This was a great experience, it defies description. I believe a number of the neighbors were original homeowners in this neighborhood when the lava flowed over their property nearly 30 years ago. The area has the feel of modern day homesteading in inhospitable terrain. We enjoyed the stay at the house and tried to be sensitive to the residents who still live in the area, some of whom are able to profit a bit from the lava tourism. (Our shuttle driver had grown up in the area and had plenty to say about it.) I'm sure visitors are both a blessing and a curse to the original residents of Kalapana. The house itself is adequate and clean. There was plenty of hot water, basically outfitted kitchen, comfortable enough bed, a place to charge our phones. No need for frills out on the lava. We loved the outdoor bathroom, there is a sliding door for privacy, but there is something kind of fun about looking at the landscape while showering. At night storms blew through and cleared just as quickly. The rain pounded and wind shook the structure wildly but never for very long. The location is perfect to access the flowing lava. We parked at the shuttle pick up. It took us to the second gate, cutting off about 4 miles round trip (still a 4 mile hike part way on the road, but mostly on the lava.) We were out after dark, but with headlamps and back up flashlights we were able to navigate our way back to the road and shuttle. If you want to see flowing, oozing lava, as long as Pele cooperates, this is a very convenient place to stay.