The welcome at Lotus House (Irene's studio apartment) was like meeting old friends. Megan and Jasper made me feel so welcome as soon as i arrived. We sat outside in the evenings for a drink and they shared lots of advice for the area. Hilo is a great spot for getting to Volcano Park and Mauna Kea. The apartment itself is cute and cosy, as is the Sugar Shack (also run by M&J). Perfectly located right in the centre of town for restaurants and bars, check the Kava bar down the road (jaspers favourite). I will definitely stay here again (the whole time) if i get the chance to come back to Big Island.