Laure M.

My stay with Laure and Adrien was a stand-out experience that reminded me why I do this exchange. The most rewarding ones are the ones where it feels like both parties are taking the risk to trust and believe the best about a complete stranger. It’s not an easy thing to do, but when it works, it can remind you of the inherent goodness of people. From the beginning, it was clear that Laure is an extremely thoughtful and conscientious person. This is apparent in how she cares for her home and animals, and extends to those she entrusts with both. It is obvious Laure and Adrien are true lovers and respecters of nature and living creatures. A first-time housesit for a pet owner can be a nerve-wracking experience, but Laure handled it with immense grace and compassion. She was extremely detailed, inquisitive, open-hearted and above all, very appreciative of the work I do as a housesitter. She kept open lines of communication, made me feel at ease & was accommodating & flexible. Most of all, she handled this exchange — like I do — with lightness and a sense of humor. The beauty and charm of her home cannot be captured in photographs, but it is an absolutely enchanting oasis borne from a very vivid imagination. There is no shortage of details to marvel at. Her eye for both design and use is a gift. I rarely wanted to leave the house because with a hammock swinging from an apple tree, a pond full of fishes, gardens at every turn, seating areas that resemble Parisian cafes, and cat trees (which she built by hand), why would you want to? And that’s just the outside of the house! Inside is a plant paradise drenched in sunlight with a cozy & inviting energy. It truly felt like a retreat from the rest of the world. This all was only enhanced by the presence of the true owner of the house (sorry, Laure & Adrien), Pickett, the cat. Pickett is an absolute gentleman and was the perfect, purr-y companion for my first visit to the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. He was snuggly & welcoming, but also communicated his boundaries, which I appreciated. I left this sit feeling rejuvenated and totally satisfied, ready for the next adventure. Thank you so much, Laure and Adrien for an amazing sit!