Maison conviviale à Whitchurch

I arrived late August at Michael and Linda’s humble home.

I was tired, weary and nervous about moving into a new environment. I was welcomed into their house with a lovely cup of tea. They then proceeded to show me around the house and all the amenities.

The house by itself, is by no means special. The rooms are decently sized, tidy and comfortable. However, it is the family that lives in said house that brings the house to life. This I slowly came to learn over the course of a week.

Mornings were spent with a beverage of your choice (highly recommend coffee as they have several different kinds of coffees available) alongside sandwiches and eggs. Evenings were spent having delicious home-cooked food (Michael is an excellent Chef, just tell him “surprise me” and be impressed and filled by his selection of your would be dinner)that were incredibly heartwarming and fulfilling (P.S dinner can be arranged at extra cost, trust me, the price quoted is extremely reasonable and the quality of food is impeccable!).

Laundry was done easily enough as they have a washing machine available should you need to use it as well as tumble dryer. The showers are always hot. The house also boasts a centralised heating system, so fret not if you’re afraid of the cold. The TV has amazing channels on it should you feel the need to be entertained (there’s also an X-Box available). Wifi is pretty fast as well!

However, most often, I would find myself engaged in conversation with both Michael and Linda, exchanging stories and cultural details. I found out that they have an incredibly extensive experience in the line of being a host family/landlords.

They have hosted over 24 different nationalities and thus have a great understanding of each unique nationality. Their oldest tenant was over 50 years old by the way! Whatever age, ethnicity, gender, or nationality you are, you can expect to be treated well.

The atmosphere in this house is almost constantly packed with humour, conversation and a warm sense of belonging. Imagine a weekend back at your parents. Yes, this is exactly like it, except that it happens everyday. It almost feels as if they are your foster parents. They treat you with such respect, kindness and understanding, it’s surreal. Any issue can be resolved simply by talking to them (not that there were any issues to begin with).

I leave this place with a heavy heart. It frustrates me even further that I am unable to fully express this beautiful, soul enriching experience at Michael and Linda’s. I sincerely look forward to my next stay with them.

I came here as a tenant. I left here as family.