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For many visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea, their first and perhaps most consistent contact with the locals comes at the lodging property that accommodates them. We are fortunate to have so many beautiful and inviting properties here, with passionate and dedicated innkeepers who unfailingly will go the extra mile to make their guests feel right at home. This "Inn-Side Look" series is designed to give visitors an up close and personal peek into some of our properties.

The Vagabond's House
Dolores Street at Fourth Avenue
Accommodations: 13 (two suites)
www.vagabondshouseinn.com
831.624.7738

How long has your inn operated in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Thomas Rogers, innkeeper. A total of 68 years, and always by the same name.

Are there any interesting historical or unique anecdotes about your property?

Thomas: Our name celebrates Don Blanding, the early 20^th century bestselling author and poet who beautifully illustrated his works with elaborate pen-and-ink drawings. Much of his California works were penned at The Vagabond's House and his most famous poem, Vagabond's House, still inspires our decor of things collected.
The Vagabond's House continues to celebrate the arts in many ways. We host annual artist and writer retreats, and we rotate our artwork to highlight local artists. Guests often enjoy accomplished composers at our Steinway. Much of the short film, Stefano Formaggio, was filmed at The Vagabond's House in 2013.

What reasons do your frequent repeat guests give as to why they keep coming back to your inn when they visit Carmel?

Thomas: It is such a peaceful place. The rooms are not cluttered and are very clean. The beds are like clouds. You can read, write, paint or compose while sitting in the courtyard next to the fire pit with the sound of a cascading waterfall. It's all so peaceful.

What "go-the-extra-mile" steps does your inn take to ensure your guests have a memorable stay?

Thomas: Above all the great things we do for them and above all the luxuries we provide during their stay, we're nice to our guests. It sounds simple, but I think people appreciate it!

What's the most unusual recommendation/question a guest has asked of your front desk personnel?

Thomas: I can think of a couple interesting or humorous incidences, but considering that discretion is paramount in hospitality, I feel like I would be "telling on someone" if I spoke of them. What truly makes a lasting impression is when we find out that the person playing our Steinway tonight was a 2013 double Grammy Award winner or that the person who just checked into #10 is one of the most accomplished and influential models of all time. You think "OMG, if I could only tell the world who is sleeping here!" It's fun to live in a town where even the "A-listers" know they can hide out in comfort.

Why do you love being an innkeeper?

Thomas: The people.

The sweet ones, the loud ones, the quiet ones, the happy ones, the sad ones, the appreciative and, yes, even the mean ones. Each one brings a unique and individual life story. Some share openly, some poetically, some with timidity and some even unapologetically.
We love them all and celebrate the diversity of their lives!
My staff appreciates that I teach them to embrace the challenge of bringing the most difficult of guests to the ecstasy of a smile before check out!