I was hesitant whether to write this review as I didn’t want to sound bitter or unpleasant however as this is a platform for transparency, I feel this will serve a purpose for others when considering this property.
I was put on my university clinical placement at Byron hospital—staying here for a total of 6 weeks. The property in itself is neat and comfortable with its location being convenient and in a peaceful neighbourhood.
But the positive ends here. The airbnb host made the stay uncomfortable by invading my privacy on multiple occasions—she would come knocking on my door without warning, while I was cooking to advise me to minimise my cooking time as there was no cross breeze. If this was an issue, she should then not advertise cooking amenities or advise against the use of them. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure adequate equipment is installed for cooking safety and my freedom to use the kitchen as this is what is included in the booking fee. Because of this I felt my privacy was massively invaded, as it seemed she was constantly aware of what I was doing and when I was cooking.

As I stayed for 6 weeks, my mother, last minute, flew up to stay with me on two occasions—the listing allows for two guests. I initially booked for 1 guest but even with the modifications between 1 or 2 guests, the listing price remains the same. She however, requested 2 cash payments from my mother of $100 for the two times she stayed (she stayed for 4 nights total). Outside of Airbnb policies. We naively agreed, however realised after the fact, that this transaction should be done via Airbnb and not via cash in person.

Due to the need to submit an assignment in person back at home, I had to leave Byron 2 days earlier than planned. I appreciate that Zan refunded me the second $100 for mum’s second stay to compensate for my early leave, but this entire situation really shouldn’t have occurred in the first place. I’m choosing not to directly report this incident to Airbnb HQ, because it’s likely to jeopardise her status as an airbnb host. But I’m writing this in hopes that upon self reflection, she can learn from this experience, but also to let future guests know that, if you decide to make a reservation for 1 person and happen to have a second guest stay temporarily, be prepared to pay extra fees which don’t correlate to her online listing.
On the last week of my stay, Byron was hit with extreme storm weather. The host was aware if how this would affect her Solar hot water system, but it wasn’t until I personally brought it up with her that I’ve had no hot water for 2 days, that she decided to resolve it. This to me, displays such a lack of professionalism, especially when the airbnb listing boasts of its accommodating nature.
This experience has left a sour taste in my mouth. For an airbnb listing which claims to have privacy and full access to kitchen amenities, this is disparate from the reality.