Vacation Rentals by Owner

Our Sydney Oasis

Guest: rjtkm (Rainier, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 04/13/12 Review Submitted: 05/19/12

Our cousin recommended that we look for accommodations on VRBO, and we hit the jackpot when we found this tree house in Normanhurst. The apartment is fabulous. New, modern, immaculate, an equipped kitchen, and such a nice place to be, that some days we chose to stay home. The neighborhood was quiet and peaceful. We were close to Macquarie University where our daughter is studying abroad, and it was an easy train ride from MU to the apartment. We were a short walk to the train station to go into the city, which we did many times. We did not need to rent a car, because of the excellent transit system in the Sydney area. There was a shopping center 4 minutes away by train, where we could buy groceries, as needed. We were entertained by the lorikeets that came to the apartment deck, the kookaburras, the king parrot, that made an appearance on our last day, and the possums that made a nightly appearance for bananas or grapes. But, best of all, was meeting Ron and Jan, who made our stay even more special by showing us the Hawkesbury River area and their own oasis on the river. We saw places that most tourists do not visit. Ron and Jan were very knowledgable about activities and attractions in the Sydney area. It was an amazing trip, and we will always have fond memories of our time in Sydney.

Owner response:Thank you Jan & Ron. We are really pleased that what we offer met your expectations. We do try to offer guests a insight into the real Sydney

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

The Best of both Worlds

Guest: linda and Roy (Wilberforce, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/08/12 Review Submitted: 04/22/12

My husband and I stayed at this lovely apt. for 6 weeks-the last 3 weeks of Feb. and the first 3 of March 2012. The apt. is attractive, comfortable and immaculately kept. Ron and Jan, our hosts, have thought of every possible thing you could need, including high quality linens, comfortable furniture and big windows on all four sides. The bird life was hugely entertaining and feeding "our" lorikeets was a high point of each day. Jan and Ron are very helpful with suggestions on sightseeing both in Sydney centre and the outlying areas, which we urge you to see if you have time.They were helpful with "how-to's" with the public transit system and a weekly pass made it all so easy. Thanks to Ron and Jan's knowledge and encouragement, we learned a lot about the natural world, flora and fauna in the area and a deep respect for and interest in the history of Australia. We found Sydney a friendly, safe city to visit with something for everyone.We had a WONDERFUL time!

Owner response:Thank you Linda and Roy. I still remember one of your comments to us "We have been here almost 6 weeks and only visited the one location twice". Sydney is truly a wonderful location to explore.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Our stay could not have been more perfect--a truly wonderful experience in every way!

Guest: David (Barcelona )
Date of Stay: 12/05/11 Review Submitted: 02/15/12

Let me try to prequalify my comments by saying that I own and operate a luxury boutique hotel in France and Spain. I have been in the small luxury hotel business for decades in the USA and in eight countries in Europe. I have always believed that a small luxury hotel must provide more than a place to sleep and eat. It needed to provide a memorable lifestyle experience for its guests. When I made my reservation to stay at Ron and Jan's "Tree House" they advised me to lower any expectations that I might have harbored about their bushland pied-à-terre as a luxury accommodation. That combined with my trepidation about booking online based upon a website, made me nervous, but, in reality their elegant, unique Australian retreat was beautiful, functional and very, very comfortable. It also was peaceful, which in today’s world is very much a luxury. However, more importantly, it really did provide a memorable experience. Years from now, I will likely forget the 5 star hotels where we stayed during our Australian holiday. Each hotel was wonderful, but very much the same as dozens of other experiences around the globe, but I know that we will never forget the wonderful experience that we had at the Tree House. The only thing that will be even more memorable than Ron and Jan's home was Ron and Jan! They combine all the great qualities of Ausies-- good cheer and hospitable without ever being intrusive. Altogether, our tree house stay would have been an unbeatable value even at double or triple the price! As far as the location, when I booked, I was a bit concerned that maybe it was too far from Sydney or maybe it was not private enough, but really any concerns that I may have had, disappeared immediately upon our arrival. I also decided in advance to take advantage of Ron's pick up service and Sydney tour on our first day and also reserved a day on the river with skipper Ron at the helm of his and Jan’s boat. I can recommend that you take advantage of both of these offers if fits your schedule. Also, the possums and the parrots were a kick! You won't get tired of seeing or feeding them. We also had some wild turkeys welcome us home one afternoon. All in all, it is amazing, fun, warm and wonderful. If you are considering a stay at the Tree House—go for it. I am certain that you will enjoy the experience

