Annie M.

We tried airbnb for the first time. We secured a Montreal downtown loft. It advertised air conditioning. When we arrived, it was +33 degrees C outside. The inside of the loft was just as hot without air circulation. The window air conditioner was blowing air, but clearly not enough to cool the place (either broken or simply not big enough unit). We called owner. Owner said it was too late to call technician. He came over with a fan. We spent one of the worst nights ever in an accommodation. We paid $235 for one night of hell. We could have gotten a decent hotel with air conditioning for this price. The issues I have with airbnb is that you have no recourse if there is an issue. If this had happened in a hotel, they would have put us up somewhere where it was cool, or they would have refunded us for our experience. Other issues is the ridiculous cleaning fee they charge. Isn't cleaning the cost of doing business? If you need to cover this cost, then build into the price. We left the place spotless except for 2 used towels and bedding. It was stated on the site that renters remove all of their garbage before they leave, wash their dishes, and if shoes are worn in the apartment, renters will be charged additionally. We were appalled when the property owner walked into the space with his shoes on. With a hotel chain, you can usually know what you are getting. If there is a problem, they will do something about it to keep your business. With airbnb, your only recourse is a bad review. We wrote to airbnb, and so far, we have received nothing back.