As an entertainer I believe it is important that people should have the option for fun, particularly in the current climate of constant misery. I also believe that people should be able opt not to have fun- should they so choose.
But I take umbrage with folk who knowingly own or live (but mostly those who own) properties in the vicinity of existing bars and venues then rent out these what were once homes, for profit, to unwitting holidaymakers under the pretence that life in a rural idyl is always super quiet.
These unwitting holidaymakers then complain to the owners of these homes, who, at risk of getting a bum review (god forbid), in turn complain to the local venues providing much needed fun in these dark times- often venues which have provided this service for generations.
Obviously I also recognise that some people are unable to have fun, instead preferring to spread misery and expect rural towns to be dead. Then there are those who are more preoccupied with making a quick buck for their out-of-town pocket, at the expense of hard- working, and maybe even not so hard-working locals, who just want to have a good time.
Sure, rent out your places, suffocate local folk from an affordable housing market for your own gain, but at least be honest in your advertising on Airbnb or wherever. Tell them how old the buildings are, how thin the walls are and let them know how vibrant Rye really is. Avoid the hassle - maybe capitalise on how car free their break can be, but for goodness’ sake let those who live locally have the fun that they have always and rightly deserved. Lord knows - these folk could even join in the fun...
Your local bearded drag lady,
Timberlina
