Location was perfect! The flat got a bit warm, but we adapted. The only issue we had may have been simple misunderstanding.
My elderly mother and I were traveling together and got stuck on our way to London at a train station. Parts of the rail are under construction so “rail replacement buses” are provided instead. Our bus was due in at 230pm and we would have arrived in London around 430. The bus never came. My roaming service didn’t work. My mom and I were running around trying to get an internet connection on my phone so I could access Janet’s info to alert her that we wouldn’t be there as intended.
My mom finally was able to get her phone company on the phone and to link my phone to hers so I could use my saved login to access Janets info. When I told her that we were delayed due to bus and train mishaps- she asked me to get a cab to London (2hour cab ride?).
I explained we couldn’t do that and she said she didn’t have a way to let us into the flat. Needless to say, after an afternoon of frustration in the hot sun, my first response was to start crying. My mom has health issues and can’t sleep in a hostel.
I told Janet that we either needed a full refund so I could book a new room, or she had to find a way to connect with us and let us into the flat.
The conversation devolved quickly and Janet even threatened to NOT let us in- saying we could contact AirB&B.
I’m still a little fuzzy on how all this got so out of hand. I have great reviews, so does Janet. Maybe just miscommunication?
My only comment would be to expect difficulties and shortness if you rub into issues that inconvenience her.
Ultimately I told her we would show up at the flat ASAP (which ended up being almost 10pm once we got the replacement bus), and if she denied us entry then that would be that. I’ve never had a host be so unhelpful and rude in a situation where I felt unsafe and with no options PLUS had my elderly mother with me. I noticed she didn’t take the time to read my messages fully. Oh well.
The flat itself was very safe and a perfect location. Some little things were overlooked. Neither shower seals or closes completely, no instructions were left for Americans on how to use various European appliances. But overall, the location was great and the building was quite safe. I’d definitely rent in that building again- however, not from Janet. I’m sure the feeling is mutual.