I hosted a large group of adults for a weekend trip in both properties owned by Saadi and Susanne (5th Ave Townhouse and The Downtowner), so this review will apply to both.
Without a doubt, the AirBnbs were a resounding hit and one of the highlights of the weekend. We had a packed weekend of activities and these spots allowed us to access the city center with ease, sleep like babies and have privacy if desired. Everybody remarked that they will keep this place in mind for future trips to Portland.
Pros:
- SO spacious. The photos just don’t do it justice. The ceilings are high and the seating ample.
- Location. Right across street from a Max line. We took this to Moda center to catch a Blazers NBA game, about 20 mins and no transfers. So much food at your fingertips.
- Keypad locks meant group members could come and go as they please and no keys to track.
- Parking. I was thrilled to know there was actually a parking spot for each unit.
- Susanne was gracious to accept a headcount change a few days before the weekend, and thus save us a few hundred dollars. She didn’t have to, but she did, and that was awesome of her.
Things which could be improved:
- Parking. Since I rented a minivan for the group, I was anxious about getting a ticket since the van’s butt stuck out of the small designated spot. (Not to mention confusion on my part about where the designated spot was located. Susanne was responsive and reasonable about correcting my incorrect park job :)
- I would have liked to see a small speaker system for people to plug in phones for music. We made do with audio TV channels.
- The weather (joking!). We didn’t get much use from the cool outside areas due to typical January Portland weather. What can ya do.
Tip for other big groups
- Without being able to see both units initially, I established 5th Ave Townhouse as the group “home base” (group congregation for dinner/hang out). In retrospect, I would have made The Downtowner “home base” because of a more pleasant living room / kitchen layout, nicer fixtures and nicer furniture. Not a big deal because they are both great areas.