​Casey & Kevin – Detroit, MI USA 

November 4, 2024 (Consummating our marriage). 

Ali picked us up from the airport and was so kind. He let us stop at the store to grab snacks and drinks. 

He showed us around the town before dropping us off at the villa. We walked to seashells for dinner – 8/10, cheap and fairly good. Walk wasn’t too bad either. We then went to Felicity Rooftop -10/10, for drinks and dessert. 

November 5, 2024 

We walked down to Alor for coffee and breakfast. The coffee was really good and the sweetness bake was also yummy 10/10. We asked Ali to setup a water taxi to take us to sugar beach fort the day – USD$60 round trip for 2 people. Taxi was fun and woud recommend this over driving. Chairs on the beach were 100 per person (or chair). Drinks and food were pricey on sugar beach but it was a lot of fun. Before we left for sugar beach we had a few drinks at the island chef – super laid back and cooks all his meals fresh so we can plan to go back Thursday. 

Chef Ramsy cooked dinner at the villa for us – we had the mahi mahi 10/10


Nov 6 2024

We made coffee at the villa  - if you enjoy coffee in the morning be sure to by some at the store – it’s hard to find in town. We hiked Gros Piton. It was a hard hike but worth it. We got a beer and an ice cream at the end. We went to fedos for lunch – it was yummy local food 7/10. 

We hung out at the villa then went to dinner at TreeTops – USD$70 per person amazing Indian food. Menu is set but so good and make a reservation. One of the coolest restaurants I’ve been too. 


Nov 7, 2024 

We got breakfast with Ali at Mango tree – yummy and amazing views. 9/10. We set up a private sailboat ride with Zach and Jay from Mystic Man earlier in the week. We went in person to book it and got the price down – so go in to see it. They will give you a better deal. Having the boat to ourselves was so cool 10/10. 

We got lunch at the island chef – no menu you just say if you would like vegan or fish 10/10. We went to felicity again for desserts and drinks. Got Pizza from Pounty’s Pizza very good 10?10. 

November 8, 2024


We are staying at Sandals for the next 4 nights, had Ali set up a water taxi to take us. Planning to go to the Friday night cookout and street party! XOXO. 

Saint Lucia is a year-round tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and iconic Piton Mountains. However, to make the most of your trip, it’s important to consider the island’s weather patterns, peak tourism seasons, and special events. Understanding when to visit Saint Lucia can help you plan a trip that aligns with your interests, budget, and preferred climate.

The Dry Season: December to April

The best time to visit Saint Lucia is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period is characterized by warm, sunny days and low humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and beach lounging. Daytime temperatures average between 79°F and 86°F (26°C to 30°C), with cooler evenings in the mid-70s.

The dry season is also Saint Lucia’s peak tourism period, as many travelers from North America and Europe escape the colder months for the island’s warm climate. This is the ideal time for those looking for pristine weather, but it’s important to note that accommodation prices are higher, and popular attractions may be busier. If you prefer a more vibrant atmosphere, this is when you’ll find the island’s top events, such as the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival in May, which extends slightly beyond the dry season.

The Shoulder Seasons: May and November

The shoulder seasons, particularly May and November, offer a balance between pleasant weather and fewer crowds. While the island experiences more rainfall during these months, the showers are often brief and followed by sunshine. Average temperatures remain comfortably warm, ranging from 79°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C).


Visiting during these periods allows you to take advantage of lower accommodation prices, as many resorts and hotels offer discounts in the lead-up to and just after the peak season. Additionally, the lush landscape is especially vibrant after the light rain, creating a beautiful backdrop for hiking, exploring botanical gardens, and enjoying waterfalls.

The Rainy Season: June to November

Saint Lucia’s rainy season runs from June to November, coinciding with the Atlantic hurricane season. During this time, the island experiences higher humidity and more frequent rain showers, though it’s important to note that the rain typically falls in short bursts rather than long, continuous downpours. Daytime temperatures range from 80°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C), and while hurricanes are a possibility, they are relatively rare.

