Our experience in the Malibu “Oasis suite” was mixed at best. To be fair, there were unusual severe weather conditions which affected the stay. However, even when crediting some hardship when dealing with the impacts of the storm, there were some issues that should be pointed out.
Short version:
The place is clean, tiny and tucked nicely between the hills and fairly close to the beach. As is, a normal-sized couple who is used to flexible arrangements (think camping), and who is busy doing outdoor stuff could be quite content here. In contrast, a family of 3 or even 4 with larger bodies will have a hard time to be comfortable since there is simply not enough space to move around and beds are uncomfortable and too small. There are some kitchen appliances, but the place is better suited to warm up pre-made foods. Bathroom and showers are great.
Long version:
For starters, the advertisement of the place on Airbnb creates some misleading expectations that could be easily avoided by just sticking to what the place really provides. There is nothing wrong with disclosing some limitations that are quite evident after arrival. I suppose that many people feel like myself that they rather would like to know exactly what to expect.
First, this is a garden basement level flat tucked away in the back of the house. The place is rather dark, there is no valley view of any kind, “garden view” while formally true, is a stretch.
Second, this space is small. Granted, “small space” is included in the “studio” designation, however, it is worth denoting that this is especially tiny. Indeed, space is so limited that when using it with 3 people, it resembles more a camper situation with constantly moving furniture or people around to do anything. There is simply no way to be there with 4 guests as suggested on the website!!! The place would be best for 2 and could still work for 2 with a small child.
Third, tying in the former issue, the bed is also small. This was good enough for us, 5’10”, 5’6” slim adults, but it may become a problem for a larger sized person. The expandable sofa “bed” is extremely uncomfortable and simply should not be used for a larger child or adult. Since it is clear that the space cannot host a better solution, I suggest to just remove it altogether and advertise as a couples landing (and an option of adding a small bed if needed)
Fourth, the bathroom is indeed the best space in the studio. The fact that almost every reviewer revels about it, makes a case in point because it emphasizes on the complementary limitations of the main living space.
Fifth, the whole place is stuffed with things that nobody needs, like pillows, hats and decorations. Here the hosts could do much more with less. This includes the attempt to create a kitchen which is commendable, but utterly fails. There is simply no space to cook and most importantly there is no sink for dishes. The bathroom sink does not drain well enough to be useable for cooking purposes. The hosts would do better to advertise this including the obvious limitations. In my view, it would not hurt do describe the situation as is, for example “heating/microwaving of some food is possible. Limited cooking ability”.
Sixth, the electric safety situation is not ideal. There are a bunch of extension cords connecting the “kitchen” and other electronic devices. Fuses are blown once too many appliances are started simultaneously which can be managed with some care. However, the electronic connections created some hazards during the rain storm when water entered through the walls.
Lastly, there were issues with communication and business practice I need to share. So, short after booking the place the host urged us to “add Christmas” into the booking. This was repeated and stopped only after I pointed out that I was working on Christmas Holiday. Other issues I chose not to share here, but I communicated in private to the host to improve upon.
Overall, the place can work for the appropriate clientele. I would like to urge the owners to advertise it more close to reality.