Arbour Lodge Guest House

Ilona was so easygoing when I arrived late and let me in without making a fuss. I still feel a bit bad about it! My room was great, and so was the town. I stayed earlier this year and the place has stayed with me, so I wanted to share how good it was. I’ll be back soon.

After ten years of constant work travel, staying at hundreds of resorts, time-share units, guest houses and B&Bs, this was a real letdown. I plan and pay for my trips in advance, and I usually make a point of supporting small local businesses. The kitchen cupboard varnish was sticky, the floor was dirty, and the cupboards smelled mouldy. There was no non-slip bath or shower mat, and the beds had only a mattress cover and duvet, no flat sheets. I’ve never had a hostess treat me so rudely or make me feel so unwelcome.

Beacon Bay in East London is reason enough to book this place. I’ve travelled all over and stayed in plenty of B&Bs, but none has come close to this gem. If you’re in the area, it’s a must. Haven’t visited East London yet? This place should get you there. Just go.

We had training here for the whole week, and the dogs were allowed to mingle with us. The other colleagues and trainers didn’t mind them, but I just couldn’t stand being around them.