If you don’t mind occasional rain, the rainy season offers a quieter, more budget-friendly travel experience. Accommodation prices are lower, and the island is less crowded, allowing you to explore popular sites like the Pitons and Sulphur Springs without the usual tourist traffic. However, it’s wise to keep an eye on weather forecasts and invest in travel insurance during this period to protect against potential storms.

Special Events and Festivals​

Saint Lucia’s calendar is filled with vibrant festivals and cultural events that can enhance your visit, regardless of the time of year. The island’s biggest event, the Saint Lucia Carnival, takes place in July, featuring colorful parades, soca music, and street parties that celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage. For foodies, the Anse La Raye Fish Fry happens every Friday, offering freshly grilled seafood and live music.

In May, the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival attracts music lovers from around the world with performances by international artists, while in December, the island celebrates Christmas in the Caribbean, featuring unique traditions like parades and seasonal festivals. If you’re interested in these events, consider timing your visit to coincide with them, but keep in mind that the island may be busier during festival seasons.
Conclusion: When to Visit Saint Lucia

The best time to visit Saint Lucia largely depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. For perfect weather and a lively atmosphere, the dry season from December to April is ideal, though it comes with higher prices and larger crowds. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind brief showers, the shoulder seasons in May and November offer a great balance of good weather and lower costs. For travelers seeking a quieter experience, the rainy season provides solitude and lush landscapes, though it’s important to prepare for potential weather disruptions.


No matter when you visit, Saint Lucia promises stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

​We chose the island of St. Lucia to celebrate our honeymoon. From the moment we saw the property on Airbnb, we knew we were in for a great stay, but nothing beats the in-person view! 
 
We have experienced such calm and peace. The view alone makes you want to stay in and soak it all up! We chose to split our trip: half inside and half excursions and culture. 
 
On our way up to the villa we took photos at the viewpoint and our driver Ali gave us local history as we drove. We stopped by Massy more time than we knew lol 😊 and planned meals to prepare each day. 
 
Our excursions consisted of a rum and chocolate tour, botanical gardens, volcano tour and mud bath, and waterfall tour. Seeing the beautify of St. Lucia has been amazing. This was the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of our marriage. 
 
Highly recommend Janus and his staff. We will be back.“ – Dupree 

​St. Lucia is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, known for its stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and warm hospitality. For those planning a trip to St. Lucia, booking an Airbnb can be a great option. Here are the top 10 reasons to book a St. Lucia Airbnb.

More Affordable Than Traditional Accommodations
St. Lucia is a popular tourist destination, and as such, accommodations can be quite pricey. However, booking an Airbnb can be more affordable than a traditional hotel or resort, allowing you to save money on your vacation.

Unique and Authentic Experiences
St. Lucia has a rich and diverse culture, and staying in an Airbnb can offer a more authentic experience of the island's way of life. You can choose to stay in a local neighborhood, meet locals, and immerse yourself in the island's culture.

A Wide Range of Properties to Choose From
Airbnb has a wide range of properties to choose from, including apartments, villas, cottages, and even treehouses. Whether you are traveling solo, with a partner, or a group, there is an Airbnb property to suit your needs.

Stunning Views
Many St. Lucia Airbnb properties offer stunning views of the island's natural landscapes, including the Caribbean Sea, Pitons, and rainforests. Waking up to a breathtaking view is sure to make your vacation all the more memorable.

Local Tips and Recommendations
St. Lucia Airbnb hosts can offer local tips and recommendations on where to go, what to see, and where to eat. This can be invaluable information for making the most of your vacation and experiencing the island like a local.

Home Away From Home
Booking an Airbnb in St. Lucia can feel like a home away from home. You can cook your own meals, do your laundry, and enjoy the comfort of a private space.

Flexible Check-in and Check-out
Unlike traditional accommodations, many St. Lucia Airbnb properties offer flexible check-in and check-out times. This can be a great convenience, especially if you have an early or late flight.

Personalized Attention and Service
St. Lucia Airbnb hosts are often very responsive and attentive to their guests' needs. They can provide personalized attention and service, making your vacation all the more enjoyable.

Safety and Security
St. Lucia Airbnb properties are often located in safe and secure neighborhoods. Additionally, hosts are required to meet certain safety and security standards, giving you peace of mind during your stay.

