As you know, what I look for in an Airbnb experience is Comfort, Location, Accommodation, Privacy and Safety (CLAPS), not necessarily in that order. So, let me give you the breakdown on my latest experience. For this particular trip, I sought to spend 4 nights in 1 of 4 bedrooms in Anna’s Airbnb, while visiting with my 3-year-old daughter in California. With that being said, here is what I noted about my stay...
SAFETY:
The neighborhood felt very safe and was peacefully quiet. I took a short late evening walk around the block to stretch my legs and felt quite at ease.
LOCATION:
It's about a 5-minute drive/Uber/Lyft from Long Beach Airport, and a 2-minute drive/5-10-minute walk to and from local parks and recreation, markets and restaurants.
PRIVACY:
As previously mentioned, my stay was in 1 of 4 bedrooms. My bedroom, which was labeled #4, like the others, had a 4-digit code lock on the bedroom door. However, prior to even making my way to room, there was also a 4-digit code lock on the front door at the entryway of the home. My understanding was that nobody, other than Anna and those with reservations to each individually reserved room, had either code, both of which Anna provided upon check-in. This provided for the privacy of each individual room and the privacy and security of all guests within the home from the outside public.
COMFORT:
Here’s a list of the amenities that I observed during my stay. It’s not to say that what was listed was not available. This was just my observation of what was readily available and useful to me.
My bedroom; Code lock on bedroom door, Wi-fi, Desk and chair (2), Pillows (2), Blankets (2), sheets (2), Towel (2), and hangers (7).
In the bathroom; Hot water, Hair dryer (1), Toilet paper (2), Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower gel and Bar of soap (1).
In the kitchen; Microwave, Refrigerator/freezer, stove/oven, Coffee maker, dishes and silverware.
The common areas within the home, included a living room, bathroom, and kitchen with an exit to a Backyard patio. However, be mindful as these areas, to include the bathroom, are shared. There was only one bathroom that I observed, between up to 4 guests. So, pick your spots lol.
On my first evening, close to 10pm, I contacted Anna because the temperature on the thermometer read 68°, which for me is a bit chilly. I informed her that thermostat setting was at 80°, and it said it was on, but the temperature remained at 68°. Before I knew it, Anna was knocking on my door with a portable heater with remote in hand. I slept like a rock, thereafter. I also noticed that she cleaned and replenished common areas of the home daily during my stay. I can by far say that this Airbnb was the cleanest and most comforting experience thus far. It felt like home away from home. And the price was reasonable, which is rare nowadays. The other guests are respectful, as well, which was very comforting. This was my first Airbnb experience where I had to share common areas with other guests. I was initially skeptical, as I tend to value my own space, but was relieved after having the chance to converse with 2 other guests, one of which was a soldier looking to relocate from Colorado. Being prior military, myself, as well as retired law enforcement, this really set my mind at ease.
ACCOMMODATING:
From beginning to end, Anna had been the most gracious of hosts. I normally shop for groceries prior to checking in at my reservation for nourishment throughout my stays. Anna was kind enough to arrange for my transportation from the grocery store to my reservation upon my arrival and for my transportation to the airport prior to my departure. I’m sure it was a bit inconvenient, because due to inclement weather, my incoming flight to California was delayed, causing my connecting flight to be rebooked. I had to reschedule our transportation arrangement to my reservation from 3pm to around 7pm, but Anna was very accommodating. She and her husband picked me up, drove me to my reservation and gave me a tour of the location. They were both kind and personable. In fact, at one point during my stay, when my plans fail through, Anna took notice, took time out of her schedule to inquire and show empathy. At another, but earlier point during my stay, I experienced a bit of a chilly evening, as previously stated. But moments after I sent a text to Anna, she brought a portable heater over, which made my night toasty and comfy. I have no complaints.
OVERALL: In all honesty, this Airbnb excelled in comparison to others and is, imo, beyond desirable. It was also considerably less expensive than other Airbnbs in the general area. So, if you’re looking for a clean and safe place to lay your head down at night, with a most gracious host, at an (at least for now) affordable rate, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try. It may very well be the place for you.