Patrick and Catherine are like the sweet Aunt and Uncle who let their nieces and nephews stay at their house because the kids want freedom, but also need the wisdom and support of two wise souls. The whole front of the house is basically yours. The room is a good size with a large bookcase full of classics like Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" and French cook books. It's a classic, comfortable feel. The bed is so soft, it feels like a hammock! I slept like a rock.

Patrick and Catherine have installed a door between the front and back of the house to give guests privacy. You have your own mini-fridge that they keep stocked with water bottles. There's a coffee maker and coffee grinds, a dinner table for 4, and your own bathroom with a clean shower. If you prefer privacy, it's yours. I stayed for ~a week, so I got to know P & C a little bit. We had several nice conversations, including once sitting out on their back porch sipping wine and trading stories about world travel. (PS: I'm 33 and they are retired.) It was totally comfortable. But they'll only chat with you if you show interest (I did bc I was more living than traveling).

This is NOT a party house. If you plan to get drunk and stumble home, it'll be like doing that to your sweet Aunt and Uncle. This place is PERFECT for couples (or singles) of any age who want to explore Austin like a local. The neighborhood is super convenient with a popular coffee shop nearby (I'm here now), several cafe restaurants, a fresh market, and a couple fancy restaurants.

Location: safe, neighborly, and a 25 minute walk to downtown (5 min drive).