Where to begin. First, the location was excellent. But location alone cannot justify staying here, unless you plan on being here for only one or two nights and you come knowing what I am going to share. I can put up with anything for a couple of nights. I was here for 11. However, there were so many shortcomings, disappointments and irritations I lost count. But I will list some of the worst.
The shower is a disaster. I won’t take the time to explain all that goes into that assessment, but trust me, it ranks up there with the worst ones I have ever had at an Airbnb. The place is described as Cosy but a more accurate word is cramped. It is even hard to get through the front door. And don’t even get me started on going out to the patio with its 3 doors. The photos in the listing were staged and the photographer used strategically located mirrors to make the place look bigger than it is. That said, when one effectively pays $110/night, I think it is fair to expect more than one single drinking glass, towels that haven’t been spoiled by bleach spilled on them, a new sponge to clean dishes (one of my pet peeves because you have no idea where that sponge has been), a couple of chip clips maybe, a pair of scissors, replacement roll of toilet paper, a dish towel that isn’t frayed and stained, you get the picture. A welcoming bottle of water might be nice, they only cost $.35. Maybe some tea bags and coffee. What I found was a used tube of Colgate toothpaste in the utensil drawer. Lastly, while the place is surface clean, the floor tile is porous and filthy. I wiped up a spill and was alarmed at just how dirty the floor is. Just be aware.
What I do not want those who read this review is to think I am mad. I am not. Spending time in Rome does not permit one to be mad. But my feelings are that I was taken advantage of. Even considering the location, there is a certain level of expectation of amenities and comfort that we’re not present….in a big way! Airbnb is quick to tell visitors to treat places respectfully, that these are people’s homes. How about giving us a place where the simple basics are present, let alone a few amenities or thoughtful touches that say: “ Glad you’re here, I want you to have a great stay, thanks for choosing this place”.
One last thing. There is no TV as listed. Silvia told me as such after I requested my reservation, so I knew there wasn’t one. But the cynic in me now wonders if that is a ploy. After all, she has been hosting for a long time. and has plenty of time to remove that from her listing.
Finally. As I said. If all you want or expect is a crash pad for two nights, go for it. My limited interaction with Silvia leads me to think she is a lovely person, but all the high ratings on Airbnb influenced my choice and I felt my expectations were not met, that I was disillusioned and overcharged and feel I have the obligation to fellow travelers to give my assessment.