Cabin

COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE

Riverside cabin with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE

French Doors open fr living room onto 2 decks, 1 protected
w/sunshade, 1 open.
Too hot?  Too sunny?  This sunshaded Grdn Room w/tropicals is always just right!
Fill your pipe and your glass of wine and watch kyakers/wildlife on the River.
This yard is 100% private, filled with songbirds, eagles, pelicans, and more!
Livingroom abuts kitchen and cozy breakfast table.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5100.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Circuit of the Americas
  • Place, Lady Bird Lake
  • Place, University of Texas at Austin
  • Airport, Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.)

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Murphy Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bunk Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE

PENNY RIVER is perched on a bank above the beautiful Colorado River with a million-dollar view of its wildlife and surroundings.. Happy families can be seen below picnicking, camping, fishing and boating. As though the view from the deck weren't special enough, the property is gated, privacy-fenced and located a mere 15-20 minutes average from every main center of north, central and south Austin.

You must travel through an old trailer park to get to us, but as one guest recently noted, "Everything on the PENNY RIVER side of the entrance gate is a little paradise." We rigrously sanitize and disinfect the property inside and out. Kids love the 3rd bedroom (bunk bed) we just added and the ability to "camp out" on air mattresses (provided) in our small but cozy living room is welcomed.


Mom and dad get a master bedroom on a beautiful new Tuft N Needle King Size bed, along with their own private bathroom. A combination Guest Room/Study accommodates a single adult who also gets his or her own private bathroom. At the far end of the cabin is the all-new Bunk Room, accommodating a single child or adult, who shares the Guest Bathroom. We get lots of families with kids, so we've added air mattresses and put them in a cedar chest in the living room where the kids can access them and "camp out" at night. It's been a big hit!

KICK BACK...
in PENNY RIVER'S Athens Mountain Pine Cabin. It is super-efficient, comfy and features decor that leans antique. Hit the deck and take in the beautiful Colorado River with all its wildlife and hundreds of songbirds. Moms, pops, kids, seniors, friends, all welcome. Parties are allowed but please advise us at the time of the booking of your plans and the speicfic number of anticipated guests you will invite. and the expected duration of their stay and the duration of the party. . A huge plus at PENNY RIVER is that your cabin is basically 100% private; the owner lives on the property as well, but in a fenced-off, separated area. A reminder safety-wise is that the entire property is gated and fenced (except the side open to the river), adding a major degree of safety for you, your family, possessions and automobiles.

Management patrols the propertyseveral times daily at no extra charge. Night lights feature motion-detection activation. Management does not enter the cabin while rented unless some emergency prevails (issue with water or electricity, etc.)

Nights at Penny River can be nearly magical. An impressive 115' x 30' back yard, plush with St Augustine grass, opens to a huge night sky above. Moonlight lights are especially captivating. Grill on the new Mexican Brick Patio below, which in combination with the deck can handle up to a dozen bodies comfortably. A sliding glass kitchen window allows through-food-service to the deck for convenient serving and quick clean-up.

A traveler's bonus is that you do NOT have to go through Austin to get to PENNY RIVER. For just a few bucks, the 130 Toll Road will deliver travelers from the North and South to an exit mere minutes from the cabin; similarly, the all-new Highway 71 freeway allows East-West arrivals to skirt a bustling Ausin traffic. Both accesses can cut up to 45 minutes from your trip !

If it's a quiet, peaceful, secluded getaway you want, we can say with absolute certainty that you will NOT find anything in all of Austin at any price even remotely like PENNY RIVER. It is positively unique. You'll want to fill your pipe with your favorite tobacco, pop a favorite bottle of wine and never again move from your relazing chair on the deck. Promise. Kick back and drift off into the peace and quiet of our river retreat.

INSIDE THE CABIN:
Every attempt is made to stock the cabin with essentials (paper towels, bathroom tissue, mosquito spray, shampoo, charcoal starter, etc.). Should you throw a party for guests other than those booked, please give us a body county in advance and, most especially, AN AUTOMOBILE COUNT. This is to make sure you can advise guests in advance as to where on the street overflow parking is permitted, avoiding towaway.

If you do decide to explore downtown Austin don't miss beautiful Zilker Park, which abuts an amazing botanical garden. There are hiking trails everywhere. Ask locals what THEY like and don't be afraid to ask them what you'd like to see and explore. Austin is extremely friendly. There are dozens of pamphlets in the Cabin's living room that feature Austin and surrounding-area highlights.

