She thought it was just an accidental Airbnb booking—until it revealed a surprising truth about her father
Many people are curious to learn about their forefathers and how their ancestors lived. There is something refreshing about the adventure of discovering your own history and experiencing it. A woman named Maria Florencia from Buenos Aires, Argentina, was curious to discover more about her lineage and took a trip to Italy, the Good News Network reported. During her time, she decided to book a stay at Castel San Lorenzo via Airbnb. When the woman arrived and went digging further about her dad’s roots, she was surprised to learn a truth about him. Without knowing it, she was closer to him than she’d ever imagined.
The outlet recalled the period from 1850 to 1950, during which 3.5 million Italians moved to Argentina over time. The country is today home to 30% of Italians whose ancestors left behind everything to explore, venture and redefine the boundaries of life. Among these were Florencia’s ancestors, too. She recalled how her dad had moved to Argentina and how she was eager to learn more about his life in Italy. Since her dad spent much of his life growing up in his home country, she traveled to Italy and took up a place in Castel San Lorenzo. The woman had done her research as best as she could. She carried photographs and everything she had with her to enrich her search for her dad’s life.
As any guest would search, the woman wanted the best Airbnb, which would provide an authentic and wonderful stay. She came across the place hosted by Margherita and Enza, a mother-daughter duo who happened to have amazing reviews on the site. Seeing the 5 stars, Florencia met with the hosts and was excited to embark on the trip. Instead of simply seeing a space with authentic Italian roots, the woman was stoked to uncover a baffling coincidence. The very Airbnb she’d been living in was her father’s childhood home. As she looked through pictures and tried to connect dots with the information she had, she learned that her father grew up within those same walls.
The hosts were stunned to learn of the reality and after their recollection, were able to confirm that they did indeed purchase the property from Florencia’s grandparents. To think of the fulfillment, the nostalgia and the emotional sentiments the place instantly offered the woman is beyond heartwarming. Florencia was delighted to spend the rest of her stay at the Airbnb, knowing she had uncovered a major part of her dad’s story. The owners also helped her get a more insightful learning of the place and its rich history, making the experience satisfying. Soaking in all the memories, rich ancestry and coincidences, Florencia bid goodbye to Margherita and Enza with a full heart.
Sharing her experience in a review on the site, the woman noted, “My stay was magical, I rented that place to get to know the place where my father was born and it turned out to be the property where he lived when he was little. The host was always attentive and helpful in everything, making it possible to have a nice stay. Very nice and clean place, I recommend it without hesitation.” Nothing screams full circle more than having a travel purpose fulfilled by a magical coincidence.
