thanks for the replies so far, i don't want this to sound rude but i really think my friends would be horrified if we spent a couple of hundred $ on something for them as they are offering the place to save us money (even though i know it wouldn't be as much as we would spend on regular accommodation) and while i agree that its very generous of them i don't want to offend them either IYKWIM

elocin: thats a good suggestion to wait and see if they need anything there, i know the owners go down once a month for a week so i think it is probably pretty well set up, i was relieved when they mentioned wine because i was desperately thinking what i could get, they also ask we bring in the mail and mow the lawn