I would like to begin by saying that I have stayed in many Airbnb’s in several different countries, including Paris once before, and my experiences in each were pleasant and remarkable. I booked this Airbnb Plus since I was intrigued with the idea of staying in an accommodation of the “highest quality” and paying a premium for it when it was anything but. Some objective observations-
- As required in an Airbnb Plus, toiletries were provided, however they were not enough to last two guests for the duration of the stay, so I purchased additional soap, shampoo & conditioner to use.
- 1 roll of toilet paper provided. We purchased additional rolls on our own.
- Dish soap bottle nearly empty and heavily diluted with water - we also went out to purchase more of this on our own.
- The Wifi/TV box would overheat and stop working after 20 mins of use. My friend, who is fluent in French contacted the host, asked for help, but they never came.
- The Air Conditioner would switch from providing cold to hot air automatically after 15 mins of use.
Does this accommodation provide all of the amenities it promises? Yes, but only just. What we had available only seemed like the bare minimum to tick the boxes in order for the listing to qualify for an Airbnb Plus Listing.
I struggled and put off writing this review since I am not terribly confrontational by nature, and it truly was my first negative experience with Airbnb. I don’t believe that what I paid matched with what was received. But what can one do when traveling? I had considered reaching out to Airbnb for another accommodation but I was there for a trade show and finding a new place to stay seemed like another headache as I was already questioning their competence.
This experience has turned me off to Airbnb as a whole for the rest of this trip, my onward journey to Belgium, Scotland and Iceland will all include staying at hotels instead.