Praise for Airbnb

In his letter titled “Apartment Rental Scam” (Sept. ’14, pg. 25), in which a subscriber described trying to rent an apartment abroad for his wife and himself, he said he ended up going with Airbnb (www.airbnb.com). I would like to suggest that when you’re looking for a room, apartment or house, Airbnb should be your first stop.

I’ve used this service for several years for rentals both in the US and abroad. My wife and I have rented a flat in London, a studio in Paris and a great apartment in the heart of Berlin.

As was mentioned in the letter, an apartment means more space and a chance to feel like a native, often at a price lower than that for a hotel room.

And Airbnb takes care of problems similar to the fraud problem the letter writer had. First, the photos you see on the site have been checked out by them. Next, there’s no need for wire transfers; Airbnb takes care of that too. Finally, the “host” does not get his or her money until after you arrive. 

We’ve never had a problem renting; still, it’s nice to know that, with Airbnb, you have the option of canceling after you’ve seen the property.

Of course, these services cost a few dollars, but, in my view, it is well worth the cost.

DAVID ANDERSON

Meadville, PA