Before you begin, now is a good time to grab a glass of wine and get comfortable. This post details my first time using Airbnb, and I have plenty to say, both good and bad.
Paris, it has been said, is not a cheap city to visit. I happen to disagree with that statement. As long as you keep the big-ticket sightseeing and fancy dinners to a minimum, Paris can actually be very affordable. A picnic at the Tuileries, a stroll through Notre Dame, sandwiches eaten along the Seine…
One unavoidable expense, however, is accommodation. You didn’t travel all this way just to turn back around 12 hours later! You need a place to sleep, and in a city like Paris, there seems to be a fine line between affordable and just plain cheap.
I spent months before our trip sifting through dozens of hotels and apartments, trying to find a place that suited all our needs.
Our Wishlist:
- A central location, preferably close to the river and metro line
- A safe location, with plenty of good reviews to back it up
- Close proximity to dining and shopping
- A balcony, or at least a view over the city
- Something stylish and private, to suit the tone of our romantic getaway
And of course, I wanted it all for around $100 per night. Riiiight. Someone’s been watching House Hunters again.
It was difficult if not downright impossible to find a hotel that ticked all the boxes on our wishlist. Ideally, I wanted a place in the first, second, third or fourth arrondissements – and that kind of real estate generally doesn’t come cheap.
Ultimately, we turned to Airbnb, the popular service that makes renting a holiday home easier than ever! Airbnb was perfect for us. By renting an apartment, we could get away from the overpriced tourist hotels and see how the locals really live. It’s no secret that I long to be a Parisian, so I jumped at the chance to blend in with the chicest women in the world. From a practical standpoint, we could do laundry (a plus in our two week trip!), buy and store groceries, and even cook if we wanted to. Choosing an apartment over a hotel meant we could practice our French, walk to the popular sights, and best of all, save a load of cash for croissants and champagne!
I’m here now to share with you our adopted home in Paris, and our thoughts as first-time Airbnb users.
The Apartment
We chose a cute little third floor walkup in the trendy Marais neighborhood, just a short walk away from the Hotel de Ville and Notre Dame Cathedral. It did not have a balcony, nor the sweeping views over Paris that I wanted, but it looked spacious, warm and inviting. I loved the exposed beams, the collection of art, and the ample space for sleeping and storage.
First Impressions
The apartment was easy enough to locate, and we were delighted by the entryway, what looked to be an old storefront in a trendy shopping district.
The heavy red door featured a keypad for entry, and we were dismayed to find that the entry code we’d been given by our host did not work! Our contact was late, and when I texted him, there was no response. We stood out in the narrow street, apologizing for our bulky luggage and becoming more irritated as well-dressed locals gave us a wide berth. I regretted choosing the “local experience,” and wished we had just gone with a regular old hotel. By now, we would be in our room, hopefully with a balcony, savoring a glass of champagne and toasting to our first night in Paris.
Finally, our host texted us the correct door code, which was one digit off from the code we’d been given. I can only assume it was updated after we took a screen shot of the apartment directions and entry code. We punched in the code, breathing a sigh of relief when the heavy door finally opened up, and were inside the entry for less than a minute when our contact showed up, smiling and apologetic for his lateness.
The guy’s only human, but in the moment, embarrassed and frustrated by the miscommunication and the long wait in the street, we weren’t very amused. We followed our sprightly new friend up the stairs, struggling under the weight of our suitcases. I knew we had booked a place with no elevator, and actually looked forward to the authentic experience, but these uneven, sloping, curving stairs were a bit of a challenge. If I had the chance to do it again, I would have stuck with one small backpack or lightweight carry-on bag for each of us.
The apartment itself was smaller than I expected, but just as charming as I had hoped it would be. Just inside the door was a cooking and utility area, complete with hot plate and microwave, as well as separate rooms for the toilet and the sink/shower combination.
