Bryan's home was absolutely lovely. It was pristine and so much roomier than I could judge from the photos. It was beautifully decorated, simple and sophisticated. Understanding that most people who come into Austin will want to stay closer to downtown, I'd like to give you my reasons for picking Bryan's place: I was arriving late on a weekday, and I knew I'd have no interest in hitting the bars or staying out late. Instead, I wanted a place convenient to the airport (20 minute cab ride) and near to a gorgeous park I wanted to check out the next morning. Unfortunately, it rained like crazy in the early morning, so instead, I took Bryan up on a late checkout to meet up with a friend, and we headed to downtown Austin.
Like the best hosts, he was communicative with me, answering all my questions and going so far beyond the standard in trying to accommodate me. And he left me a lovely bottle of red wine which was a welcome surprise after a long, tiring flight and prepared me to sack out, comatose, into the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in.
If you're determined to stay downtown and pay the downtown prices, then Bryan's place isn't for you. But if you want an immaculate home to rest in with quiet neighbors and only a 20ish minute ride to downtown, then you may want to give this place a chance. As far as the host goes, you couldn't do better. And I promise the bed in the master bedroom is absolutely worth the extra drive time.