After 2 months backpacking around Asia and sleeping in hostel dorm bunkbeds I was looking for somewhere in Sydney where I had my own space and could feel at home while starting my working holiday visa and registering as a nurse in Australia. Having lived in London for 9 years, I wanted to be by the beach - Bondi of course! After reading his description and reviews, I booked Ben’s flat immediately.
I landed from Bali, sleep deprived and hungry, arrived at Ben’s and couldn’t have had a warmer welcome with a cup of tea, hot cross bun and an Australian SIM card which Ben helped me set up on my phone. He even took me out for a little drive around the area to show me the shops/restaurants/bars so I could familiarise myself. Throughout my stay Ben gave me a lift into town several times to save me catching the bus. I asked Ben’s advice about getting settled into the country and within days with his help I’d organised my bank account/tax file number/medicard. As such I had several important documents coming through the post and the mail box is safe and secure.
The flat is clean, beautifully decorated throughout with Ben’s photography and artwork, plants, salt lamp and fairy lights - such a lovely relaxing atmosphere. I have been travelling light out of a backpack so I particularly enjoyed netflix and bluetooth speaker! We often had coffee, went to the beach, watched documentaries or ate dinner together. One of my first nights we had a drink with Ben’s parents which was wonderful. Ben also was kind enough to let my friend stay while she was in between hostels and farm work.
From the flat, it is a 5 minute pleasure of a walk down to the beach with everything you could want along the seafront. Ben’s is on a quieter road, I always felt safe in the neighbourhood and never worried about getting the easy access public transport by myself any time of the day. The bed is so comfortable, I always slept well and Ben was forever offering me extra blankets if needed.
Originally I intended to stay for a few days then move to a hostel but my 10 days extended into nearly a month!
I travel for work and have stayed in countless hotels/air bnbs but am certain I couldn’t have found anywhere better to stay in Sydney. From the Tim Tams to the Vegemite, Ben goes above and beyond what is expected of an air bnb host to ensure his guests feel at home. Ben was my first friend in Sydney and I will always remember staying with him. Thank you!