This was my first airbnb experience, and I am so glad I had Anka! I worried that staying in someone's house might be awkward, but from the start she was so friendly and caring that I felt right at home.
The room itself is spacious and comfy, and the house is stocked full of amenities like ipod players and luscious towels and a great kitchen. I prefer to make my own breakfast and lunch and it was no problem to do here. I also like having a code lock and a key to get into the house, it feels so safe.
The house is in the Castro, close to a ton of flamboyant fun, and also easy to get to public transportation and go anywhere. I asked Anka where to find a more hipster vibe and she had great suggestions. I didn't feel her presence too much in the house but when I texted her to ask a question she was happy to help.
So airbnb vs hotel: I think this is a more authentic way to stay in a city, in neighborhoods that don't have hotels but have great nook restaurants, cafes, music venues. You're not surrounded by hotel guests, you are like a local. It's cool.