Introducing Jillian Russell and her remarkable new short-term rental, the Base Camper Inn. Nestled just outside of Lexington, Kentucky, this unique shipping container home opened its doors in March 2024. Inspired by a desire to create one-of-a-kind, epic getaway experiences, Jillian and her family have poured their passion for adventure into every corner of this property.
From the moment guests arrive at the Base Camper Inn, they're greeted with an array of unique features, including a rooftop deck, a twisty slide, swings, an indoor/outdoor bar, and even a lifesize bird's nest loft! Her dedication to creating memorable guest experiences sets Jillian's property apart from others in the market.
Partnering with Minoan has been instrumental in her journey, allowing Jillian to furnish the property with high-quality, budget-friendly pieces that impress guests and add to the home's charm. Keep reading to dive deeper into Jillian's hosting journey and the secrets behind her quick success.
Q: How long have you been a short-term rental host?
A: Our vacation rental just opened in March of 2024!
Q: What inspired you to get into hosting?
A: We want to create one-of-a-kind epic getaway experiences that our family and others can enjoy.
Q: What markets are you in currently?
A: Our property is located outside of Lexington, Kentucky.
Q: How many properties are in your portfolio?
A: We currently have one property, Base Camper Inn, and it’s a shipping container home.
Q: Do you self-manage the properties, or do you have a co-host?
A: We use a property management company, Red River Gorge Getaways.
Q: What are your biggest challenges as an STR owner?
A: One of our biggest challenges has been to not take feedback from guests personally but instead use it to improve the stay for future adventurers.
Q: What are you doing to differentiate your properties from others in your same market to create a memorable guest experience?
A: From the second you step foot in the Base Camper Inn, there is opportunity for adventure at every angle, including a rooftop deck, a twisty slide, swings, an indoor/outdoor bar, and even a lifesize bird nest loft! Staying at the Base Camper Inn is an experience people will never forget.
Q: If you could shout one thing from the rooftops to other STR hosts getting started, what would it be?
A: Use Minoan and be creative! Put yourself outside of the comfort zone of what you would choose in your own home. Strive to be different from other rentals in your area.
Q: Are there any specific items in your properties guests seem to always notice, or ask about?
A: Our beautiful “juniper” Moccamaster coffee pot.
Q: What are your favorite Minoan brands and why?
A: Dorai sells eco-friendly kitchen and bathroom products. Their kitchen items are made of eco-friendly and sustainable materials, and they dry instantly. It’s like watching a magic trick!
Q: How has Minoan helped you with your short-term rentals?
A: Minoan has allowed us to bring in beautiful, well-made pieces of furniture that otherwise would have been out of our budget.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about Minoan?
A: The shoppable experience that allows our guests to “try before they buy” and have easy access to premium products.
Q: What's one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you first started setting up your STRs?
A: It was a lot of sweat and tears but is totally worth it when you see the beautiful end result and know that our guests will love it.
Q: What is your most rewarding experience or memory as a host?
A: When we finished the property, the photographer came in and was flabbergasted! He loved our design and decor and the way we developed a theme. He was one of the first people to see the finished product, and it gave us confidence that we had built something unique that people would love. It’s also great when people post how much they are enjoying the space and share images with us.
Would you like to be featured in our host spotlight series?
Email us at host-spotlight@minoanexperience.com