Once again, as we are subject to scheduled and sometimes unscheduled maintenance (lawn mowing, a plumbing problem, an electric failure resulting from a brownout or blackout) we will always attempt to give you as much advanced notice as possible before accessing the general area of your cabin. If we can't reach you, we may need to access your area unannounced. Unscheduled maintenance emergencies may not allow much advanced notice and possibly none. Thank you for understanding. It is your safety and well-being that are front and center.

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 1:30 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Principle may not rent for others; minor not allowed alone on property. Mandatory cabin tour. Advanced notice required for arrivals after 10pm.
Sorry, no pets. Smoking outside only. 2 autos max parking. No fireworks. Bunk Guard Rail must be used when bunk is engaged.
Your privacy is paramount, but alarms, sprinkler sys, night lights, gen. maint. and other unanticipated situations are attended unannounced.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Del Valle

Located in Del Valle, this cabin is in the city centre and on a river. Sixth Street and South Congress Avenue are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lady Bird Lake and Zilker Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Circuit of the Americas or Moody Center. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Austin, TX

What's nearby

  • Circuit of the Americas - 8 min drive - 14.2 km
  • Lady Bird Lake - 10 min drive - 13.1 km
  • South Congress Avenue - 14 min drive - 20.9 km
  • Austin Convention Center - 14 min drive - 16.8 km
  • University of Texas at Austin - 14 min drive - 16.5 km

Getting around

  • Austin Station - 23 min drive
  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) - 5 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Second Bar + Kitchen - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪24 Diner - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Whataburger - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-out at COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE?

Checkout is at 1:30 PM.

Where is COZY, RIVER-FRONT CABIN, GATED, PRIVATE, ROMANTIC AND UNIQUE located?

Located in the heart of Del Valle, this cabin is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Colorado River and within 9 miles (15 km) of Sixth Street and Austin Convention Center. Lady Bird Lake and East Sixth Street are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 108 out of 122 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 122 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 122 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 122 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 122 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

2.0/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

8.6/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Richard H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Owner

James was a gracious and professional. The view from the balcony was awesome
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karina R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend away

We were giving a detailed tour of the place. Jim was very communicative and answered our questions. The beds were comfortable. The space was perfect for our group.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Family Stay

Host was very helpful! Place was as described and worked out perfectly for our Thanksgiving visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Samantha W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday Get-a-way

This property was just like the photos and better. The area is secluded and quiet with a nice view of the Colorado River. The property owner was communicative and responded promptly. The property offers a very functional kitchen to cook for a family and excellent washer and dryer to get your laundry done before you end your trip!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen M., McKinney, Texas

Great weekend

We loved the place! The deck is amazing , birdsong fills the air and Jim was a wonderful host who helped us whenever needed. We all slept well while here and hated to leave on Sunday
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Laurie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mom/Daughter Getaway

This property was a perfect location for our family time, trip to Waco and proximity to Austin airport. Jim was so extremely accommodating and even drove me to the airport early in the morning. If you are looking to getaway this place is perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kevin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cabin in the city

The house was very comfortable and well equipped. The host was very accommodating and made sure we had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet Home Base

My wife, a friend, and stayed at Penny River for 4 nights while we were in town for a multi-day event. It was perfectly located between the two venues we were attending. One near Manor, and one in SE downtown. With traffic it was about 20 minutes to each. The cabin was a great place to come back to after the day's activites and relax. The neighborhood may look a little scary to some, but it was nice, quiet, and peaceful.. Jim, the host was very attentive and took great care of us.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deanne S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Great host, great patio, great property

We were in Austin for a week for our daughter's wedding. We had numerous friends and family visit us at the property. There is plenty of parking, plenty of chairs, great patio and a great view of the river. The host lives behind the property which was a great asset as he was always "on call" if/when we needed him. The property is close to the airport so that was also a plus for us as we had lots of folks coming and going. I highly recommend this VRBO for folks who want a quiet place with rustic beauty.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melinda G., Houston, Texas America

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Gem of a Find!

Penny River is a great find. We were able to go in and relax away from others. We enjoyed the tranquility of the property. We spent one-day hiking in the hills. It was perfect to go back to Penny River to unwind and enjoy a cold beverage. Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in May 2020

10/10 Excellent

Stephane L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Penny River

When we arrived Jim met us and gave us a tour around the property. It was honestly a very gorgeous place it felt like we were somewhere other then texas which was a great relief. It was a quite neighborhood and and far enough away from the city but also close enough as well. Jim didnt bother us at all he was a very accommodating host. It was a very relaxing vacation we had at Penny River that we didnt wanna leave.We will honestly try to stay here soon again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sherrie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So glad we found this comfortable cabin!