Tall windows lined the right side of the apartment, their frames chipped and worn. I rather liked this little detail. At best, it was a romanticized nod to old Paris, and this neighborhood’s evident roots in Medieval times. At worst, it was a symptom of city living in a 17th century building. Small space, narrow stairs, chipped paint…it’s simply something to be expected and even embraced while in Europe.
Pulling aside the heavy floor-to-ceiling curtains, we looked out into the courtyard. The building across from our window was under major construction, and building parts littered the courtyard floor. Not much of a view, but at least we would get a lot of natural light during the day.
Our host gave us a very brief tour and departed, leaving us to explore the living and sleeping areas. We opened all the windows, welcoming the cross breeze after hauling our luggage up all those stairs, and flopped onto the bed to relax for a moment.
The bedroom area was, without a doubt, my favorite part of the studio. Done up in warm neutrals and accentuated with splashes of color from the bold art and furniture around the room, the room was sure to be an eclectic and cozy retreat from our days spent pounding the sidewalk.
Now for the not so good…
The next morning, we awoke to the sound of a jackhammer right outside our window. Somehow, it had not occurred to me when we saw the construction site outside our window the previous day that there might be…you know, actual ongoing construction throughout our trip. We had been given no warning beforehand. No mention of the construction from the host, from his listing, or from any of the glowing Airbnb reviews.
And despite some newer reviews (posted after our stay) mentioning the noise, there is still no mention of it in the property listing itself. That really leaves a bad taste in my mouth, and in the moment, it was one of the biggest cons of our stay. There was no regulation by Airbnb, and a very slim chance we would be able to get any kind of a refund and move along.
Oh, did I mention the hot water ran out halfway through my morning shower? Yep. Truth be told, we could have lived with all the noise. We would just take a quick shower and spend the day out sightseeing, and as long as we stayed away from 8 AM to 5 PM, we would be fine. We were more upset by the fact that our host did not disclose the construction (because we certainly would not have booked a stay here, had we known) than by the noise itself.
But then the hot water went out, and our plan of getting an early start on the day went with it.
We wasted an hour waiting for the hot water to return – it did not – and checking to see if we were eligible for a refund. You see, we could not just “check out” and demand a refund, like we would in a hotel. Nope, at Airbnb it’s up the host to decide what kind of refund policy to set in place, and ours was “strict.” Now that we’d already been duped checked in, we were no longer eligible for any percentage of our money back. Surely this construction and the fact that we couldn’t even shower counted as “extenuating circumstances,” and could be appealed with Airbnb.
Yep, it got to the point, with all the noise and frustration, that we started to pack everything up and look into alternate accommodations.
Luckily, we decided to give it one more day. Dan took his cold shower, attributing the hot water shortage as yet another symptom of living in an old building in an old city, and we set off, agreed that we would find a hotel if the water was still out upon our return. Truthfully, we just weren’t ready to drag our luggage up and down all those steps at the metro again, and then deal with the headache of fighting for a refund from Airbnb.
A day in the city did us a lot of good, and by the time we returned to our now-silent apartment, the hot water had miraculously returned as well. By showering at night instead of in the morning (the unfortunate reason behind my perpetual ponytail throughout our visit), and getting a head start on the construction schedule, we were able to make the most of a crappy situation, and even wound up liking the apartment, the longer we stayed there.
After all, it was a great location. And while our host absolutely should have disclosed the work next door, we sympathized that it’s not as though he asked for the work to be done. He was just as much a victim as we were…right? Well, I don’t know about that, but he was nothing but cordial in our text and email interactions. I like to think that, before the construction started, this was a prime location in the Marais. And I’m sure it will be once again, just as soon as the construction mess is over.
The Pros
As I mentioned before, location was the most important factor in choosing a base for our stay. I wanted something safe, convenient, and preferably in a neighborhood that had that vintage Parisian feel. Our apartment in Le Marais checked off all those boxes, offering plenty of dining, shopping, transportation and entertainment options on our street and across the surrounding areas.
