I never met the host David. But the check in was pretty easy. The cottage was exactly as it looks online. I read that it was a little gypsy-like neighborhood and that was a pretty good description. The drive up the dirt road was a bit bumpy. Wouldn't want to do it in the rain. The only thing I would have expected would have been some minimal toiletries & maybe some bottled water. If you're used to fancy, this is not your place. It was fine for one night, but I don't think I would stay much longer. It was very clean.