2016年1月8日星期五

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

You’d never guess that Holly Homestead in Franz Josef, has been operating as a boutique B & B for a number of years. There’s no hint of any previous guest’s footprint. That’s impressive, but not surprising. Owner/operators like Bernie and Gerard Oudemans, tend to set a much higher standard of care than the corporate owned properties.

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

Our premium suite was more like a spacious one-bedroomed apartment…

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

The actual bedroom was very large and I know it’s no big deal, but I noticed the magazines in the bedside cabinet were very current. The super-king bed is definitely a big deal to me.

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

When I think of a place called ‘home’ I don’t imagine chrome and grey interiors.  I think of waxed wood polished to a shine and good old fashioned runner carpets on stairs. I know I should be making good use of the weather in Franz Josef but that claw-foot bath is beckoning and I’d love a long soak:

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

I just want to lay back in the bath and gaze at the gold-plated tap fittings and gleaming surfaces on show. When I asked Bernie how long it took her to service each room to this standard. She just smiled and said “a while”. I bet!

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

Every room is full tonight, but Bernie gives each couple equal time to discuss their activities for the day ahead. You can’t beat the local knowledge folks! Next morning Bernie bustled around the kitchen table with plunger coffee and toast, while Gerard cooked breakfast. Now, here’s a man that considers if a job is worth doing, it should be done to perfection – no distractions. All the mushrooms on Michael’s plate are the same size and lined up like soldiers. The poached eggs are a work of art!

Holly Homestead – Kiwi Hospitality in Franz Josef

Michael with owners Bernie & Gerard Oudemans

This has been a great home away from home and just enough out of the main Franz Josef township to ensure a silent night of deep sleep. Holly Homestead attracts polite and friendly guests – yet another memory to savour.

Happy Travelling

没有评论:

发表评论