The Host with the Most: an Interview

For our last interview of the series, we've chosen to reflect on one of our own trips and get a fresh perspective. As avid supporters and regular users of AirBnb, we decided to ask fellow traveller and honorary wander woman Eva about what it's like to be a host for the popular accommodations' company. Even before arriving at their lovely home, we knew that our stay with Eva (and her partner Mike) would be a warm one. They knew exactly what to recommend to us for our style of travelling, and really took the time to get to know us. We found kindred spirits from the moment we crossed the threshold. After spending a wonderful breakfast together, Eva became a fan of the Nothern Wander Women blog, and we were so happy to see our mission in action. So when we started thinking about lining up interviews for a new series for the blog, it was a no-brainer to ask Eva (and Mike) if they'd be interested in being part of it. And just like they readily accepted our stay with them while we explored the Isle of Skye, they were happy to give us their perspective. Find out below the ins and outs of AirBnb from a couple of pros.


Q: What inspired you to want to become an AirBnB host?
A: The Island we live on and how much we love our view from the garden :-)

Q: Being located on the beautiful Isle of Skye, you must have a number of travellers seeking you out. What motivates you to keep hosting?
A: That people always love my homemade jams! :-)

Q: Do you mostly host locals who are exploring their own country, or foreigners? Where are the majority of your guests from?
A: Very few from this country. America, Australia, France, Germany, China, you name it!

Q: As a great host, have you ever been a guest? Have you ever used AirBnb and visited elsewhere? If so, what was one of your favourite locations to visit?
A: I've only used AirBnB twice, recently stayed near Gairloch and just loved it.

Q: The Isle of Skye has become a popular travel destination in the last decade, and has seen a remarkable increase in tourism especially in the last few years. With so much foot and vehicle traffic parading around the Isle, you must have had your fair share of good, (and possibly not so great) guests. How has the increase in tourism affected the Isle and what could you recommend to visitors to make sure that the Isle maintains its allure and natural beauty?
A: Please please guests! Do not switch off your thinking because its holiday times. Keep safety at the forefront of what you do, driving, walking etc. Far too many accidents etc

Q: As a well-experienced host in a desired area, hopeful guests must first request their stay with you, and once you’ve approved them, they may reserve. What are some of the key qualities you look for when deciding to accept a guest? Are there any interests or keywords you look for? Are there any that motivate you NOT to accept their request?
A: It's quite simple for us. Thoughtful and considerate is what we look for, as we try to be just the same. But it works both ways.

Q: If you had the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world, and time and money weren’t an issue, where would you go?
A: Ecuador.

Gen and I would like to give a big thanks to Eva and Mike for hosting us during our visit to the Isle of Skye and for their wonderful support. You and your home were a total gem! :)

Eva and Mike (he'd rather assist with the work behind the scenes), a Polish and English team who met some 13 years ago and moved to Scotland for the mountains and the sea. They run the BnB together and Eva also works as a self employed garden designer and gardener. They both love the outdoors, fresh air and good old fashion rock and roll!