My wife and I and our two (married) best friends were planning a get away and wanted to go some place none of us had ever been or knew much about. We heard a lot about Santa Barbara and thought it would be perfect for our trip! There were so many great listings it was hard for either couple to choose their favorite. When my wife and I felt like we were ready to book we were caught off guard by a guest who snatched the place right before we could.

Bummed out we continued looking. Down the list and out of our selected SB location on the map we stumbled upon the Topanga/Malibu Canyon Cottage. It had so much charm and character. The dates we wanted were available, the price was hard to beat, and there was even another unit on the property that we thought would be perfect for our friends, so we booked!

The whole booking process was made enjoyable and easy by the host, Sylvia. I don't know if I have ever met a more helpful person. She was understanding and knowledgable and we felt like we knew her before we even shook her hand.

Upon arrival we were blown away. The property has a way about it. Almost like it has been waiting for you to show up and enjoy what it has to offer. Sylvia and her dog, Pablo greeted us at the door and we shared good conversation as she showed us around. The place is worlds better in person.

We felt at home all week. We ate plums from the garden, soaked in the hot tub at night, laid in the yard on a blanket, and looked forward to seeing Sylvia and Pablo when they stopped by for a hello. I think we would all say we could have stayed there the rest of our lives… or at least for a while :)

Thank you, Sylvia for allowing us to feel like we owned the place, for answering all of our questions, and for making our first airbnb experience feel like our hundredth.

We cannot wait to come back!