We loved staying at Mary Beth’s place. It is large, and has several common spaces, so multiple people can enjoy privacy or quiet times. The area is beautiful. We were able to enjoy nice walks and hikes right out the front door. We also enjoyed Lake Garfield (Except for some loud motorboats on occasion.) Getting to the lake requires some downhill hiking (and uphill return). It is a little bit strenuous. The boats are right at the dock, which makes using them easy.
The kitchen is well stocked, and large, making meal prep easy. The décor is attractive. And the sofas are cozy. The beds are very comfortable.
There are 2 bathrooms, on the first floor. Since there is only one bedroom on the first floor, most guests will have to come downstairs to use it.
Things that weren’t accurate in the listing:
When looking for a place to stay, we rejected all listings that did not supply sheets and towels (as we anticipated a tight squeeze in our small car.) So we were upset when we heard at the last minute, only after we had paid in full, that we had to bring our own. Mary Beth said that this is COVID-related, but to the best of my knowledge, there is no science suggesting using freshly washed sheet (or washing guests’ sheets) endangers anyone.
Likewise, we did not hear until a few days before our stay that “We will have limited supplies of toilet paper available for your use … Please buy ‘septic safe’ toilet paper.”
It is difficult for us to understand why there would not be adequate TP for our use. We had to make a special trip to the store (at this time of COVID) to get a specific brand.
And finally, we were asked at the last minute to either bring our trash to a Transfer Station (which was not open on the day we left) or to take it with us (impossible of our small car). We left it behind, but informed Mary Beth of that fact so someone could remove it.
Since the fee included a cleaning fee, we were unhappy to have had these things outsourced to us.
And from now on, before we make our final reservation with VRBO, we will ask, “Will there be anything required of us that you have not stated here, but that you will tell us right before we arrive?” And I would like to suggest that Mary Beth include these requirements in her listing, so that future potential guests can make an informed decision.
That said, we are happy we stayed in this lovely house and area. And we appreciate all the nice touches.