Let's start with the positives:-
- The flat we stayed in was pretty good in overall size and is in a pretty good location, situated about halfway between Old Street (Northern line) and Liverpool St (multiple)
- (Initial) communication was good and prompt, following our completion of the booking
- Lovely big windows to see the street below so very good lighting in the main living area
- Convenient sofa bed in the lounge
- The information sheet about the door codes etc. was very helpful
Now for the negatives:-
- The flat wasn't the one we actually booked/paid for. We were contacted less than 48 hours before we could potentially check-in, to tell us that the flat we had booked had a maintenance issue (without any detail), but that they had an alternative in the same building, which was 'better'. This alternative apartment had one fewer bathroom and as six of us were due to be staying, that was a big pain. Long story short, Airbnb got involved and have now initiated a 30% refund which under the circumstances, we're happy about.
- It didn't feel very clean and was quite rough around the edges - lots of little things broken or damaged. Nothing major, but it just felt a little unloved.
- It lacked even some basics in the kitchen - lack of cooking utensils, no plug for the kitchen sink, no oil for cooking, no washing powder etc. Not that all of these things should be expected but when so many other Airbnb hosts provide these kinds of things, our stay felt a little underwhelming.
- The bathroom has little to no ventilation, and so got very steamy and hot very quickly
- The shower wasn't very powerful and the water didn't ever feel hot enough. Not 'too cold' to shower by any means, just not a nice showering experience
- The beds felt quite small - even two regular-sized adults struggled to sleep in one bed
- When we raised the issue about this 'better' apartment only having one bathroom despite our paying for two, communication slowed down, and lacked information. I was never told why the original flat wasn't habitable and more concerning is the fact that the alternative accommodation wasn't even listed with Airbnb, so I couldn't compare costs either.
- Despite knowing about it, the experience of collecting the key from an alternative location was slightly painful - especially if you're on your own and carrying lots of luggage.
Overall it was ok but I wouldn't stay here again