Every once in a while, you book somewhere to sleep and somehow leave with new friends.

That’s exactly what happened at Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia, about an hour outside Victoria, when we met our wonderful Airbnb hosts Sharon and Dean — and, of course, Luna.

Our original plan was simple: stay one night. What actually happened? We stayed four.

After weeks on the road, their Airbnb felt like absolute luxury — hot showers, a washer and dryer, a fully equipped kitchen, cozy fireplace and breakfast nook, and perhaps most importantly, an incredibly comfortable bed.

But Sharon and Dean were the real reason our stay became so memorable. Each evening they invited us into their home for dinner. Sharon prepared delicious meals while Dean poured wonderful wines and introduced John to Sleeman’s Honey Brown Lager.

We shared food, stories, laughter and long conversations about life and travel. By our fourth night, we were no longer simply staying at an Airbnb. We were staying with friends.

Sharon and Dean, thank you for opening not only your beautiful home to us, but your hearts as well. Plus Luna, of course.