Arrive outside Kristen's towering timber home, you know almost immediately you've made the right choice. Walk down the side entrance, past fronds and greenery, you find yourself in a quiet garden hideaway, secreted from the rest of world. In the still quiet you hear the sound of trickling water from somewhere unseen, the little mottled cat that lives under the house watching you warily from beneath one of the palms.

Instant peace.

Then, the cottage: classic New Orleans French colonial draped in overgrowth, timber frames and glass panels inlaid in two french doors that open into a perfectly appointed, intimate little bedroom studio, tastefully decked out in pastels, a queen size bed adorned with a small truckload of cushions ready and waiting.

All you need is there: kitchenette (generously stocked with a welcome hamper and drinks in the fridge), a perfectly clean bathroom (shower & toilet), ample wardrobe space — even a turntable and set of records. It is clear Kristen has made a monumental effort in making guests feel welcome and it absolutely pays off. This is exactly how you would do it.

Add to that the location (The Garden District, verdant, ramshackle, ancient and safe, minutes bike ride from Magazine St, the artful, quieter side of NOLA), the cost of the space and the endlessly generous host Kristen (ex interior designer — you'll see her influence as soon as you step inside), and you genuinely can't go wrong with this booking.

The queen sized bed might be a little bit under ideal for the dilettantes (it's a bit firm when you first drop onto it, does tend to tip over when two people sit on one edge. I'm a picky sleeper, however in the end sleeping in this quiet room was effortless), but this is a BEYOND minor quibble. You will fall in love with the space and Kristen, like you will the city (if you haven't already), and — like the best kinda love — embrace the little flaws amid the gentle beauty as proof of character.

I was Kristen's first Airbnb guest and she was my best host and space — by far. Photos don't do it justice. Can't recommend this gorgeous little cottage enough.