. We were welcomed with tea and an extensive amount of kindness. Each morning the kitchen was set with breakfast (tea, fruits, cakes, cereals, etc.) and Karen and her husband would often sit with us to talk for hours. I stayed here with two friends (20-21 years old) and we felt like we were right back at home with our own families. The children were also so sweet and we were able to bond while playing the piano, listening to the daughters "musical performance", and even baking apple pie together! I would definitely recommend Karen's home to anyone who is looking to meet new people and immerse themselves into other cultures/lifestyles. We would come back here in a heartbeat!