Owner response:Thank you David.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Our Best Housing Experience in Australia

Guest: George Y. (Pearland, Texas)
Date of Stay: 10/14/11 Review Submitted: 12/14/11

The property was as described but you don't comprehend how nice the total environment is until your experience it. The house was very clean and everything was in working order. The owners were the best. They became friends and we spent a good bit of time together. They added an intangible value to the experience that cannot be quantified in money. We have met fine hosts in the past, but Ron and Jan win the prize as the best. We used the outdoor cooking facilities to host a group of our Australian Rotarian friends. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed eating by the pool in the lush foliage around the house. Ron and Jan pitched in and helped us prepare, serve, entertain, and clean up. We enjoyed our walkabout in the nature reserve area behind the house. This is a dream location for living in a city suburb. It is quiet, clean, the air smells fresh, and the grounds are beautiful. We were visited by the Lorikeets every morning and other birds throughout the day. Even turkeys visited us. It is only a 10 minute walk to the train. With the train, our activity choices were unlimited. We went shopping in Hornsby and to the Sydney CBD many times. The train is the way to travel. The neighborhood is quiet so expect nothing more than peace and quiet. It is safe and we could leave home and not worry if we forgot to lock the doors. In the evenings, we sat on the porch, with a glass of wine and enjoyed the sun setting to the music of the dusk as provided by birds, insects and animals. We spent 3 months on this vacation to Australia. This was the best place we stayed and the best value for our money. We enjoyed the house, Ron & Jan, and the surroundings so much that we even stayed home three days rather than go somewhere. Living here is more than just a place to spend the night. We highly recommend this experience to our friends and family.

Owner response:Thank you George (Pearlville Texas). It really is important for us that our guests have a great vacation. We do try to offer a complete opposite alternative to hotel style accommodation.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

A great Sydney suburb hideaway

Guest: Helen (USA)
Date of Stay: 04/10/11 Review Submitted: 07/18/11

Great location, easy walk to public transport. Super hosts. You won't go wrong on this one.

Owner response:Thank you Helen & Jim! We try to offer guests an alternative to hotels and the like. Its a real opportunity to see what Sydney is really like.

Recommended for:Age 55+

IN THE BUSH EXPERIANCE

Guest: JEYCEE (france)
Date of Stay: 01/05/11 Review Submitted: 01/21/11

My husband and i have just returned from our holidays and we were very lucky to have stayed at this 'Tree House',if you decide to choose this home then you will be very pleased as it has everything that you would need and also close to all, just a train journey away or hire a car from Avis in the local village to travel further afield to Blue Mountains etc.The owners are very pleasent and make you feel relaxed and at home.The wild life around you is just picture post card really and adds to the holiday experiance.Everything that you needis catered for even down to changing of linen every 3 days was something special really.We will certainly be telling our family and friends about this place and you never know maybe oneday we will re-visit.Thank you Ron & Jan

Owner response:Sally! Thank you for your coments. Sydney is a wonderful location to visit and its important to us for our guests to enjoy our unique location.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Jenny & Stuart - UK

Guest: Jen (UK)
Date of Stay: 11/21/10 Review Submitted: 12/15/10

Wow what a fantastic location - Thank you for being such lovely people and providing us with a super tree house that felt like 'Home from Home' we even had the rain! Great place to stay - Great host - Many thanks.

Owner response:Thank you to you both and pleased that you enjoyed your stay.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

You won't ever forget this!

Guest: Judi B. (USA/Mexico/Canada)
Date of Stay: 10/30/10 Review Submitted: 11/04/10

After arriving from a 16 hour flight we were met by the perfect hostess and host. Not just our hosts but instant friends. They couldn't do enough for us (and for all that we have read about.) It is worth having the airport pickup and tour as you will have a complete overview of what you will want to do and see the following days. Being escorted to the grocery, wine store, etc is very special also so you know what you might need and what to buy special. I can't tell you how wonderful this "tree house" is and how special Ron and Jan are. It is great to go into town via train, explore the rivers and downtown areas but more than great to go to sleep and wake up in paradise! If you are a bird lover and animal lover you won't believe the experience here. Every detail has been afforded in the immaculate separate house. From the perfect furnishings to internet access, adapter plugs, gorgeous deck with electric bar b que, bird feed supplied for the many species and on and on! Really one of the best VRBO's we have experienced. You won't be disappointed! Thank you Ron and Jan! Come see us.....

