What a delightful experience all around!
As a newcomer to Airbnb, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I had always gone with largely reliable hotels but after a disastrous outing at what I later learned was a transient hotel, I decided my next trip to L.A. was going to be different. Pity I was so late to the game because Airbnb will now and forever be my first option thanks to Marianne.
So where to begin? My arrival went smoothly, and I was warmly greeted. Marianne gave me the tour of her lovely home so that I could feel comfortable right away. And wow- what a lovely home it is!
Nestled in the hills just off of Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills, it has a view looking down from the deck out back that's simply to die for! I spent a good portion of my 11 days relaxing on the large deck porch out back grilling steaks and soaking up the Mediterranean feel that Southern California has to offer.
Breathtaking landscapes aside, the spacious and accomodating interior of the home is filled with an extensive art collection comprised of historical and contemporary curiosities alike. This sort of thing isn't vital to a traveler such as myself, but what a charming touch that reflected the urbane and charming personality of the hostess. It was nice to relax and to shoot the breeze with her about our journeys and globetrotting adventures from years gone by.
I enjoyed every minute of my time here as my bedroom was equipped with a most comfortable bed, more than adequate closet space, Netflix, and a quietly relaxing atmosphere. After a long day of either business or pleasure it was nice to come back and enjoy some middle-age nostalgia with an episode of Cobra Kai before my pacifying environment lulled me to sleep.
Travelers will be pleased to find Marianne's home offers more than ample space for rest and relaxation with amenties that include a refrigerator solely for guests, a full bath, and a half bath. Never will you have to wait to share a bathroom should another guest also be present.
For those who are more culinarily-inclined, you be delighted by the full kitchen access offering just about every tool and spice you would need to prepare any dish you like. Not being much of a gourmet myself, I spent most of my time grilling because a little seasoning salt on top of a New York strip is the fastest way to something delicious and it's almost impossible to screw up.
One important thing I should mention is parking. I feel it's impirtant to mention that while street parking is ample, the roads are extremely narrow so you'll have to be mindful of your speed and surroundings as you weave through the hills. Reflectors are posted on almost every corner so please be careful of drivers who may not be so careful. Also, because the streets are so narrow, you may find that the spots directly in front of your house may already be taken. This was never a problem for me as I never had to park more than half a block away- just something to be aware of.
All in all, I give Marianne and her home a sincere 5 out 5 stars. Granted, this was my first time with Airbnb so I had nothing to conpare it to, but I was made to feel so welcome that it didn't really matter. She was a most generous and gracious hostess, and I'm confident that any guests willing to mind their manners will find it a great place to let their hair down while away on business or catching up on R&R. I intend to return to L.A. come December, and my hope is she'll have something available again because I'd love to return.
One last thing- for you dog lovers out there: Bella is a little sweetheart who will warm up to you once she gets to know you. She was kind enough to give me a little therapy and let me pat her head while watching TV. Just a nice little bonus- y'know?