A very difficult review to write. We were the first Airbnb guests in this property and we were looking forward to our stay; based both on the pictures and the location. Sadly, excitement soon turned to disappointment and frustration.
The property is in a wonderful location - literally overlooking Plaza Dorrego - and from the outside, entry hall and 1930s style elevator all looked well: Until we entered the apartment. As we were the first guests, I would have assumed and hoped the owners would have gone through the property looking meticulously at everything and making sure everything was pristine and in good working order. Sadly that was not the case. On entering the apartment, it was clear no heating was switched on (this in one of the coldest Buenos Aires winters with temperatures at the time around minus 4c); in fact a quick look at the heaters in the apartment clearly showed that they had not been working or serviced in a long while. And sadly, while the apartment is beautiful and has some wonderful furniture, it has been neglected, and no attempt made to repaint, repair or improve for Airbnb paying guests. After a walk through the apartment, we also found the front door lock was not working and we were quite literally stuck in the apartment, as by leaving we could not re-enter. Thankfully we were able to contact the host Aisha who returned with a handyman to repair one of the two locks and also, at our request, try to switch on the heating. Sadly at the end of our 10 day stay, the heating still only worked in half of the apartment, meaning for the duration of our stay we had to keep closed the doors to the wonderful living room; and use a portable heater in the bathroom. As to the bathroom, it needs much updating, it was cold and the window was not properly sealed which meant the freezing outside air was allowed to enter - we partially solved the problem by stuffing the gaps with bathroom tissue. All the taps in the shower/bath need replacing. Only the shower worked but it was just a trickle; but at least the water was hot.
The kitchen was also lacking. Though the plates and glassware were adequate, the cutlery was old - as were the pots and pans which were also scratched and unpleasant, none of which we used. Indeed, everything appeared to have been collected over the years and simply left for use. And as with the rest of the apartment, the kitchen was I’m afraid in a rather shabby state.
The one saving grace was that the host Aisha was readily available and always responded and did the best she could.
I truly hate having to write such a negative review; but the apartment really should not have been rented in such a state. Having said that, the apartment has some beautiful features, some elegant pieces of furniture and is in a wonderful location. If it were updated and given much tender love and affection I would certainly return and recommend to others.