Contributing to the Local Economy
By booking a St. Lucia Airbnb, you are contributing to the local economy and supporting local businesses. This can have a positive impact on the island's tourism industry and the livelihoods of St. Lucians.

In conclusion, booking a St. Lucia Airbnb can be an excellent way to enjoy your vacation while also experiencing the island's unique culture and hospitality. From affordability to stunning views, there are many reasons to consider an Airbnb for your St. Lucia trip.

​St. Lucia is a small Caribbean island located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It is known for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and colorful culture. If you are planning a vacation to St. Lucia, Airbnb is a great option for accommodation. There are many Airbnb rentals available on the island, ranging from small apartments to large villas.

One of the benefits of staying in an Airbnb rental is the ability to experience St. Lucia like a local. Many Airbnb rentals are owned by locals, who can provide you with insider tips on the best places to visit and things to do. This can be especially valuable if you want to avoid the more touristy areas and get a true sense of what life is like on the island.

Another benefit of staying in an Airbnb rental is the flexibility it provides. Many rentals offer a fully equipped kitchen, allowing you to cook your own meals and save money on dining out. This can be especially useful if you are traveling with a large group or have specific dietary needs.

There are many different types of Airbnb rentals available in St. Lucia, so you are sure to find something that meets your needs and budget. Here are a few options to consider:

Beachfront villa: If you are looking for a luxury vacation, consider renting a beachfront villa. These rentals offer breathtaking views of the ocean and easy access to the beach. Many also have private pools, hot tubs, and outdoor living spaces, making them perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

Jungle retreat: If you are an adventure seeker, consider renting a jungle retreat. These rentals are often located in the interior of the island, surrounded by lush rainforests and mountains. They offer a secluded and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Apartment in a gated community: For a more urban experience, consider renting an apartment in a gated community. These rentals are often located in the larger towns and cities on the island and offer access to amenities such as pools, gyms, and tennis courts.

Once you have decided on your rental, it is time to start planning your vacation activities. St. Lucia is home to many beautiful beaches, making it a great destination for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing. The island is also home to several nature reserves, including the Diamond Falls Mineral Baths and the Tet Paul Nature Trail, which offer hiking and birdwatching opportunities.

If you are interested in culture, St. Lucia is a great place to visit. The island is home to many cultural events and festivals, including the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival and the Saint Lucia Carnival. These events showcase the island's vibrant culture and provide a great opportunity to interact with locals.

No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, St. Lucia has something to offer. With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and rich culture, it is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. And with so many Airbnb rentals available, it is easy to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs and budget.

John & Catie 

We started the year out right at this Dreamy Villa. We can’t express our Gratitude Enough. 


We decided to rank each activity for some quick advice. 5 STARS POSSIBLE. 


Gros Piton Hike – ($50.00 Per person) *** -  Fun to say we did it, challenging, rewarding, hot if you start late, good view @ top. 


Soufriere Tour – (US$65.00 per person) ***** -  Tet Paul Hike, LOVED. Amazing views and not nearly as hard as Gros Piton. Volcano, cool, Sulphur Smell, informative. Mud bath  - Must Do!! Memorable treat. Waterfall, power shower, worth the stop. A picture worthy day; our favorite overeall. 


ATV TOUR ( $40.00 PER PERSON)  - **** Patient guide, group tour, worth the $. Go on black sand beaches, through water and quickly back on roads. Get your own atv – don’t share! 


Beach Day ($15.00 per person)  - **** Can spend a lot or little time, nice drinks to buy with water sports available. Right under petit piton. 


Scuba Diving ($100.00 Per person) so fun! Our favorite – a whole new world. We wish we didn’t wait until the end so we could of gone twice! Saw fish, coral, turtles & crabs!! 


THANK YOU!! JANUS, SHANEBOY & LIAM! 
WE HAD THE BEST WEEK!! 

P.S CHEF RAMSEY IS AS GOOD AS EVERYONE SAYS….


#sargasvilla #stluciaairbnb #airbnb #stluciavillarentals #caribbean 

​Brian + Rachel 

Had an awesome time at sapphire 4. 

