The rug is as expected although slightly darker than I had hoped.  I didn't encounter any of the smell past the initial opening some of the other reviews had noted.  I have had the rug for over a week now and it still curls up on the ends and does not lay completely flat causing potential tripping.  The material is rough, kind of like a scratching post which is perfect for my cats.  However, no animals nor kids lay/walk on it as it "hurts" (per my kid).  I very much like the rug and it does have that beach house feel to it, but for its purpose I'll need to find something a little more family friendly & cozier.   Would be perfect for a back patio tiki style bar/grill.