First, let me explain what I’ve come to look for in an Airbnb experience; Safety, Location, Privacy, Comfort, and Accommodation. I want to know that the area is safe, not just for me, but for any family members or friends that may be with me during my visit. The location is important in determining how far I may need to travel for necessities or have others travel to see me. Privacy is paramount, as I am for the most a private individual with the motto “your business is your business and mine is mine”. I like to maintain a certain level of Comfort, particularly when in the company of family and/or friends. The type and number of amenities are “key” in determining that level. Last but not least, I appreciate hosts that are Accommodating, as Airbnb’s are not hotels, and unforeseen matters can sometimes occur. The question is, how accommodating will that host be in terms creating an enjoyable experience, or bare minimum, ensuring that all that was stated in their listing will be provided to you, particularly in the face of unforeseen events that might otherwise throw rain on your parade.
For this particular trip, I spent 4 nights, while visiting my 2-year old daughter in California. With that being said, here is what I noted about this particular listing...
SAFETY:
After reading several reviews from people of all sorts and different backgrounds, it appeared to be safe. After now staying there, myself, I can now confirm what I read in many reviews. The neighborhood appeared to have more of a calm, and relaxed. I briefly saw the neighbor step outside of her home and waved to her. She appeared to be kept to herself. I also observed groundskeepers cleaning around the property which I stayed, whom were friendly. The area felt very safe.
LOCATION:
It's about a 20 minute drive/Uber from Long Beach Airport, and a 5 minute drive/10-15 minute walk to and from local markets and restaurants.
PRIVACY:
My stay was in what appeared to be a room addition at the rear of the home, with its own private entry and full bathroom.
There were curtains, which covered a sliding door entryway to the room, and another pair of French doors on the opposite side of the room, that made for my own private space. No one bothered me throughout my stay.
COMFORT:
Here’s a list the amenities that were offered at this particular location, or at least the ones that were important to me; Wifi, TV, Air conditioning (ac), hot and cold drink water machine, Towels, bed sheets, soap, and toilet paper, Hot water, Microwave, Refrigerator, Private entrance, Bed and bath, Hangers, Shampoo, Bed linens, Extra pillows and blankets, Lock on bedroom door, Garden or backyard.
Of this entire list, there were only about 6 discrepancies. A few were no big deal, but 1 in particular left a bit of a bad taste in my mouth. Let’s start with the few “no big deal” discrepancies. When I arrived, I discovered a bottle of Tapatio hot sauce and an article of clothing behind the futon bed, as well as 3 bottles of water in the mini fridge. I threw the Tapatio hot sauce and article of clothing in trash. “No big deal”. I wasn’t sure if the 3 bottles of water in the mini fridge were complimentary. They were not mentioned in the listing, so I was inclined to believe that they were left behind by the previous guest. However, since I could not be sure, I left them alone. “No big deal”. There was no soap and contrary to the listing stating there to be extra blankets, there was actually only one. Since, I was the only one staying the night there, and my daughter just visiting during the day, I used the blanket at night for myself, while wrapping her in it during her afternoon naptime. “No big deal”. The water fountain appeared to be dusty, with cobwebs attached between the left side of the machine and the wall. My initial thought was that it was old and unserviceable, but upon pushing the button, it dispensed water properly. It’s appearance just didn’t leave the impression that it was safe to drink from it. However, since I brought my own beverages this was once again “no big deal”.
The “big deal” came with the lack of performance of the portable ac. It was subpar at best, blowing cool air for about a minute, and then fanned air for 3 minutes or so in a repetitive cycle. During the daytime, on 90+° day, it made for quite the sweaty days. It felt like a sauna. The only relief came after about 10pm, after the outside temperature fell below 80°, but I still had to face the portable ac directly at where I slept to avoid sweaty nights. “Big deal”!
ACCOMMODATING:
I explained the situation about the missing soap to Tom and he made sure that I received a bar of soap, as well as body wash sooner than later, which I was very appreciative of. However, after explaining the situation regarding the portable ac, I received no assistance. I was first asked to choose between the “cool” and “high fan” mode, which I’d explained that I had done so. Thereafter, he never responded to my complaints about the portable ac’s performance. Had it just been me, I may have just been annoyed, but my 2-year old daughter was sweating right along with me, during the day, and that is unacceptable.

OVERALL: I'd say this is the ideal alternative to a motel stay, depending on one's desired level of comfort. I wouldn't expect it to be the Ritz Carlton, nor would I expect the host to work with you on unforeseen events, but if you're looking for a safe, somewhat clean and private place to stay within the $50 price range, this could be the spot for you. Unfortunately, I can’t say it would be my first choice.