I have stayed in Airbnb's all over the world - in Italy, France, Thailand, Malaysia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Croatia, Lake Tahoe, Colorado, Canada, Hawaii, Los Angeles, New York, Morocco, you name it - and I am typically disappointed in the Airbnb's I stay in based on the information and pictures I see beforehand. This place was the opposite; it far exceeded my expectations!
First of all, the location is excellent. Everything in the Airbnb was very thoughtful and it has everything an individual or a couple might need to comfortably enjoy their stay in Hilo. But what was truly exceptional about the Airbnb was the care that the family who owns it puts in to making sure their guests are comfortable and enjoy their stay. They would put out fresh fruit from their garden for me in the morning (papaya, guava, pineapple!); they gave me recommendations; they were super responsive to text message requests, like supplies needed; they even gave me some home-made chocolate-covered strawberries as I was staying there on Valentine's Day. Ultimately what I loved the most about my stay was the beautiful, inviting, comforting, loving energy that they have cultivated on their property. It was very much palpable and it was a wonderful presence to be around. And the icing on the cake was they have their own little yoga studio on their property that they opened up to me daily.
I could not recommend this place enough.
Shannon & family, I will remember your home and your beautiful welcoming energy for years to come . Thank you for everything.