This is what airbnbs are supposed to be. I can't praise this stay enough. I literally don't know where to start. Nicky was always easy to reach and quick to assist me via messaging even before I booked our stay. She was WILDLY accommodating- she gave us permission to pitch a tent in her back yard for my nephew, was flexible when I realized I needed to add people to our stay, was exceedingly gracious in allowing us to bring an emotional therapy dog after a sudden death in our family... I mean I threw A LOT at her and she was never anything less than supportive and helpful.
Then the stay itself: perfect. We were greeted by a friendly chalkboard that said Welcome Kate before we opened the door, then a bottle of wine with a thank you card sitting on the table as soon as we walked in, and chocolates on our pillows!! The apartment itself is BEAUTIFULLY decorated. I felt at home immediately. But the two bedroom flat was only half the place, because the main event really is the backyard. It's like an enormous zen garden of happiness. There are two fire pits, a tent that houses a long, solid wooden table for eating, board games, and chats, a literal secret garden style grape vine growing nook, chickens- where you can take eggs in the morning, goats- who you can feed any time of the day, and the occasional dog or two, always happy to see you. Nicky and her neighbor, Amanda, shared the yard and their pets with us while also respecting our family time and privacy. I loved this place and the people so much. So so much.
My family and I came for a weekend that we anticipated would be filled with grief, tension and hopefully a little distraction. What we got was a space to relax, heal and feel a sense of community.
I owe Nicky more than my thanks for this magical space she's provided in this beautiful city. But I'm afraid it's all I have.
Thanks!