TLDR: AVOID AT ALL COSTS!!
Where do I start? I was VERY excited for a "van life" vacation on Oahu. This whole thing just fell into my lap, and initially Titus was accommodating and communicated promptly. It was just a great idea, and I was captivated by the idea of freedom from hotels and city life.
As the booking drew nearer (and my deposit was no longer refundable) the details NOT accurately described in the booking start to cause issue. First off, it is ILLEGAL to camp in a vehicle on Oahu. Camp sites were mentioned in discussion, but only after my own research did I find out this truth. I will take some responsibility for this, as other guests have mentioned this fact. However, after spending 2+ years assisting an Airbnb superhost with a non-standard location, I know that FULL DISCLOSURE is critical prior to withholding a guests money. Especially regarding details that can cause a guest stress or additional expense on their vacation.
And then the "full coverage vehicle insurance" requirement became a deal breaking issue. Were you aware that in the US only a vehicle owner can obtain full coverage insurance? Neither did I...until my insurance company (GEICO) informed me that this was illegal, and impossible, to obtain. I contacted several other reputable companies who reiterated this issue. FYI a vehicle is insured in the US, NOT the owner. The owner/operator(s) obviously play a major role in rates and coverage, but the VEHICLE is what is covered by a policy. And typically, a vehicle's policy covers other drivers, although I am not sure of the implications of businesses operating vehicles registered to individuals...but that is an issue for the owner/business owner.
NOT the guest!!
I promptly notified Titus, who deflected and denied the legality issues described by my insurance company. He eventually recommended "Allianz Travel Insurance." Oh boy...these folks are scammy!! After a whopping 2 minutes I was offered a "policy" which would cost $88 for the week I would be renting the camper van. But stupid me READ the terms and discovered:
1: The policy does not cover vehicles older than 10 years old (the van is a 2006 Toyota Sienna FYI)
2: In BOLD, this policy does not provide ANY liability coverage and does NOT meet any legal obligation in that regard (paraphrased)
Now I could have accepted this worthless scam policy, and moved on with Titus and myself supposedly appeased. But unfortunately, I like to know that I am doing everything honestly and legally. Stupid, I know. But I refuse to put myself in a situation where myself or another person could be liable for any number of unforeseen issues stemming from my sweet van life trip.
It is simply not conducive to a relaxing vacation.
So I contacted AirBNB support. I was hoping that the legality issues would raise some concerns, and ultimately lead to a reasonable solution with some mediation.
WRONG!!
To this day Airbnb support is totally worthless and has zero concern for federal insurance law. I was passed from rep to rep who are always "about to leave work, but happy to pass me to a new rep!"
I have filed a chargeback with my bank, and I am following up with the Federal Trade Commission on fraud allegations against the host and Airbnb. I have also contacted the local DA's office regarding issues with a "religious non-profit" who is incredible unforgiving when pressed on issues of legality, honesty, and integrity.
Bottom Line: If you think this "van life" dream is perfect for you, think again. Read the reviews, research the issues with vehicle camping on Oahu, and listen to your gut if ANYTHING seems off. There are other camper van rentals available on Oahu...although the laws need to change before this is the super sweet deal that it is sold as. If you don't mind dealing with a ton of crap, or potentially being cited for illegal camping, then this may be for you!!