I did my due diligence through Trip Advisor, read many reviews and made reservations. This was a great plan, but got derailed when it came to the B & B I stayed at in Soldatna.
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| 150# Halibut caught |
They don't take credit card payments, and ask that 1/2 is paid upfront, and the rest with a check upon check-in. I didn't want to bring a check, so paid the full amount a month prior to my arrival. Within two weeks of leaving, I get an email from the owners asking if I could transport this 18 year old man to both fishing excursions. (one of which is 1.5 hours away) He is not old enough to rent a car. I immediately wrote back and said I was uncomfortable with this, being a single woman. They sent two more emails reiterating the fact he had no transportation. (I am thinking this is NOT my problem)
Upon check in, Monica again asked if I would transport him, and again I said I was uncomfortable. Not sure why this took 4 times! She said they would pay for a taxi. This young man and I were the only two from the Lodge on this specific charter, the others were staying in Homer.
When finished fishing in the ocean (long day - 6:30 am to 6:00 pm) the other fishermen asked if I wanted to go to dinner with them, as they were all from Colorado too. SURE, we all had a great time all day! This young man asked if I would take him back to the B & B, and said I was going to dinner.
BE VERY CAREFUL with the fees they charge -
Upon arrival (at 9 pm) at the B & B I saw this young man at the breakfast bar, and many of the other guests were sitting at the giant table in the dining area. I told him, glad he made it back, and one of the staff members were talking to his mom. Evidentally, the B & B charged double for this young man to stay at the B & B with the assurance he would have transportation. (there is no dinner served and not many restaurants are close by) After they paid for the taxi, they put this charge on this mom's credit card. She was furious! So, not only trying to get ME to transport him (and no repayment for gas or car rental), they did not hold up their end of the bargain. Since when are other guests required to do this? Why was this my responsibility on MY vacation?
Then one of the guests at the dining table stood up and gave me his two cents about leaving this young boy at the dock and not having a way back! They all got up and left! REALLY???? How about the other side of the story?
At that point I knew either I could stay in my room and not be affected by the other guests' opinions of this situation, or leave. I did not go river fishing the next morning and asked to have my fish ready so I could leave. I stayed in Anchorage my last night in Alaska.
Upon my return I sent an email to these owners of the Soldatna B & B asking for a one night refund of my room rate, since I was left unwelcome and not of my choosing. They chose not even to respond. They also charged me extra because I was single. Strange, hotels don't charge if you are single!
The rooms have no insulation, you hear everyone walking around at night, taking showers and using the restrooms.
I would think twice before you book a room at this Lodge!
