The Airbnb Destination : Honeymoon Contest

Airbnb is all about connections - connecting to new people, places, and neighborhoods. In 150 words or less, tell us what your connection was like when you first met.

Ingrid and I had remarkably different impressions on first meeting. We ran into each other at a friend's Fourth of July barbecue. I was freshly back from Australia after a year abroad, and Ingrid was both fascinated by my stories of life down under, and in my "kind nature." I, on the other hand, was absolutely terrified of her, perfectly convinced she was out of my league. After all, she rode a Harley and had tattoos, but was double-majoring in Finance and Management Information Systems, and preparing for a lucrative career in the business world; pretty intense for a simple aspiring-social worker to handle. Nevertheless, she was willing to look past my awkward and nervous approach, and be wooed by an exciting match of croquet followed by margaritas.

Find a listing on airbnb.com that inspires you and tell us why.

http://www.airbnb.com/rooms/97090

This room is located in the neighborhood of Sydney, New South Whales where I spent the majority of my time in Australia. The area itself was absolutely stunning, both for the sub-tropical climate, gorgeous old buildings, eclectic and entertaining neighborhood, and the wonderful people. I have a great many fond memories, and can safely say that the time I spent there helped me find what I wanted to do in life. It has been a dream of mine to take Ingrid there one day, and share with her a place that I means so much to me.

We are all about unique accommodations. Tell us three things about your home together that are unique to you as a couple.

On first glance, most everyone notices the dog sitting by the door, and are astounded to find it is not real, but stuffed. Rufus is a stuffed golden retriever we found sitting in a children's toy shop, and that I was absolutely enchanted by. Ingrid kindly bought it for me, and I repaid her by making constant requests that she remember to let him out and give him fresh water regularly; she may now regret the decision.

Also present in our home are several icons to Our Lady of Guadalupe. Ingrid's Mexican heritage is extremely important to her, but something that was completely new to me on meeting her. Fortunately she has been very kind and patient in teaching me all about her culture, and I in turn have enjoyed embracing a history so fascinating and colorful.

Not inside of our home, but parked outside, one may see a Harley Davidson Iron 883 motorcycle, one that Ingrid is proud to own. She discovered motorcycles at an early age, and has been long fascinated by them; I, on the other hand, retained a feeling towards them somewhere between intimidation and outright fear. Ingrid was very encouraging, and as of last summer finally convinced me to learn how to ride. I'm still very much a beginner, but with only a few scars have becoming an enthusiast myself, and look forward to many long rides together.