First night drove up from the airport + checked in. super easy. A/C was on very nice! 

Ate dinner and had drinks @ Hummingbird on the Beach. Decent Food. The Bar next to The Hummingbird made really good drinks. Don’t know the name of the place. But it was a round the hut on the north side of the beach. 

Day 2: Walked down to the track and stadium to run and watch the local kids play soccer fun! 

Drove to Zaka’s after reading reviews. Zaka’s is now closed, nor not servicing coffe or food. So we flexed and went to Mango Tree! Great views + amazing Brekkie! Highly recommend. 

After brunch we went to Sugar Beach. One of the coolest beaches we’ve been too!! 

Also check out Botanical Gardens + Diamond waterfall. 

Dinner was snaks here/ spent all day @ sugar beach. 

Day 3: 

Gros Piton Hike  - Gnarly hike…took just under 3hrs total, awesome view but diifutult for fure. 

Got back, showered + napped until donner. 

Dinner @ chocolat Resort…Great view + great eats….DO IT!!! 

DAY 4 

Hit the track again to stretch out + run. 

Made breakfast here. 

Drove to sugar beach again to lounge. 

But all the chairs were reserved for guests…BUMMER

We are off to Marigot Bay for the rest of the trip. Never Met Janus but enjoyed our Stay!! 

“Your Villa was gorgeous and we fell in love with your team! Your father is a an AMAZING chef and Jermal spoiled us with his friendship and always provided us with anything and everything. Introducing me to Denise, was the best thing that ever happened to me, lol. One of the many things she did for us, was arrange poolside massages for us with Mercher, where we didn’t even have to leave the Villa.

​It was truly the whole package, beautiful Villa, private driver, private tour, private chef and private massages. We can’t thank you enough for your hospitality (quickest replies I’ve ever had to any questions or assistance needed with Airbnb) recommendations, accommodating us with the apartment due to our late departure and making our entire experience memorable.

I plan on coming back with friends once COVID is over to rent out all of your villas, hopefully get lucky enough to have your dad cook every night, and stealing Jermal’s time for our entire stay. Appreciate you and THANK YOU 😊.”

​St. Lucia All-Inclusive Resorts vs Luxury Airbnb- Which Is Right for Your Getaway?

St. Lucia, a beautiful island located in the Caribbean, is a magnificent place for a tropical getaway.  Beautiful, packed with activities, and offering ample opportunities for privacy and adventure alike, St. Lucia is a gem that is perfect for everything from weddings and romance to business travel and more. 

​But where should you stay while visiting this tropical paradise?  Should you book a stay at an all-inclusive resort like Anse Chastanet or a luxury Airbnb like Enclaves or Saba villa or Sapphire Apartments?  The aim of this article is to help you determine which St. Lucia accommodation is best for your vacation.

Identify Your St. Lucia Travel Goals Before You Book

The accommodation you choose can play a huge role in your satisfaction with your trip.  This means that it can pay off big time to sit down and think about the amenities and qualities that are most important and that will lead to you getting the most enjoyment out of your vacation. 

For example, if you are looking to avoid all cooking without having to go to restaurants for every meal, an all-inclusive resort is definitely appealing, but if you just want a private chef to prepare dinner and to be able to make something small or dine out for breakfast and lunch, a luxury Airbnb like Serrana that includes the option for a private chef can be a perfect compromise.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing travel accommodations is your desire for privacy.  While St. Lucia resorts such as Ladera and Sandals offer ample privacy within guest rooms and suites, the communal nature of resorts means that restaurants, pools, and other areas are likely to have crowds. 

One of the good things about a Soufriere Airbnb is that many include private pools, outdoor seating, parking and more that are only available to you and your guests.

Space is another big factor for many travelers.  While a guestroom is great for travelers who don’t plan to spend much time indoors, vacationers looking to relax and enjoy sanctity and solitude in a Caribbean setting may find themselves more content in a nice Airbnb. 

While most resort guestrooms are fairly small and cookie-cutter, a luxury Airbnb offers an entire home or apartment including multiple bedrooms, a large kitchen, computer and laundry facilities and more.