We were five minutes from le Centre Pompidou, ten minutes from Notre Dame, and had several metro stations nearby to help us get to further-flung destinations like Versailles. One of our favorite Parisian dinners was literally a two-minute walk down the street, while breakfast involved choosing one of many patisseries within five minutes of our adopted home. When it came time to leave, we walked ten minutes to an RER station and caught a train that went directly to Aéroport Charles de Gaulle, making this area super convenient for short and long trips alike.
The apartment was a perfectly-located home base for our adventures. It was ideal for stowing and retrieving items throughout the day (think jackets for Notre Dame and champagne for the Eiffel Tower), and was super convenient to return to after dinners out in the neighborhood.
Construction and water issues aside, the apartment itself was spacious, beautiful and clean. The artsy vibe was inviting and comforting, and gave the place a lot more personality than what we would have found in our budget hotels. The bed was comfortable, especially after long days out and about, and the built in storage gave us plenty of room to unpack and settle in, to the effect that the apartment really started to feel like home.
Our hosts left a nice little book full of tips, helpful phone numbers, and fun things to do in the area, and even left an entire drawer full of spare adapters and chargers to make things a little bit easier. When I saw that little detail, I honestly started to wonder if I was just being dramatic about the whole construction thing. Really, our place wasn’t so bad.
And of course, I can’t forget the price! Believe it or not, we booked this place at just over 100 Euros per night, a relative steal when you think about it. For our money, we got an entire studio apartment, the freedom to come and go as we pleased (no concierges to raise their eyebrows at you here), and the use of conveniences like a fridge, washer, and plenty of clean dishes to eat well at home. Before finding this place on Airbnb, we were looking at hotels costing $160 or more, with half the amenities, and very basic rooms. For those on a budget, I will maintain that Airbnb is an excellent option. Just do your research and read all those reviews!
Would I use Airbnb again?
Yes! I loved having our own “home” in Paris, even for a few days, and I look forward to adopting homes in cities across the world in my future travels. I definitely recommend reading the reviews beforehand, and becoming familiar with the refund policies and processes of prospective hosts before booking. I still prefer the comfort of a nice hotel stay, and the assurance that there will be someone at the front desk to help with any problems. In this case, we could have been moved to a room that does have hot water, or received a refund and gone somewhere else for the rest of our trip. That was not really an option with Airbnb, and it’s something that I will always bear in mind when booking in the future. I would not use the site for anything important, like a honeymoon stay in a luxury home, just in case things went south. But for quick trips, budget trips, or cheap weekends away with friends, I think this is an excellent option.
If the construction and hot water issues were resolved, I would even stay at this exact property again. Overall, it made for a nice comfortable stay, and a perfect location from which to dip our toes into the Parisian lifestyle.
LeeLee says
How fun! And, such a great location.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
The location was probably my favorite aspect of the rental! There was so much to do just outside our door, making it a great spot for first-timers and more relaxed return visitors alike.
Future Expat says
Airb&bs and their quirks always have their little quirks, even the best ones! But I don’t know that I’ll ever go back to a normal hotel, it’s an experience! I’m glad you enjoyed your trip!
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
I loved feeling like I actually lived in Paris, that was a definite pro for me! I’m not done using the site by any means, but I haven’t quit my hotels yet either! 😀 Thanks for commenting!
Sarah Stierch says
I still haven’t stayed in an AirBNB. I’m such a stickler for detail, and it’s reasons like this – from buying laundry detergent to construction, etc.. thanks for sharing your experience.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
I’m glad I’m not alone! Airbnb and apartment rentals in general are so popular now, I was a little nervous to admit that it wasn’t as amazing as everyone says.
Mike C says
I’ve never used AirBnB before and it was interesting to read your experiences, both positive and negative. For $100 a night, I think you found a bargain, especially considering the location (which sounds perfect).
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
Thank you Mike, I have to agree with you there! I would stay in the area again in a heartbeat.
Aimee says
We love airbnb, I love seeing how other people live. We haven’t used it in a while however, so need to get on that asap 😊 The apartment looks beautiful – love all the quirky art on the walls!
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
Thanks for commenting Aimee! It was a charming little spot for sure!