Owner response:Thanks Judi and Willard for your kind review. Its important for our guests to feel at home and as we have said before experience Sydney as few do.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

WOW! What an incredible and healing place

Guest: Les (Palm Springs, California. USA)
Date of Stay: 09/01/10 Review Submitted: 10/13/10

A lovely escape, beautiful flowers, birds, possums and a private house in the trees. We were made to feel like family from the moment we stepped inside the owners are such wonderful fuides and hosts. They are extraordinary folks and we are better off for having stayed there. What a great 5 weeks

Owner response:Michael! Thank you for your nice comments. Les the possum is doing fine.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Home Away From Home

Guest: Ron and Jill (Punta Gorda, Florida, USA)
Date of Stay: 02/27/10 Review Submitted: 03/31/10

If you're looking for a "home away from home" to explore greater Sydney, look no further than Jan and Ron Roberts' Normanhurst guest house. Just a short walk to train station enables quick transport to Sydney and the ferry/bus systems for city and inner suburb attractions, and the nearby motorways provide a headstart for the longer jaunts to the northern Hunter Valley wine area, the Blue Mountains and the southern highlands. The guest house itself is impeccable and a wonderfully tranquil place to relax after a busy day. Whether providing local knowledge for our exploring or offering customized tours, Jan and Ron made us feel like old friends, and each day was quite special. Instead of merely being a place to stay each evening, Jan and Ron and their guest house became some of our Sydney vacation's fondest memories.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: nancybell (Madison Heights, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 01/13/10 Review Submitted: 01/12/10

Wow what a location:- We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Australia -- we did a 35-night circumnavigation cruise plus 5 nights at this apartment in Sydney. It is exactly as pictured, and the owners are extremely helpful and hospitable, complete with the birds during breakfast and the possum at night. All the furnishings are of high quality and are either new and modern or restored antiques. I especially enjoyed having a washer in the apartment, as I cannot tolerate dirty laundry. The owners have pretty much thought of everything and all you will need is food. Ron even took us to the grocery store and waited for us to shop. I think they do tours of Sydney, including boat tours, but we did our own thing by taking the train in each day to the city for sightseeing as we were only there for the 5 days. The station is an easy walk from the apartment in Normanhurst an upper-class suburb of Sydney with lots of vegetation and flowers and the ride into the city was a little over 30minutes. You arrive at one of the Central stations with connections everywhere. We bought tickets ($17 AUD) p/day for unlimited use of the trains, ferries and buses. We rode buses all over town, incl Bondi Beach. Then we took the ferries to Manly Beach and Darling Harbour. We visited a number of large shopping complexes, the Maritime Museum, Sydney Fish Market and of course Circular Quay and the Opera House. You can also go just 1 stop in the other direction from the apartment to Hornsby. This is a nice little town with a large shopping center with lots of stores and restaurants. All in all, our stay in the apartmnet was one of the high points of our trip, as we were able to meet real Australians and actually live in the real Australia. You will have absolutely no problems there. As far as money is concerned, we paid a deposit by credit card and the remainder, also by credit card, when we left the apartment

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Guest: Eric & Therese Krainz (Colorado Springs, 80907)
Date of Stay: 12/08/09 Review Submitted: 12/08/09

These comments don`t begin to express our feelings of enjoyment about our stay. We had an incredibly wonderful trip to Sydney. Thanks to Jan & Ron for being such a huge part of a successful start to our vacation. The apartment was PERFECT and the location stunning! We will miss the sounds and sights of "our jungle"-the birds, possums, flowers etc. Thanks so much for being such incredible hosts.

