I booked this airbnb for 5 nights. I cancelled after one night because when the host showed me the room there were more rules and sleeping conditions I was unaware of until I slept there. The host wasn’t happy that I cancelled and didn’t tell her however because she has a strict cancellation policy I was unable to amend my booking and because she doesn’t like noise before 8am and I left early I felt uncomfortable telling her in person or look around for pen and paper in case I made noise. I found this airbnb stifling. Airbnb support cancelled on my behalf.
-There is strict cancellation policy
-In rules “quiet time” also means no talking.
-There are 27 plus rules. Some on the site and more when you book.
-Read all the rules
-Rules are also handwritten and stuck on the wardrobe door
-Some additional rules when shown the room; the wardrobe door has to be closed and shower mat used and put back (which included a demonstration).
-If the fan isn’t on this room is very hot and stuffy
-The add says “Airconditioning” and “There is airconditioning in the lounge room”. Guests are not allowed to use the lounge room and not allowed to use the portable airconditioning at night.
-The add says “the kitchen is available to guests to make meals from 8am to 8pm”.
Guests are only allowed to make one meal a day and for 45mins only.
-The add says “the room has a large ceiling fan”. The host does not tell you that the celing fan has to be on all night because the room is hot and stuffy. Nor is it mentioned that the window also has to be left open and there is no fly screen (bugs). Also there is no doona (because its hot and stuffy) and, if you are like me, you need something weighty to sleep.
-The add says “dedicated workspace”. There is a tray, with raised sides, on a stand. Not suitable for sitting and using laptop or writing.
-When I messaged the host requesting a refund she said “I have never had guests complain about my rules”. This is not true. And also “The ceiling fan is there to keep one cool, that is why it has to be on, just like with air-conditioning”. This isn’t in the add and wasn’t mentioned when I was shown the room.
-The add says “meeting guests and welcoming them is one of my favorite things”. Unfortunately, I wasn’t greeted with a smile or friendly manner so I did not feel welcome.
-The add says “I am into staying youthful”. I’m not sure what is youthful about having so many rules.
-Some rules:
Close the doors quietly using the handle, DO NOT CLICK
When in the bathroom close the door when you come out LEAVE IT OPEN
Quiet time between 10pm and 8am – no phones ringing or talking
No guest access to lounge room
Leave toilet seat down
No shoes upstairs
Settle in for the night by 10pm or else let me know if you are coming late and come back only after 1130pm
Coming home for the night either before 9.30 p. m or after 11.30pm
Wipe excess water in the shower with window cleaner provided
Wipe basin with sponge provided
Clean up after eating and cooking
Conserve water by having at most 5-minute showers
Observe quiet time from 10 pm till 8 am - The air conditioning not to be used during those times either
When you are in the bathroom, always close the door behind you, and when leaving the bathroom leave the door open
When closing doors, do it quietly by using your hand on the handle rather than clicking the door shut
You can cook dinner, as long as it is between 7.15 and 8 pm
If you cook, that will be only once per day at certain times
You can use the canola oil for cooking, but not the olive oil.
If you want coffee, please bring your own.
Do not make breakfast before 8 am
No fresh or cooked food to be taken to bedroom
Wine or beer not to be taken into bedroom
I do not tolerate people who drink more than a little wine or beer
Clean after yourself in the kitchen and bathroom
Leave the toilet seat down
No large suitcases