Overall, the property itself internally is generally OK but the experience of renting this property failed on a number of counts. It feels like this property is (or has been) used as a longer-term corporate-type let which is being re-purposed as an Airbnb. Specific issues which we encountered include:
- There were no welcome instructions or manual of any kind which was a big issue. Whilst the letting company, Zivile, was responsive to texts, a lot of trouble could be avoided if simple information such as how to turn on the hot water or where to put the refuse was provided for the tenant. Having to text each and every time an issue came up could be avoided.
- There is no designated parking space for a car and this was not shared on the Airbnb listing when booking. Most of the parking slots around are numbered so you are expected to find an unmarked space a significant distance away and, even then, you are not sure whether you are parking in a permitted space or not. As there is no manual in the house, you have to learn this the hard way as I did when I found my car clamped and had to pay Euros 125 to get the clamp removed.
- The property is in the middle of a building site with substantial redevelopment going on around. Ok if you like excessive noise early in the morning and driving around ever-changing traffic bollards but not so good if you're trying to have a restful break.
- When using the bath for the first time upstairs, water started coming through the ceiling downstairs and shorted the smoke alarm causing it to go off at frequent intervals. To be fair, the letting company were quick to send someone round the next day to re-seal the bath but something again which you would prefer to avoid especially given the per night cost involved.
- Whilst there is a TV, there were no instructions on how to use it and we were unable to access any cable television channels. You can only watch TV on streaming services you pay for. No news/sports.
All in all, it was an unpleasant experience as there was a lot of added stress relating to the Airbnb while we were trying to have a restful break. Plenty of room for improvement.