We rolled into Bob and Lily's place in Nara last Friday. We found them on airbnb and they boasted a western style house complete with all the trimmings. We were not disappointed. With the softest bed, the swankiest kitchen and biggest shower we'd seen since landing in Japan, we knew we were in for a few days of relaxation. Our room had a veranda with a view of the quiet neighborhood, and the scented nightlight made everything seem like home, wherever that might be. But the most comforting amenities were Bob and Lily themselves. The moment we crossed their threshold, they seemed less like hosts and more like the long lost cousins we remembered from childhood.
Bob is from Colorado, Lily grew up about an hour outside Shanghai. She dances salsa, he makes bagels. I'm not kidding. We're talking handmade dough, boiled on the stovetop and baked. I cried when the hot circles of joy came out of the oven.
They are knowledgeable about the area and extremely helpful. They print maps, give detailed directions, stock the fridge with your favorite breakfast foods and will happily dine with you at any one of their favorite haunts. If you ever happen to find yourself in Nara and need to kick back with members of the family you never knew you had, stay with Bob and Lily.
-Ken
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