The flat was just a short walk from the center of Seville. Unfortunately the wi-fi was never working, and the bedroom door had to be propped closed with a small table. But the stay went okay otherwise.

Thanks to Pedro and his wife for the friendly welcome. The accommodation was like a hostel or dorm room—safe but modest—and the bus doesn't drop off quite as close as we hoped—but it was being right on La Malagueta beach for enjoying seafood and drinks at the chiringuitos every afternoon that made our stay in Málaga a refreshing break from the extra wet and cool spring we found elsewhere in Andalucia this year. The walk into the center of Málaga along the Paseo every evening was something we enjoyed a lot, too. We'd stay here again.

We loved our stay in Granada—and Yasmin's flat was reasonably convenient and comfortable for seeing the sights. But we especially enjoyed the friendly welcome of her mom. Thank you for the patience with our modest ability with Spanish and for making us your delicious croquetas.

Arrival and check in went a little clumsy since we stayed with a different host than Roger (not sure whether we didn't quite understand that) not finding out what flat to ring in until after arriving. But apartment was big, comfortable and old-building-in-old-city charm in good location in the city. (Only enduring frustration was seldom having more than lukewarm shower water, occasionally cold.) Our hosts were largely absent yet very welcoming and kind.

After a month I felt genuine sadness to say goodbye to my new Spanish family Fanny, Julian and their son Pablo. In this time I enjoyed a tidy room and "space" of my own in the flat nearby to their home, and also joined them for two meals a day when my schedule permitted. The flat was close to getting around to everything in Madrid by metro or bus—and the neighborhood everywhere are safe and friendly for walking too. I loved trying all kinds of new Spanish foods, even some occasional Argentinian specialities, and nightly conversation about culture, history and whatever. Even joined Julian once to watch him perform at the Royal Opera. They were all so patient with my early Spanish skills, and while they understand quite a bit of English, would always speak patiently to me in Spanish with clear enunciation so I could improve my comprehension. The facilities were comfortable and felt like living in a real everyday home — which is exactly the experience I wanted — and a family experience also helped with homesickness. The price was very reasonable for this grad student :-) At the end of my stay the flat got a new paint makeover in yellow, which I thought makes it even more cheerful. What a tremendous life Fanny and Julian are living to be hosting four or five visitors regularly from all around the world, whether at the flat or in their home. I couldn't have had this experience were it not for Homestay Booking making it possible to meet this awesome family! I received much more than even I tried to give back.Thank you from my heart!