When An Airbnb Review Is More Than Just Words
The New York Warehouse Loft where one guest’s kindness left a lasting impression on us
When I first met Le Viet, I saw a young Asian man with his mum. But then I noticed how humble he was and how respectful he was towards his Mum. I couldnt help myself, just had to comment on his manners….. “Bet you learnt those manners from your Mum?” I splurted.
And quick as a flash he shot back “Nah, learnt them from watching Netflix” [hahaha]
Le Viet and his beautiful mother spent only three nights with us, but the kindness, humility and gratitude he showed during that short stay left a profound and lasting impression on us. Blessing and I hope to carry that same kindness into the lives of others. We hope to pay it forward to every guest who stays with us, just as Le Viet shared it with us. We hope to leave this world in a better place than how we found it.
A few days after checking out, Le Viet left us the following Airbnb review. It reminded us why genuine hospitality is about so much more than providing a place to stay.
Le Viet’s Review: Booked for the loft, got an amazing host on top. The moment I checked in, Gary helped with our luggage which he didn’t have to. I was with my mom, who doesn’t speak English. Gary noticed the cold, turned the heater on immediately, and made sure she was included in every instruction so she never felt left out. Super responsive, even checked in on us during the stay. The place? Ouff, Chef’s kiss. Blessings knows ball: thick warm blanket, good rug, colour theory, all kitchen utensil I’d need, even a bathroom heater. Triple-ply toilet roll, fresh fruit, brand new milk, extra blanket in the closet, ironing board, a folder for how everything works, local guide, coffee machine I didn’t even use but i like the option. Extra is the game. Both of us slept like babies despite the freezing Melbourne weather.
But it’s not just the place, it’s the host. Gary and Blessing made us feel like home, lowkey roasting me for still living like a college student. Definitely back, super host for a reason
Our Response: Every now and again, we get to meet people who inspire us. Having both of you stay with us was one of those encounters.
Life is so precious and meeting people who live with the gratitude and kindness that you do, is for us like receiving a beautiful gift. Your kindness will live in our hearts for a long time.
Please come back whenever you can. We miss you already
Gary & Blessing
Thank you Le Viet for reminding us that hospitality isn’t just about providing a place to stay. It’s also about creating genuine human connections.
Gary and Blessing, the team behind South Yarra Stays, believe every guest deserves to feel at home.