Ada says
Wow that’s a detail review 🙂 too bad about the construction but hey after all you found not too expensive place to stay in Paris 🙂
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
Yeah, it was definitely an affordable stay, though part of me feels that we got what we paid for. Maybe I’ll up my budget next time. 😀
T. M. Brown says
My goodness! What an experience! I appreciated the detailed list of pros and cons of AirBNB and the location you selected to stay. All in all, definitely sounds like you had an amazing trip and thank you so much for sharing it with us!
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
I’m glad you liked it! It’s a lengthy post to be sure, hah. I wasn’t sure what to make of our stay!
CrazyJoyfulMama says
Paris is a bucket list place for me. I always wanted to go with my Grandma, who came over from France, but never got the chance.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
That would have been a trip for the books! It’s sad that you won’t have the chance to travel there together, but when you do visit Paris, at least you can think back fondly on all the things you did do together. <3
gypsybutterflyca says
My husband & I have never availed ourselves of an airbnb. I do agree with the, wanting to see how the locals live. Whenever we’re able to travel, that’s part of what we’d like to experience. If we did try an airbnb, it would probably be one within a couple of hours of us. If we didn’t like it, we’re close to home. Though, I don’t know what the refund policy is. I’ll have to go through your post again to see if that is mentioned. We do like room service quite a bit. One reason we’d prefer to stay in a hotel.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
That is a great idea! Then you’re never left fully in the cold. The refund policy varies by host, so some offer full refunds, some partial refunds, and some no refund at all after a certain date. I definitely recommend reading the refund policies closely before booking an Airbnb of your own. I think I’m also more of a hotel girl, myself.
gypsybutterflyca says
I would check the policies to understand what we’re getting into. It’s important to know it will benefit all involved. Due to health issues, we haven’t been able to do much except for more locally. We both enjoy history, culture, food, to name a few interests & would want to immerse ourselves in those & more wherever we would visit.
Barbara says
Oh my! I haven’t stayed at an AirBNB, but now I know what kinds of issues to ask about beforehand. It sounds like you still enjoyed Paris with all the pros and cons. 🙂
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
Definitely! It all worked out in the end.
Juliette | Snorkels to Snow says
Airbnb is such a mixed bag! Our first experience was ridiculously brilliant though, we were most impressed. I guess you have to make sure you read all the other reviews as part of your research and if there’s a recurring concern then it’s a strong hint something isn’t quite right.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
That’s the impression I am getting as well. This one had excellent reviews, so it makes me a little leery about booking in the future. I’ll give it a shot though, since I have seen so many incredible listings to balance out the crappy ones.
sarahheiman says
Great post! I’ve used Airbnb a few times and only once did we have a bad experience. That was for a place we booked that had no reviews and it seemed to be the host’s first time using the website. When we arrived we noticed that there were video cameras inside the house. Seriously!! The cameras had not been disclosed in the listing, and had they been mentioned we certainly wouldn’t have booked the place. When my husband texted the host about it he said they weren’t on (though it appeared to us that they were) and he offered to have someone come in the next day and remove them. We thought it was too shady so we left and got a refund. We definitely learned not to book an Airbnb that has zero reviews.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
What!?!? Gross, even if they were off, why were they there in the first place? That is horrifying. I would have left too. Hopefully Airbnb took down the listing after your complaint.
McCool Travel says
I LOVE vacation rentals and have had great success with Airbnb properties. Renting someone’s apartment, condo, or house almost always in a better value than hotels. More space, better amenities, and often a better location. Add in the use of a washer and dryer, it helps us pack light and bring only carryon bags.
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
I agree with you there! In most cases, I think it would be a much better value in terms of space and amenities. We loved having a washer in ours. It really helped to make our wardrobes go further!
Lewi Blake says
air bnb is a tricky one. You can have good and bad experiences but in the end, like you said, its nice to have a home away from home!
Adventuring The Great Wide Somewhere says
It was nice to pretend that we lived in Paris, that’s for sure!