My Airbnb Was a Disaster and I Got Every Penny Back

It was supposed to be a dream anniversary trip in Paris. Instead it became a nightmare that ended with a full refund of $2,100.

The listing promised a charming Parisian apartment in Le Marais with WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, and a washing machine. $210 per night for ten nights.

We arrived at midnight. The building entrance was covered in graffiti. The elevator was broken. We carried bags up five flights. The apartment door had a padlock instead of a proper lock. The kitchen had two plates and a single pot. The washing machine was a bucket with a plunger.

The WiFi did not work. The host did not respond. The heating was broken and it was December in Paris.

I contacted Airbnb at 1 AM with 47 photos and a video tour. The agent escalated to Trust and Safety.

The next morning Airbnb offered to relocate us. The alternative was in a different neighborhood and cost $100 more per night. I declined and asked for a full refund plus compensation.

Airbnb approved the full refund within 24 hours plus a $200 travel credit. Why so fast? Three reasons: I contacted them immediately, I had overwhelming evidence, and the listing was dangerous (padlock instead of a lock). Safety issues get fast-tracked.

If you are in an unsafe situation, use the word "safety" explicitly. It triggers a different, faster response process.