Each time a guest leaves a review it tends to match the interaction that I had with that person. If the person is agitated, depressed, angry or unhappy, their review is going to speak something of the same. If the person is light-hearted, grateful, content and jovial, then the review matches their demeanor. People live and express how they are feeling inside on the outside, it seems, as they demonstrate in the reviews of their experiences.
Often, the ‘bad’ reviews that are obviously intended to cause damage do not match the reality of what actually happened. Rather, they are sharing a story of their state of mind coupled with their expectations and their own agenda.
I have read guest say that the room is untidy, the mattress is horrible and they had a really bad sleep, the food was tasteless and they really missed the traditional breakfast. The very next day, a new guest arrives, stays in the same room and leaves a note stating that the room is immaculate, the bed is so comfortable and then expresses how much they enjoyed the peaceful, lush atmosphere and the delicious vegan breakfast. This is how I can see that the reviews are very, very personal and not always about me nor the hotel; it is each person’s own individual experience according to their state of mind…and their expectations.
This house was built in the late 1800’s and it is well over 135 years old. The house sits in the country side of the island and is surrounded by pastures where cows and horses graze, wild chickens roam and lush, wild foliage grows all around. However, if one is expecting a resort-like experience, they will be sadly disappointed. A century old plantation house is going to be filled with lots of quirks – and funky character. It lends well to a soothing, relaxing, elegant atmosphere too. It’s not a “cookie-cutter” style of environment like we find in resorts and city hotels. Truly, it is one of a kind.
And we are constantly upgrading, improving, repairing and replacing. This is an ongoing task with this gem of historical significance on the Big Island of Hawaii. Fortunately, it has been maintained well by each owner throughout the years and stands firm and steady on its lush and glorious land.