Five Star Living
Short term rental strategy, Big Island travel guides, seasonal finds, and the things I actually use. From a creative director of 20 years and an Airbnb host since 2016.
Short Term Rentals
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Holiday
Lifestyle
So You Want to Be an Amazon Influencer
The beginner course for turning your everyday shopping into a second income stream.
Where to Stay for Kona Ironman 2026
Where to stay for Ironman Kona 2026, from Alii Drive to Keauhou to Waikoloa, plus how far each option puts you from the race course.
The Best Vacation Rental in Kona Hawaii on Ali'i Drive
Airbnb and vacation rental options in Kona Hawaii, what to look for when booking, and why Ali'i Drive is the best home base for your trip.
Why the "Bedbug Claim" Is One of the Most Common Host Complaints
A guest claiming bedbugs to score a refund is one of the oldest tricks in Airbnb hosting. Here's how to spot it, respond fast, and protect your listing.
Airbnb's New 15.5% Host Fee Explained (What Changed & How to Adjust)
Airbnb shifted its service fee to a 15.5% host-only model. Here's exactly what changed, why hosts are upset, and how to adjust your pricing without losing income.
What to Do When a Guest’s Dog Damages Your Rental
When a pet-friendly stay leaves damage, here’s how to document it, charge fairly, and decide if your pet policy still makes sense.
Best Ways to Rent a Car in Kona, Hawaii
My honest take on renting a car in Kona, Hawaii: my biggest rental mistakes, a comparison of every option, and whether you actually need a Jeep.
The Ultimate Guide to Couples Halloween Costume Ideas
Browse the best couples Halloween costume ideas, from matching classics to this year's trending pop culture picks. Shop everything you need to coordinate.
The Ultimate Guide to Trending Kids Halloween Costume Ideas
Browse the trending kids Halloween costume ideas for 2026, from Rumi and Minecraft to Toy Story 5 and Bluey. Shop everything you need for trick or treating.
The Ultimate Guide to Halloween Candy for Trick or Treaters
Stock up on the best Halloween candy for trick or treaters, fun non candy treats, and adult favorites. Shop everything you need for the big night in one place.
Ironman Kona 2026: The Ultimate Training and Packing Guide
Everything you need to know about training for Ironman Kona 2026, including the heat acclimatization tips and packing list nobody warns you about.
Best Restaurants in Captain Cook, Hawaii
South of Kona, Captain Cook is home to some of the most authentic and beloved food on the Big Island. Here's where to eat — from legendary laulau to clifftop breakfast views.
Halloween Decor Ideas: Indoor and Outdoor Inspiration for Your Home
Get into the Halloween spirit with decor ideas for both indoors and out. From porch displays to cozy interior touches, here's how to decorate your whole home this year.
Best Restaurants in Waikoloa, Hawaii: Where to Eat on the Kohala Coast
From beachside cocktails at Lava Lava Beach Club to fresh sushi and resort dining, here is where to eat in Waikoloa — the Kohala Coast's most underrated food scene.
Best Restaurants in Waimea, Hawaii
From legendary farm-to-table dining to craft beer and yakitori, here's where to eat in Waimea, Hawaii — the Big Island's upcountry food town that most visitors skip entirely.
Driving Around the Big Island in One Day: Is It Worth It?
Discover how to drive around the Big Island of Hawaii in one day with this scenic road trip itinerary featuring waterfalls, black sand beaches, Hilo, and more.
The Ultimate 4th of July Gift Guide: Funny Patriotic Shirts for Everyone You Love
Looking for the perfect 4th of July gift? These funny patriotic shirts for dads, grandpas, moms, and dog moms are made to order and ship in time for the holiday.
How an Airbnb Listing Optimization Helped Me Generate $6,000 in Bookings in One Week
See how an Airbnb listing optimization generated $6,000 in bookings and transformed my short-term rental strategy.
Best Restaurants in Los Gatos, California
Best restaurants in Los Gatos, California for breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and bars with gluten-free favorites, menus, and reservations.
Hiking on the Big Island of Hawaii: Trails for Every Level
The best hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii for every skill level — from easy waterfall walks to the Captain Cook Monument. What to pack, what to watch out for, and where to go after.
The Definitive Guide to Coffee Shops in Kona Hawaii
The best coffee shops in Kona Hawaii from someone who does not even drink coffee. Where to go, what to order, and what to bring home.
Airbnb shifted its service fee to a 15.5% host-only model. Here's exactly what changed, why hosts are upset, and how to adjust your pricing without losing income.