nanabee

I just read in my travel section of todays paper about two Websites called
iStopover.com and Airbnb.com.

They allow you to occupy a spare room in an apartment/house or share the house/apt with up to a specified number of people.

Has anyone here on Fodor's used these services and what are your experiences? Good or Bad?

RainyDay09

I just booked an apartment through Airbnb. I have not stayed there yet, but so far I have had a positive experience. the owner gets excellent reviews by many different people on Airbnb and she already emailed me useful information about the city and the place.

janisj

These two threads by nukesafe have very long discussions about airbnb. people seem to be either acolytes/love it, or have had bad experiences. It does have very little in the way of guarantees/safeguards. Sort of craislist-ish - but like I said,some LOVE it (and get very upset when someone voices skepticism)

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...nd-lodging.cfm

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-amsterdam.cfm

janisj

OOPS -- I meant to write >>It seems to have very little in the way of guarantees/safeguards.

nanabee

Thanks janisj - this is very helpful.

DebitNM

I also am booked to stay in an apt via airbnb in October for a trip to San Francisco. I was extremely fortunate to have a Fodorite actually go and meet the owner and check the apartment out for us. It got glowing marks on all accounts.

nanabee

Wow, that is very nice Debit! I wouldn't mind doing that for interested parties - if it was within a reasonable driving distance.

DebitNM

I am always willing to check out hotels etc when folks have concerns about places near me.