This hostel has so much potential, but falls short in the area of cleanliness. Operationally, the live-in staff is stretched thin. Therefore, I imagine its harder to do what is normally expected in accommodations of this size. If this hostel would hire professional outside cleaning staff and professional exterminators, it would be magnificent.

Unfortunately, my fascination and wonderment of staying in the home of an actor who was pivotal in the transformation of how African Americans were portrayed on TV, who appeared in more than 60 films and was a regular on television, was cut short by being bitten by both bed bugs and ants. To their credit, the staff moved me quickly when my bed bug bites were reported (I had more than 20 all over my body). But it was heartbreaking to be moved to a room and wake up at 3 am being bitten by ants and itching so terribly from the bed bug bites I had already sustained. I had to find a 24-hour Walgreens to get relief.

Fortunately, the host was more than willing to speak with me about it and refund the money for my stay, which is very honorable. If this place invested in outside cleaning staff and outside extermination, leaving customer service, check in, and breakfast to the staff, this hostel would be absolutely fantastic. The furniture needs a good cleaning and there are many details outside professional staff would not overlook.

Its obvious they are working to improve the area surrounding the pool and the property is beautiful. I loved the two pit bull terriers that were on property too. They were both so sweet. The international staff and guests provide a culturally rich experience as well. Although I brought my own bicycle, I was delighted to see bikes for rent for a small daily charge. There was a small weight lifting area and ping pong table as well.

A tip on booking: Be sure you know what part of the home you are booking. Not all accommodations are inside the main mansion, the exterior which is picture. I wasn't aware I had booked inside the side house, which seemed more like a servant's quarters next to the mansion. There are many more guests on that portion of the property.