I have never written a negative review as I generally give the host the benefit of the doubt and move on. This is an exception...
I arrived at 7pm, check-in was smooth with security at the gate. Nice and helpful.
The apartment itself is dimly lit and has a stale/moldy/damp smell. I took pictures of the soiled/smelly furniture. If you have volunteered at a homeless shelter it smells like that.
I then opened one bathroom and found 2 cockroaches on the door (and took pictures).
I politely informed Josefina about my discoveries and told her I would not be staying at her place due to these issues. She apologised and asked me to leave the keys on the table which I did.
She had mentioned that cockroaches are common in Mexican homes. I have never seen a cockroach in an Airbnb and I have stayed in several Airbnb’s in Mexico and South East Asia. I didn’t mention this to her as to not exacerbate the situation.
The next day I asked for a refund, contacted both Josefina and Airbnb and provided my photos. I offered to pay for the one night despite not actually staying as a courtesy. The balance was refunded.
Today Josefina requested an additional $200+ writing quote, “the guest modified the reservation having blocked the calendar. It also caused him to fumigate WITHOUT NEED”
I didn’t block the calendar nor force her to fumigate. I have evidence of all my claims.
The choice is yours, but its safe to say I won’t be staying here again.