We love this place! The cabin was exactly what we needed for visiting family over the Memorial Day week. We used the grill for burgers and had everything we could possibly need in the kitchen - as well as in the rest of the home. The beds are comfortable, there is a tub for those of us who like that, the neighbors were very quiet, and our extremely kind host was the perfect combination of attentive when needed and private the rest of the time. When we come back to the Austin area we will certainly check the availability of The Penny River Cabin! Thanks again for sharing your wonderful place with us Jim!!! :)
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023

4/10 Poor

Dorothy D.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Great host, property needs attention

Jim was an attentive host, meeting us upon arrival and even bringing my husband birthday cake. This home looks lovely from outside, despite being in a sketchy neighborhood. Location relative to Austin is excellent. The back deck view is glorious. It appears house interior has been painted a darker color from photos on website. The cleaning crew was not attentive to detail, in this abode that is definitely Jim's home base, and a lot of Jim's personal items were within eyesight. Decor is dated. As well, he does stay on property about 10 steps from the doors. We introverts are unused to this. Small things could help...clothes hooks in bathrooms, clothes hangers (not wire), light fixtures that provide more light and that work. Clean bathroom and bedroom rugs (carpet is old), working outlets in bathroom and water flow in master bath definitely needs improvement...Jim pointed this out. We realize there are bugs in Tx; we had live "visitors" come out the first few evenings and mornings.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Theresa G., Ohio

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just minutes from the city but feels like a million miles!

We came to the area and had booked another location. It was awful and we were able to get full refund. We quickly jumped on and found Penny Lane - this quaint little home on the Colorado River. We booked it. We were interested in coming right away...the owner, Jim reached out and as he had someone that night we stayed at hotel and checked in the very next day. Jim arranged for us to have early arrival - AWESOME. Jim met us upon arrival and gave us a quick walk through of the place. Offering use of any of the MANY products to use - everything from sunscreen to spices for cooking. This place was set up for home! Jim was on property - but never seen - the home is a very secluded private fully fenced (except for the side overlooking the Colorado River).....he was staying on other side of fence....so we felt alone. Now, the home was awesome with its large outside deck and smaller enclosed porch to enjoy, fully stocked kitchen, very comfortable memory foam mattress, large tv in living room and bedroom but what really put it over the top was the friendly service and care Jim took. We were out late one night and he messaged us through the ap that he would be turning on the outside lights for us...and he did - how fun to drive up to the gated home...press the opener and see the porch lights and the decorative lights over the deck all a glow. The net morning we awoke to a flat tire and the need to get to a conference in the city. We had a tow coming so we let Jim know we needed to keep the gate open and filled him in. We Uber'd to event. We later received a message that we were welcome to his car if needed or he would happily drive us around...and he meant it! Later that day, our conference was until after 9pm - we again got a message to see if he could help us with a ride and to let us know he again would have lights on. What an absolute gem this man is! HE told us noone would be checking in the day we were to depart so stay as long as we would like, no hurry to check out by 1. When we left he came out as we loaded up and just gave us the kindest send off. WOW! Pros: Gated - fenced - private property, clean, early check in/late check out no issue, beautiful views, comfortable bed, fully stocked kitchen and bath, amazing owner, minutes from downtown and area parks, washer, dryer Cons: low water pressure in master bath (I really had to stretch to find a con about this place!), enter neighborhood through trailer park but its quiet and safe
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jason B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay. Very quiet and peaceful location. We will return in our next visit to Austin. J
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patrick A.

Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Disliked: Location
Overall the stay was nice. The host was very communicative and extremely nice. The neighborhood is not great but the home is gated in the back and has a much different feel than the neighborhood in which you enter to arrive which makes it nicer. Although I never saw any alive bugs in the home there were dead ones in corners of the home throughout. Even though I had some concerns it was a very pleasant stay and would probably stay there again if I was coming back to the area. 8/10
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Caleb B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay at Penny River during a race weekend at COTA. Jim has a beautiful home on the banks of the Colorado thet almost makes you forget your in a bustling city like Austin The home is an easy 15 minute drive to COTA, and the airport is even closer. I would definitely recommend staying for a race weekend, or just a getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keri W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

State track meet

This place was perfect for us to go watch our school compete at the state track meet!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Clinton L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Really quiet and peaceful

