BnB Diaries - Never a Dull Moment!

in Silver Bloggers3 days ago

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Never judge a book by its cover. How many times do I say that to myself?

Although I have many returning guests, some still book online. It's often like a lucky packet - some disappointing and some nice surprises.

I trust my gut feel, but when I have the time, I do a little online research beforehand, searching for the person's name and where they're from. It's quite astounding that even when someone has an unusual name, you'll find many with the same name!
I've even found some who work in the same field, and often live in the same city. Then it's hard to guess which is the right face. It's become like a game - when I recognise a face and already know a little about them but pretend I've never seen them. Well, truth be told, I've only seen them online!

There have been some dodgy guests, but thankfully, not many. Some look the part, so it's no surprise when they act up. Others are charming, like butter wouldn't melt in their mouths, and turn out to be real villains. Don't get me wrong, most of our guests are fabulous people, but there are exceptions.
Sometimes a guest arrives, and I think, here comes trouble - better keep a close eye on this one.
But I have been proven wrong on more than one occasion!

What do these dodgy guests get up to?
Well, the favourite trick is to book for one, but two arrive. Mostly, the guys get up to these tricks
Their excuses range from:

It's my cousin/ college buddy/ just a friend. She lives nearby and knows the area, and we haven't seen each other for a long time. You don't mind if she just stays for a little while?

'Well, only paying guests are given access. No visiting from tomorrow!'

Another excuse:
I booked for two, there must be a mistake!

'No sir, you need to check your booking confirmation, it clearly states one guest! You need to pay for the additional guest.'

The most ludicrous response was a guest who firmly stated:
Yes, that's right, I booked for one. One couple!
Judging from his vehicle, he was a top government department official with political connections.
I think my face must have been a picture! I was flabbergasted as he tried convincing me he was right. Hubby was still alive then and wisely said to just leave it. Just as well, because I have a feeling he would have made life difficult for us.

Then there was the gambler who posed as a VIP protection officer. Very charming, convincing, wore top brand clothes, had all the latest electronic devices, and a gold Rolex. His holey underwear gave him away when we did his laundry. He said he does not drink or smoke; big deal, but he knows how to pull the wool over one's eyes! He was also flashing cash around.

The VIPs I work for can call me anytime.
I gamble when I'm on leave. I've worked out a scheme, and I never lose. I also gamble for other people, and they pay me from the winnings. Yes, it's true, you can ask my girlfriend!

I had the most charming little man who at first glance looked very dodgy, but turned out to be a honey.

It takes all sorts to make the world go round, and the guests in my BnB for sure keep me entertained and on my toes!


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I'm sure you will have more than one interesting story of your guests, hehe.
And why not, maybe when you move you can actually write a book, the chronicles of your life managing a bnb, hehe.

Have a great weekend, Lizzie take care 🤗😘

 2 days ago  

Good idea Eli, I like the word 'chronicles', and I have a ton of memories that could fill a book😉 Fortunately mostly wonderful, but some a tad unnerving!
Have a wonderful Sunday, Eli🤗💞

I'm sure it's a tough gig sometimes! I have friends here who have a block of 8 small studio units behind their home. They're aimed at the younger end, simple, modern and clean. They bend over backwards for their guests, but say that sometimes, they are never going to be satisfied and will call for minuscule things at all hours of the night and day and moan about anything. They even had a bad review because 'the room had too much concrete'!
Obviously the good far outweighs the bad which is all you can hope for!

BEst wishes for a lovely weekend

 2 days ago (edited) 

Hi @nathen007, those are the exceptions. I've been very fortunate, 99% of our guests are awesome, it's been an amazing experience generating income from extra space on our property for the past couple of years. The Airbnb will be 10 years old in October.
Imagine giving a bad review because of too much concrete, just crazy!
Thank you for nice feedback, enjoy your Sunday!

Life is a mix, so invariably you should expect all sort of people coming as guests. They would be the nice ones and they would be the troublesome ones.

 2 days ago  

Yes you're right, cannot avoid that!

I loved reading your post. It has always seemed to me that having an inn must be a fascinating thing. Of course, I hadn't thought about that it also has its difficult points like solving every situation with those kind of cheating customers you mention.

Thanks for sharing my dear @lizelle . A big hug from Maracay.

 2 days ago  

Thankfully there aren't many like that, most of the guests are lovely people. It's been the best job ever.
A big hug back to you @irvinc 🤗

That's why I believed in what you say that we cannot judge the book by its cover. But there are times that first impressions last for me😬. Though it may change sometimes😁

 2 days ago  

Nice seeing you @asiaymalay, we've missed you in Silver Bloggers!
Yes, first impressions can stick but many of these people are so genuinely nice that you can't help bur forget and see them through new eyes😉

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 2 days ago  

Thank you so much @hivebuzz!

Go for it, @lizelle! Set your sights on that new target and keep pushing forward. Remember, every small step brings you closer to your goal.

Don't blame you trying to know a little more before with first time arrivals, never an easy task.

Yet as you said "Don't judge a book by it's cover", might be someone extra special, or not!

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 2 days ago  

Yes, one has to be careful.
It often turns out to be someone special!
I hope you're keeping well Joan.

Life is like a tumble weed, one day you feel you achieve, next simply tumbling around. I'm keeping busy, only way I know how to move forward slowly, trust you too are managing.

This was such a fun (and eye-opening) read!😄 It’s amazing how people can surprise you in both good and not-so-good ways. Your instincts and grace in handling tricky situations really show your experience. That “one couple” comment made me laugh out loud! 😂 You’ve got such a great way of storytelling, I could picture every scene.

!LADY