In town with my mom for the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, I booked Megan and Jasper's listing. We stayed for 8 days and, by the 2nd day, both my mom and I began wishing we could live here for the rest of our lives. From the moment we stepped foot into this oasis-like compound*, we knew we were in for a treat. Because of the room's breezy feel and the sounds made by the birds and geckos, we felt like we had booked a luxury room deep in the jungle. That may come off as an exaggeration but we thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. The outdoor, Bali-style shower is to die-for and an absolute luxury. (Read: I would book this listing again and again just for this shower.) The room itself is large, spacious, bright, and airy, has a VERY comfortable bed, plush linens, large closet, has a well-stocked kitchenette, and is beautifully decorated in a minimalistic manner. This apartment - and the rest of the compound - was designed and is maintained with a lot of love. The level of attention and thought given to almost every detail are apparent and it's difficult not to feel at home here. I highly recommend this listing to anyone in search for a place in Hilo; and if you're reading this, just book this place - you won't regret it.

But, in case you do need further convincing, Megan and Jasper are great hosts. They're super friendly, accommodating, easy to chat with, and at least one of them is always on the property. Logistics-wise, the apartment is - literally - a stone's throw away from the famous Hilo Farmer's Market, a supermarket, and great restaurants, has ample street parking options, and is accessible to all roads. Also, unlike other lodging options (including those on airbnb), this listing's rate does NOT increase during the busy Merrie Monarch season - a fact that I greatly appreciated and respected. By the way, if you're sensitive to light when you sleep/like to sleep in, make sure to bring an eye-mask. The apartment can get pretty bright early in the day as well as during part of the night.

* Megan and Jasper manage separate rental units that are all housed on the same large property.