MEET THE HOST
South Africans from all walks of life are getting in on the Airbnb action. Elizabeth Sleith chats to some about what it’s like to share their spaces
‘LAVENDERS BLUE’
Joburg-based Patti Legg’s own holiday home in the Victorian village of Stanford, Western Cape, is one of several she has listed on the site
Please tell us a bit about yourself
I enjoy travelling, cooking, hiking and visiting exciting destinations around the world.
How did you get into hosting on Airbnb and why did you decide to do it?
I have a holiday home in Stanford, and together with my business partner, run a holiday letting agency. When Airbnb came on the scene, we decided to give it a try to assess their systems. I listed my two Johannesburg properties, The Poppyseed and The Studio, and have been so impressed with the excellent booking portal Airbnb provides. The guest/host review system is superb and sets Airbnb way ahead of any other booking system.
How long have you been doing it?
The first property was listed in 2014.
Tell us a bit about the property. What do you think makes it stand out from other listings in the area?
Lavenders Blue is a quaint, thatched, self-catering holiday home. It has a very inviting patio with a hammock and a day bed and the most glorious views of the mountains over vineyards.
I think it stands out because it has been furnished and decorated with the comfort and convenience of holiday guests in mind. I provide luxury linen and quality furniture and equipment. Regular maintenance and a good team of housekeepers maintain these high standards.
What do you like about hosting?
I love meeting and interacting with guests and making them feel welcome.
I really enjoy being able to help firsttime visitors enjoy every aspect of South Africa, while feeling secure and safe with some “insider” knowledge.
Anything you dislike about hosting?
Some guests are very difficult to please and leave unfair reviews that are harmful to the overall profile. South Africa is challenging with power and water cuts, and unpredictable cell and internet connectivity — especially in a rural area.
Describe the most interesting/oddest guest you’ve ever had
My most treasured guests were from Mozambique, who came to Joburg for the birth of their son. I had the joy of being around to help them and be a surrogate gran.
My most interesting guest was a single lady from Alaska who was so willing to experience everything SA has to offer — the epitome of an intrepid traveller.
If you could choose anyone in the world to come and stay at your place, who would it be and why?
Barack Obama — he is an inspiration as a leader, a statesman, a husband, a father. And I’m sure he needs a good holiday.
What’s your top tip for new Airbnb hosts?
Be generous, warm and welcoming and give your guests everything you would like to get, if you were checking into a home on the other side of the world.