Catalpa Review by guest John B. Boss (06/22/2021)

Catalpa Review by John B. Boss

Less than two short hours from Chicago via the skyway is a charming getaway called the Catalpa Vacay Rental in Michigan City Indiana. Less than 10 minutes from Dunes Beach this charming and exquisite 3 bedroom and two bath home is the perfect destination for up to 6 guests. With a private drive and plenty of on-street parking, it is the perfect getaway. The lovely hosts Steve and Mary Champagne of Artsees Diner fame have tastefully decorated their home with warmth and fine attention to detail. Every wall and corner is covered in stunning blue, teal and seafoam decor which left a relaxing lakeside feeling during our visit. Each of the three themed rooms was adorned with one-of-a-kind furniture from local artist Marissa Rapier of Risscycled. We enjoyed a tropical, a Puerto Rico, and a Beatles-themed bedroom. All three rooms and surrounding decor reflected the host’s love of travel, music, and nature. The rooms provided a cozy and restful respite after visiting the many nearby attractions which include Canada Park, which was just down the street; and Blue Chip Casino, Friendship Botanic Gardens, St Julian Winery in nearby Union Pier, and of course the fine and friendly dining at Leed Public House.This one-of-a-kind vacation home has its own washer and dryer, superb WiFi, large television, and a fully stocked kitchen with everything need to entertain right down to the cake pans and platter. Each guest is treated to a bottle of Champagne from St Julian Winery and fresh breakfast muffins from Al’s Grocery. If the home isn't enough Le Garden de Champagne is a sight to behold. This on-site garden and venue is the perfect outdoor location for your personal stay or gathering under 25. The garden which is highlighted by a thriving Catalpa tree and over 30 varieties of plants is absolute perfection. The garden has plenty of tables, chairs, and of course umbrellas to comfortably host a small birthday, shower, wedding, or meeting. It also has a grill and performance spaces. Catering, wedding services, and entertainment are available for an additional charge. Evenings are the best at Catalpa. We took advantage of the fire pit and enjoyed a stunning array of lights which provided the perfect backdrop for the final evening of our stay. Steve and Mary are the perfect hosts making themselves available and assured our stay was a veritable treat. One of my guests broke a heel and Mary quickly came to the rescue with her glue gun. Everyone is welcome and loved at Catalpa. Everyone is family at Catalpa. It was a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chicago. Thank you, Steve and Mary. We’ll be back.

Link to Catalpa 

And...Introducing Catalpa!

Catalpa, a beautiful tree with heart-shaped leaves and orchid-like blooms in the spring, right? Well, yes you are right, however, it is also the name of the newest addition to the ArtSees Diner, Champagne Experience Family! It is our short-term vacation rental in the heart of the coolest beach community southwest of Saugatuck. Actually, the Hungry Hollow/Canada Park neighborhood is going to be the next Saugatuck, mark my words! 

Our beautiful little bungalow is a blend of chill and boho meets "artsee." You see there is currently only one tree in the private backyard oasis and that is a glorious catalpa. While neighboring properties lend ample shade, it is the catalpa that we believe defines this property. She is many things and produces many changes throughout the spring-summer season. 

Catalpa boasts the perfect backyard surrounded by a 6ft tall privacy fence that can be locked to increase privacy. There are numerous deck spaces as well as a cabana-like patio complete with a fire pit, gas grill, and wait until you see the flowers and plants! It is the perfect event space. We imagine small weddings, bridal showers, birthday parties, and even intimate live concerts.

The property is not conducive to our fur friends and children, but it is perfect for young couples, seasoned travelers, and individuals looking to go from simple to sublime at a moment's notice. We look forward to welcoming you and those you love to your home away from home experience. 

https://airbnb.com/h/catalpa-bungalow-garden-paradise-michigan-city