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Guest: linda w. (Sacramento. CA)
Date of Stay: 11/24/09 Review Submitted: 11/24/09

This was a very special place indeed! Everything about the apartment is so perfect! Not to mention our hosts Ron and Jan and their incredible hospitality & helpfulness. Thanks so much

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Wow what a location

Guest: nancybell (Madison Heights, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 11/21/09 Review Submitted: 01/08/10

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Australia. After our cruise we stayed 5 nights in this apartment in Sydney. It is exactly as pictured and the owners are extremely helpful and hospitable. Its as pictured, complete with the birds at breakfast and the possum at night. All furnishings are of high quality and are either new or refurbished antiques.. I especially enjoyed having a washer in the apartment, as I cannot tolerate dirty laundry. The owners have pretty much thought of everything and all you will need is food. The owners do tours of Sydney and even have a boat, however because of the short stay we did our own thing by taking the train each day into the city which is an easy walk from the apartment.. The apartment is in Normanhurst an upper-class suburb in Sydneys north with lots of vegation and flowers and the ride into the city is a little over 30min. You arrive at one othe Central stations with connections everywhere. We bought tickets for unlimited use of the trains, ferries and buses which were very reasinable. All in all, our stay in the apartment was one of the high points of our trip, as we were able to meet real Australians and actually live in the real Australia. As far as money is concerned, we paid a deposit by credit card and the remainder, also by credit card when we left the apartment.

Owner response:As owners, it is of paramount importance for us to present the property to the highest degree of comfort and cleanliness, ensuring our guests enjoy their stay. It would appear that the majority of our past guests have enjoyed being able to blend into the the Australian way of life, to mix with locals, make friends with the native animals and birds and to understand and explore the real Sydney.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Guest: Elaine Noonan (Air Ronge,Saskatchewan, Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/15/09 Review Submitted: 11/14/09

One foot in the city and 1 foot in the country. This was like an oasis in the desert. Top notch and very well done. Thanks heaps mates

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Guest: Michele MacLeay (Calgary, Canada. T2A 3KZ)
Date of Stay: 06/24/09 Review Submitted: 06/24/09

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay! Ron and Jan are the ultimate hosts! We feel we know more about Sydney than a lot of Australians now! We had a fabulous time and know that anybodys else who stays will be equally impressed as we were.

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Guest: Indi Young
Date of Stay: 04/26/09 Review Submitted: 04/25/09

Thank you for putting together such a clean, delightful, well decorated place to call home. The possoms were wonderful, like big thoughtful cats. Nicknamed the female Miss H as she is so hungry for bananas. She will guide your hand toward her mouth. Also the green blue and orange Lorikeets are a delight! on my shoulder and arms waiting for their turn at the food bowl. Wow what a location!

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Guest: Susan C. (Bullard, Texas)
Date of Stay: 03/12/09 Review Submitted: 03/11/09

Have finally made it back to Texas after a memorable trip around the Pacific. One of our most memorable stays was at your beautiifully designed guest house. Not only was the home cozy...it had all the conveniences of our own home. The furnishings were loverly. We adored the daily lorikeet visits and feeding the cute little possumn right at our door. Navigating Sydney was a breeze with the trains, buses and ferries... so unique and enjoyable. Above all, your personal attention to anything we needed was really what made our visit over the top. THANK YOU! Feel free to use our comments. I mean every word. Thank you so much

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Guest: Lyndon & Julia Rhodes
Date of Stay: 02/23/09 Review Submitted: 02/22/09

You know you`ve had a good holiday when your sad to leave - and we are!.. A "top spot" handy for everything. Confortable, clean and relaxing with everything you could possibly need. Next guests -- PLEASE feed the possum-- he`s very gentle. Ron and Jan thank you so much we`ll certainly come again!!

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Guest: Joan & Bill Curtis
Date of Stay: 01/21/09 Review Submitted: 01/20/09

You live in paradise! We`ve enjoyed staying here very much. Everything is fresh, clean and peaceful. The wildlife was wonderful. Our river day experience was also wonderful. You are gracious and caring hosts. Thank you for a great stay

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Guest: Don & Kerrill Kephart
Date of Stay: 11/23/08 Review Submitted: 11/22/08

This was our first visit to Sydney and we didn`t really know what to expect. I have to say that we were completely delighted with Ron and Jan`s place. For starters, it backs up to a forest reserve and we had rainbow lorikeets, sulfer-crested cockatoos, king parrots, brush tailed possums and water dragons in daily attendance. Next. The unit itself was immaculate. It looked as if no guests had ever stayed there before. Finally, Ron and Jan went way above and beyond the call of duty in making our stay a positive experience. Bringing us back from the airport our first view of Sydney Harbour was of the Opera House and Bridge from the Botanic Gardens, all lit up and reflecting in the harbour. They also took us up to the Hawkesbury River in their boat, which was a wonderful day. We manage a vacation rental of our own in Hawaii through VRBO and we were humbled by the effort that Ron and Jan put forth for their guests.

