Having visited Berlin on two previous occasions, staying in very nice Airbnb properties, we were somewhat disappointed with ‘Sandra’s’ place.
When booking, (some months ago) we didn’t realise the Berlin Marathon was on during our stay. With the benefit of hindsight, I’m assuming this is why there appeared to be so few properties available in our price range and why we ultimately booked this particular property.
Our group consisted of myself, husband, teenage daughter & her friend, so we need somewhere with two separate sleeping areas.
The appartment was spacious enough, and offered adequate sleeping arrangements for our group. However, there was no communal area to speak of, which meant we felt compelled to spend little time in the appartment in the evening, despite being tired after long days of sightseeing. This was ok for a short stay, but I wouldn’t recommend if you’re planning a longer visit.
The appartment was also set up to sleep at least 7 guests! It was certainly adequate for 4, but no more than that. The long narrow kitchen only sat 3 at a table for four, jammed in a corner. The kitchen itself was a bit ‘shabby’ and could have done with a lick of paint.
To clarify, I’m not generally looking for 5 star accommodation and have had many positive experiences with Airbnb, but this one wasn’t of the standard I’ve come to expect. The beds were comfortable, and basics such as bedding and towels were provided, but had long since seen better days.
We were each provided with a worn bath towel and no hand towels were provided for the bathroom.
On a positive note, the building itself & neighbourhood was very nice. It was also well located for public transport, being a short walk from the M4 tramline.
Communication was good & the property owner was quick to reply to messages. However, we had to be met at the property to be shown in by a member of his staff. The owner was very obliging in allowing us in earlier than the 3pm check in but we ended up sitting outside the property for almost an hour, while his staff member made their way there. Not ideal when you have been travelling for hours. A key box would have made this stage much less stressful for both ourselves and the poor man who did his best to get to us quickly.
On the whole we had a pleasant stay but wouldn’t return to this property.
It was generally overpriced and not of the quality you’d expect for the money paid.