Really nice property. Setting on the patio at night it was hard to tell that it was like a 10 minute Uber from downtown. Really enjoyable and clean property. Manager is very friendly and enjoyed the stay throughly.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint and cozy, great communication with the host

Hubby and a co-worker had a job at Tesla for a few days. This property was literally 5 minutes from the airport and 5 minutes to Tesla - it couldn't have been more convenient. The host was very easy to communicate with, and we'll book again with him in the future if another Tesla job comes up for us
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good stay in Austin

Jim is a nice host, gated property. Good location to many parts of Austin.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

A Nice Stay

My friends and I came for a bachelorette trip, and we enjoyed our stay. Everyone commented on how cute the cabin was and enjoyed the stay. Mr. Jim was very nice and accommodating. I apricated the tour of the property when I arrived to go over the rules and regulations of the cabin. We all had a great time and would book again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shannon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love this place!

Jim is a wonderful host and is always there to greet you. The home is so charming and is just as described. We’ve stayed here more than once and if we are going to COTA I look early so I can stay with Jim.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carey F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Austin Adjacent Property

Well stocked, conveniently located home with a very comfortable bed and sofas. Nice outdoor area with grill for outdoor living - weather permitting. Quick and easy access to the highway and Austin and an extemely amenable host who let us have a late check out because our flight out was delayed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Graduation weekend

We were in town for our daughter's graduation. The location was perfect for us as it was outside of town, but very close to the airport. The backyard view is beautiful, and the host was very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

About the host

Hosted by Jim Lacey

Host profile image

"STAY 3 NIGHTS, GET A 4th NIGHT FREE!"

Jim is a native Texan of Laredo, Tx, and a Vietnam War Era vet, a pianist, guitarist, composer, artist and inventor, now retired. He proudly boats past recordings with major recording artists the likes of Dusty Springfield, Dame Cleo Laine, JJ Johnson, Kai Winding, Georgie Fame, SONY films and numerous jingles written for WalMart, Paddington Beer and others. Always anxious to meet new folks and hear their stories, he understands many guests are renting Penny River for privacy, quiet and communing with nature. In all of Austin, regardless of what you're willing to pay, you will find nothing to match the breathtaking beauty of Penny River with its million songbirds, abundant wildlife and full moon nights, set perfectly along the beautiful Colorado River. ]
SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS INLUDE:
KING BED (2)....................................Master (has full private bathroom)
GUEST BED (1) .................................Murphy Bed (Guest Room, full bathroom adjacent)
BUNKBED (1)....................................Bunk (Guest Room #2, uses Guest Bed #1 bath)
LIVING ROOM (use Guest Bed #1 Bath)
b, KIDS CAMPOUT FUN (2)....Air Mattresses
c, LEATHER SOFA (1).................NON-FOLD OUT

Why they chose this property

-Tucked into the far back corner of an old farming community, Pennyr River is east of Austin, meaning it catches the prevailing south-easterly winds and virtually zero pollution of a growing Austin. Nights on the deck are positively spectacular bathed in a choice of two different soft lighting options -- or no light at all, other than the moon. You won't forget Penny River, that's a promise.

What makes this property unique

No question about it, the QUIET out here is everyone's favorite thing.. The pure, clean air us unmatched. Sit on the deck with a glass of your favorite wine, roll your own and watch the pelicans and ducks and fish hawks for hours. Because it rests on a bluff 42 feet above the river while the far bank is only 25 feet above it, the far bank is in the flood plain and can never be built upon, locking in the amazing view that opens for miles and miles.

Within a very short drive there are numerous walking trails and retreats, Austin ranking among the top Greenway Belts in the nation. Trails here are extremely well marked and maintained, identifying length of walk to be expected and often include terrific photos of the wildlife you can expect to encounter. Histories, mating practices, eating habits and evolution are explained.

Once here the last thing you'll want to leave is the peace and quiet, but should your needs be to venture into Austin you'll be happy to learn that the cabin is situated mere minutes from the 3 main arteries into Austin that connect the North, Central and South sides, respectively. To give you just a quick idea, you are 3 blocks from toll road 130, connecting to San Antonio and the Mexican Border at Laredo; 4 minutes from Bergstrom Airport, 6 minutes from Circuit of the Americas Formula One racing track, 1 minute from the arterty connecting to Houston and the Gulf Coast and 2 minutes from connecting to Hwy 71 if the call you're hearing is "Go West young man, go West!". The one thing you can count on when it's time to leave Penny River is that you'll be back. That's a promise.

Languages:

English, Spanish