While many people associate Airbnbs with being much more costly than an all-inclusive resort, the truth is that the Airbnb you choose and your overall travel plans will determine which is more cost effective.  For example, Airbnbs by St. Lucia Superhost Janus include 24/7 concierge service, airport transfers, and even an on-call private chef as well as discounts on everything from tours to taxis and rental cars. 

For travelers planning to get out and explore the island, a luxury Airbnb that is already priced comparably to a hotel is definitely the long-term money saver, while travelers who just want to hang out at the beach and enjoy onsite amenities will likely fare better at an all-inclusive St. Lucia resort like Sandals Grande.

Last but not least, travelers should consider their safety when travelling in the era of COVID.  There is no doubt that everyone in the travel industry is doing all that they can to mitigate risk to guests while ensuring that they are still able to have an enjoyable stay in paradise. 

​All-inclusive resorts like Ladera work hard to enforce social distancing and cleaning protocols where possible, but the simple fact is that in this category, Airbnb is the clear winner.  When you are the only guests on the property and when you have access to private tours of everything from The Pitons to the Sulphur Springs drive-in volcano, your chances of catching even a cold drop to near zero.

The Choice Is Yours, and St. Lucia Welcomes You No Matter What You Decide

At the end of the day, where you choose to spend your time in St. Lucia and the Caribbean is up to you.  While resorts have long been the default option for travelers, the expansion of Airbnb and the desire of Superhosts to provide amenities that compete with even all-inclusive resorts has certainly created a sense of competition that benefits travelers.  St. Lucia can’t wait to welcome you, and no matter where you choose to stay, we know you’re going to love it here.

​Thank you so much for your hospitality and opening up your beautiful property to us. We loved staying there and hope to come back. – Christina 

Janus, thank you so much for all you did during our stay at Serrana Villa! You made our honeymoon comfortable, enjoyable, and relaxed! – Ryan 

Amazing time! Can't wait to come back soon. Thanks for making our honeymoon absolutely perfect. – Colby 

Thank you for having everything available to us with such ease and for always being available for anything we needed. – Phyllis 

We had a blast at your villa and it was great to meet you personally. Next time I’m in st. Lucia, I’ll definitely want to stay at one of your villas (May be your new one). Missing st. Lucia already. Wish you all the best, happiness and success. Cheers! – Nishant 

Jermal was incredible and I have been recommending your villas to everyone who asks about my trip. The stay was perfect, every experience was completely memorable. – Anjavi 

Thank you so much for the hospitality while in Saint Lucia. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! – Steadman

You and your team are incredible. Thank you so much for your hospitality! We will definitely be back. Never good bye but see you later 👋🏻 – Carter 

You were nothing short of AMAZING!!! So sorry I didn’t have time to write anything in your book because I was rushing out but if you’d like to write on my behalf I can definitely send you what I’d like to say! I enjoyed your place so much, it felt like paradise! I cannot wait to return! And this time I will not be arriving alone lol. Thank you so much for your hospitality and I hope your units continue to flourish! – Casey 

Thank you Janus for everything..! From the apartment, the service, the energy, you team..!! This holiday would not have been as amazing without you and your team..!! This will definitely not be the last time you see me in St Lucia again..!!😃 – Tchien
​
Good communication from Janus and his team. Beautiful villa Amazingggg views overlooking Soufriere, the ocean, & the pitons. Watching the sunset by the pool was beautiful. The morning sounds make you feel like you’re surrounded by nature (which you are.) All televisions had many options to watch like Netflix, cable, etc – Floating paradise 

Thanks for the nice stay, and very appreciative of the help we received from, I believe her name is Sofia, when we were departing. – Donald 

Thank you so much, my man! This was our first family vacation and you made it a special one. From one man to another, thank you : - John 

Thank you for EVERYTHING!!! You and your staff made this experience such a pleasure. – Abeo 

Thanks so much for everything! Made our honeymoon an amazing experience – Michael 

I wish I could give 10 stars. Nothing to complain about. Service and add-ons are incredible – M

We were accommodated in every way. Janus went above and beyond for us. Every driver, the chef, and Janus were great. I couldn’t have made this trip anymore special without that team. I appreciate you all and I will be returning and will be recommending to others. – Ameerah 

