Thumbnail of user ala1231

Al A.

Contributor Level

Total Points
85

1 Review by Al

  • Airbnb

8/6/15

Airbnb in my opinion and experience is a HORRIBLE choice. I made the mistake of booking with them. My experience: their customer service is arrogant and they are in my example untrustworthy. I was planning a South American vacation in June and heard about Airbnb. I went to their website and thought it was a cool concept. I could save money and try something new. What a mistake. After booking and paying for my room some 35 days in advance I thought everything was set and cool. At the last minute, practically on the eve of my departure, they suspended my account and canceled my paid reservation without explanation. I only found out through a private message from my chosen host as I was packing to leave. When I tried to correct Airbnb over the matter they demanded a copy of my passport, access to my Face Book and Google accounts and reconfirmation of my cell number. I didn't want a last-minute derailment of my plans so I unwisely complied. After all that, they wrote that my already 30 days ahead paid reservation was illegitimate and that my account was suspended. Attempts to receive a reason were ignored and I was repeatedly told that they didn't have to give an explanation and were not liable in any way for the mess. Subsequently I had to revoke their permissions, change passwords and accept their corporate hubris / insulting customer service as the "final word". I am now very committed to telling the world of my wretched experience in hopes of sparing other trusting travelers a similar big steaming pile or Airbnb treatment. The good news is, my money was refunded (they had no choice really), I didn't add to their profits and my host of choice understood and received me with a nice welcome. Beware of Airbnb. They might jerk you around as you're in departure as well. I am glad to say that already 4 other friends have now dumped their plans to use Airbnb and I will continue on a righteous mission to share my experience honestly as a cautionary tale regarding Airbnb. The exponential result should make it worthwhile. Choose wisely and seek accommodations elsewhere.

Al Has Earned 5 Votes

Al A.'s review of Airbnb earned 5 Very Helpful votes

Al hasn’t received any thanks yous.

Al doesn’t have any fans yet.

Al isn’t following anybody yet.

Empty.

Similar Reviewers on Sitejabber

Thumbnail of user juliem3060
julie m. reviewed Airbnb
3/23/24

Airbnb does not vet their properties / owners. We cancelled a reservation after discovering that...

Thumbnail of user davej845
Dave J. reviewed Airbnb
3/18/24

We use Airbnb to reserve a hotel room. Due to border state closure at the time, we had to cancel...