(Post #55) Housesitting Detour – Includes a Dinner, and a Ditch-the-Airbnb Dash

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I had this fantastic idea—why not break up my long drive from Brentwood Bay to Courtenay by spending the night in Nanaimo the day before? So much better than hitting the road at 5am, gripping the steering wheel through long weekend chaos. I found myself a charming little Airbnb: private room, private bathroom, and a full-size fridge for all the groceries I seem to haul from one sit to the next. Perfect.

While driving, I figured I could use my extra time to connect with Larry, one of my future house-sit hosts for 2026. Since he won’t actually be in the home when I arrive next year, why not meet him and his dog now, and get the lay of the land? Naturally—my HouseSitters Canada app decided to misbehave. Nothing loaded. On to Plan B.

What was Plan B? I messaged Charles, who lives right there in Nanaimo. Since I’d now have the whole evening free, why not meet up for a drink and chat about our upcoming golf plans? Remember Charles? The kind soul I accidentally called instead of my cousin. Gentle, thoughtful, fully retired, and genuinely enjoying life. Honestly, I get the feeling there’s not much in this world that would ever ruffle him enough to bring anger out in him. (Tiny wink to previous overseas travel drama. We’ll let that one stay packed away.)

Moments after I sent the message, Charles replied. Not only was he up for meeting, but he suggested dinner. How sweet is that?

I checked into the Airbnb at 3pm and it looked lovely—quiet, spotless, and so empty I wondered if I was the only guest. Then I caught a scent. You know those super-strong carpet fresheners that promise “mountain breeze” but really smell like chemical warfare? Yup. I threw open the windows, took a long shower in the giant bathroom, and headed off to dinner, hoping it would air out by bedtime.

Charles graciously picked me up, and dinner was an absolute delight. Honestly, I’d half forgotten what he looked like, but the moment he arrived, it all came back. Chivalry is clearly still alive in his world. Over delicious Thai food, we swapped stories—his big family, growing up in Hong Kong, how close he is to them and to his faith. He’s a widower who fills his days with pickle ball, Meetup groups, and simply savouring life. It was genuinely heartwarming. I shared some of my nomad tales, and he listened so intently. It’s nice to be truly heard. We agreed to touch base in a week about heading up to Campbell River for that quirky driving range once I’m settled in Courtenay. After all, five weeks in a new place is plenty of time for new adventures.

Charles dropped me off and I stepped back into the Airbnb. Still silent. I hadn’t heard a peep from the hosts. I went to my room to reassess the situation—only to be hit by that smell again. Stronger. I tried to bundle myself under the covers, but by 10:30pm I’d reached my limit. Flashbacks to my haunted house escape (minus the dogs this time, thankfully). I booked a lovely inn just five minutes away, sent the Airbnb hosts a tactful (and only slightly fibbing) message—no scathing reviews from me—and made my quick exit.

The inn was perfect. No mystery odours, just a spotless suite with a kitchenette, cozy living area, and big comfy bed. When I told Charles the next morning, he had nothing but kind words and concern. I felt a little bad ditching the Airbnb, but honestly? Grateful it all worked out—even if my housesitting gig started off a bit pricey.

Now I’m off to meet Sadie the dog and her young family. Can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings.



Location: Nanaimo, BC, Canada

Comments

  1. AnonymousJuly 7, 2025 at 1:09 AM

    Charles sounds like a lovely man and great company for you

    ReplyDelete

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