A fantastic experience for my first time renting via Home Away. I did a lot of research to find what turned out to be the perfect house for a big family gathering over the Christmas holiday. My wife and I, plus our two daughters were meeting her immediate family that had arrived from the UK, we needed a big house. We were a party of ten (six-adults, four children – one 11, two 8, and one 4 year old). Booking the house over two weekends was no problem, (we arrived on Saturday, Dec. 19 and left on Tuesday, Dec. 29), and Debra was very flexible with our booking; and she was also very helpful, all my questions were answered quickly and completely prior to reserving the property and the entire process was very smooth.
It’s a beautiful big house and strategically located: Close to the beach, shops, and restaurants, with easy access to the main road. The house had more than enough room for us all. Especially nice was the kid’s room which can accommodate four, and the Master Suite. We gave my wife’s parents (both in their late 80’s) the Master Suite on the third floor. My in-laws thoroughly enjoyed the privacy of the Master Suite and the small sun deck adjacent to the bedroom, and they loved the elevator which was used every day. The elevator worked out great for them and it ensured that they could easily move between floors.
Many of the local restaurants and shops are within walking distance or just a short ride away. We ate at Lobstas, the Sandbar, and I especially enjoyed Skinny’s for great burgers. We ate in most of the time and found the kitchen to be well equipped to accommodate our cooking needs. The extra refrigerator in the garage was also much appreciated for storing cold drinks, extra food, etc. We also cooked on the grill a few times which created a variety of food/dining experiences for us.
The cart that was provided made getting gear to the beach very easy! The cart allowed us to easily transport (umbrellas, towels, coolers, floating toys, etc.) and the kayak. We used the kayak a few times and had great fun. We also made use of the bikes – riding the island and cruising the coast road.
Our entire party loved the place and we all were sad to leave.
Thank you Debra for allowing us to experience Anna Maria Island in your lovely home, we all had a wonderful time.