The Phoenix House is so unique and full of character! We enjoyed the novelty of staying on a lava flow. The views were incredible! Unfortunately it was too cloudy to stargaze but I can imagine this location is ideal for it.
In terms of the house itself, it is equipped 99% with anything you'll need. It is surprisingly spacious and comfortable. The kitchen and bathroom are well equipped. And it is not so "off the grid" since it's even connected to wifi! We loved the decor and how everything was arranged to practically work together.
The only issues for me were temperature and safety.
It was very hot when we visited. I had asked Jade before if it's going to be ok without aircon and she reassured me it would. I guess everyone's tolerance is different but I live in the tropics myself and still found it uncomfortable at night. If you could keep the windows open it would be pleasantly cool and breezy but that wasn't an option as the cat would come in every time we opened a window or door and also blister beetles would swarm the place. So we had to rely on the two fans which were loud and not so cooling. We tried leaving the bedroom windows open at night but that would only work with the curtains open and that meant waking up at sunrise. We could put up with it for 2 nights but I wouldn't have been able to stay longer. An aircon is necessary for a good night's rest although I'm not sure whether the batteries of which the house runs at night could support that.
With regards to safety, it was a bit odd that the house is not locked. According to the house guide the house remains unlocked and any valuables can be stored in the hosts' house. According to the housekeeper though, the hosts' house also remains unlocked and there are contractors going in and out. She assured us it's safe but we felt uncomfortable. Eventually we found a key to our house and locked it for our peace of mind but not sure how much of a difference makes in a house that's got floor to ceiling windows. A safe for valuables such as passport and jewellery would be a great improvement.
All in all, we enjoyed the novelty of the experience and are glad we chose stay in Phoenix House.