MY MOVE TO SPAIN--AN UPDATE

 Kwei--Wed

Peacock Art Sunroom (Image: Kwei Quartey)

I’m just jumping on for a quick update on my move to Oviedo, España. I had a stressful last week moving to temporary lodgings at an Airbnb, since my lease at my Pasadena apartment came to an end. Booking an Airbnb is a bit of a crapshoot, and yeah, my first choice was indeed crap. Not a welcoming appearance outside.

What color is that? Bile? (Image: Kwei Quartey)

 Inside wasn’t much better. Apart from the cramped quarters that lent a lie to the online photo, the kitchen light didn’t work, and the bathroom had mildew and a moldy odor. Meanwhile, transmitted noise from the people upstairs was so loud that I might as well have had roommates. 

To be fair, the hosts were responsive and prompt, although it appears they were a management setup rather than the owners themselves. They didn’t know what the kitchen light looked like, and I had to send them a photo. After 8 days, an electrician arrived to replace it, but by then, I’d already informed the host that I was so uncomfortable that there was no way I could stay for another 2 weeks (my departure is July 30). 

I chose a new place, and this time, struck gold.  A nice neighborhood, good surroundings, a zen courtyard, spotless interior (and bathroom!), nice touches like free water and chocolate (won’t eat) in the full-size fridge, slippers to wear indoors, good crockery, comfy bed and sofa, a full all-purpose table where I can both eat and do my work, and plenty closet space. 

Good meditation spot? (Image: Kwei Quartey)

The property is called The Peacock Art Showroom because there’s an ostentation of peacocks wandering around the neighborhood. Funnily enough, I once stayed at an Airbnb in Accra (Esther’s Hotel) that also had peacocks on the premises. 

Spotless digs (Image: Kwei Quartey)

So, now I have some peace of mind and should be in good standing to tackle my next move--the big one!