Thank you for being an amazing host. The team was incredible and truly a great mini-vacation. Looks like we may be back next summer for a full month and will certainly look to this home or another one you have given the excellent service. – John 

Thanks for everything Janus. We had a great time and really enjoyed the villa and the excursions. Also give our thanks to Jermal, Shane boy, Jermel, Kim, and the rest of the team. They were fantastic and were always responsive. – Jake 

Hi Janus, Thank you, again, for allowing us to enjoy SABA and the wonderful services that came with it....especially our great friend, Jermal. The value he adds to your business is beyond measure. On another personal note... Mark and I parted ways after our trip to St. Lucia. We remain friends and will always remember our wonderful stay in St. Lucia. – Tammy 

Janus and team, Thank you so much for a wonderful St Lucia experience! Will def recommend your spaces to anyone I know planning a trip there! – Tammy 

The Airbnb was exactly as advertised and the experience was amazing, the island was beautiful and so was the view. – Evernesse 

Thank you for the accommodation. I am fully satisfied with everything as I have evaluated. Especially the view from the balcony was very nice. – Hiroaki 

Thank you so much for an amazing stay! Words cannot describe how much we loved St Lucia. Also you have an amazing staff and we appreciate how helpful you’ve all been! Just thank you thank you thank you! – Adina 

All we can say is 'Thank you'! Our stay was amazing and the place is gorgeous and the views are breathtaking. We appreciated it more and more every day, didn't want to leave and already miss it. Thank you for being so welcoming and sharing your place with us! We will be back and advertise it to all our friends. – Ruta 

Thank you for providing a great stay. Couldn’t get enough of the view of the Pitons. Really close to everything and you’re easy to get a hold of. 10/10. – Nelson 

Thank you to Janus and your team for an amazing week at Serrana. We loved every minute of it. – Sam 

Janus, thank you so much for everything. You made the trip 1000x better! Hands down best trip I’ve ever been on and it’s because your team made everything so easy. Also, really appreciate you allowing us to stay at your villa! Amazing property to say the least! Till next time my friend - Matthew


Hey Janus, Thanks for having us, your place was beautiful and we really enjoyed ourselves. We plan on coming back for our 1st anniversary and will probably stay in one of your other villas as well. Thanks again – Marion

Seriously the vacation of our dreams - THANK YOU for everything!!! – Melanie 
We cannot thank you enough for welcoming us to your home with open arms and allowing us to explore the beautiful island of Saint Lucia! Serrana Villa was spectacular, the drivers were so courteous and helpful and your hospitality was unmatched. We miss it already. Thank you! We will be back! – Shauna 

Janus i loved your property, it was beautiful. You were so helpful— arranging the covid testing, tours and literally everything we needed. Janus made it easy to navigate everything. Until next time – Amy 

we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the Saba Villa. Major props to you, Jermal, Shane Boy and your whole team. The experience was flawless and we hope to come back again! – Nakia 

Thanks you for an AMAZING stay! We absolutely loved the apartments and your hospitality was top notch. Chef Ramsay cooked us the most delicious meal and your drivers Shane and Jamal were wonderful. We had such a great time visiting Soufriere and hope to stay at one of your beautiful villas next time we visit. Thanks so much!

Janus, I want to thank you so much for the accommodations at your villa. It was truly an incredible experience we will never forget! We hope to return again and will do our best to spread the word about the awesome properties you're developing. We wish you nothing but continued success in all your future endeavors! Cheers, Hans & Elisa Schleimer

thank you for a great stay! We had a blast and will have memories to cherish forever.Remember you’ll always have friends in Texas! – Heather 

Thank you so much for your hospitality. Honestly you made us feel so comfortable and like we belong. We have zero complaints, you nailed it and have it all figured out. Our only recommendation is below. Hair dryer Wash Cloths (we didn't find any) – Trisha 

Thanks Janus - it was a pleasure staying at your place, I appreciate your thoughtfulness and communication throughout the process. 5 stars treatment all around – Tarek 

​“Thank You so very much for welcoming us to Saint Lucia and your beautiful property. Your team is amazing and it really felt like we are home away from home .” - Amanda