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Guest: Dean & Mary Cropper
Date of Stay: 11/16/08 Review Submitted: 11/15/08

Everything exceeded our expectations and even our hopes. You are so well suited to this.. Attention to detail,amazingly obliging,accommodating and hospitable. You thought of everything before we even knew to ask. The perfect beginning and ending of a delightful trip.

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Guest: Mike & Susan Morgan
Date of Stay: 09/09/08 Review Submitted: 09/08/08

Jan and Ron, its all been said before and its all true. Your place is wonderful and all the little details are "FIVE STAR". Thank you so much for everything

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Guest: Phailin Ashford
Date of Stay: 08/28/08 Review Submitted: 08/27/08

Thank you so much for making our stay absolutely fantastic! Your apartment is stunning, the location is wonderful and the surroundings are just beautiful. I`m going to miss waking to see the beautiful coloured parrots and other wildlife. We must come again and stay longer in your awesome country, its top of the list on my next world trip.

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Guest: Iain Rosekilly
Date of Stay: 06/30/08 Review Submitted: 06/29/08

What a location to spend almost 3 months, My companies choice was a tranquil and relaxing way to settle into my new job and way of life in OZ. My family loved being there. The birds, trees and peace are enchanting. I will certainly miss being there

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Guest: Neil & Kathryn Russell
Date of Stay: 05/19/08 Review Submitted: 05/18/08

Peace we sought, peace we found. Trees, birds, possums here abound - tucked away we enjoyed our stay.

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Guest: Bernard & Michelle Ford
Date of Stay: 04/07/08 Review Submitted: 04/06/08

Told you we`d be back. Thanks for the warm hospitality

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Guest: Cyndy & Don Perkins
Date of Stay: 04/04/08 Review Submitted: 04/03/08

Having read everyones previous comments, I can only say "DITTO". We have had such fun in this very beautiful place with wonderful hosts, spectacular scenery, outstanding river tour with that pristine beach. What a way to wrap up our trip to celebrate our 38 years.

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Guest: Jody & Steve Bauer
Date of Stay: 03/14/08 Review Submitted: 03/13/08

Your apartment is the best. We enjoyed our stay very much. Unfortunately we have to leave and head home to our snow covered yard. We will miss the birds and possums.

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Guest: Mike Regan & Donna Faith
Date of Stay: 03/06/08 Review Submitted: 03/05/08

Beautiful apartment and wonderful setting. Jan and Ron you are super hosts, so helpful and considerate. This made our last destination very special and we left with the feeling for the "real Australia". We do hope to return and see more.

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Guest: Taylor & Gustavo Gallardo
Date of Stay: 02/24/08 Review Submitted: 02/23/08

Wow -- What an experience! Going to miss my feathered friends. Thank you Jan and Ron for the beautiful memories -- we hope to return one day to see the friends we made. Please come to Hawaii and stay with us. Kisses mates

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Guest: Bonnie Brown
Date of Stay: 01/24/08 Review Submitted: 01/23/08

Over the top! The very best of showing us everything in such a short time.. The sounds of your beautiful wild birds will be missed.. The river trip in the boat was a real adventure. Thanks for being such fabulous hosts. Hope we can come back. We will send our friends for sure.

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Guest: Dr. Clayton Smith
Date of Stay: 01/19/08 Review Submitted: 01/18/08

Fabulous! Thank you so much for your hospitality and for showing your passion of this beautiful island with us

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Guest: Nigel & Lyn Riley
Date of Stay: 01/03/08 Review Submitted: 01/02/08

An excellent apartment in a quiet relaxing setting. We very much enjoyed our stay here.

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Guest: Susan & Tony Fishwick
Date of Stay: 11/15/07 Review Submitted: 11/14/07

Ron and Jans website indicates clearly the standard of accommodation but what it cannot express is the 1. Amazing location 2. Jan & Rons lovely personalities and top class hospitality 3. That their organised trips can make dreams come true. The Boat trip is a must. Our visit here has been the real highlight of our tour of Australia

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