I write reviews because its imperative for many travelers with families to know the details. It really deserves a 5 STAR, but our challenges must be mentioned. The review has three points. 1) absolutely amazing stay 2nd) anxiety provoking and 3) suggestions with love.
1) ABSOLUTELY AMAZING STAY:
The apartment is absolutely beautiful! It looks exactly like the photos. Extremely clean and tidy. I selected the apartment for the bathroom. It has all of the amenities of your home. e.g. cable, internet, flat screen tv in each room including the living room; pots to cook, utensils for cooking; plates etc.. The two bedrooms with fresh smelling linen was great. A little secret, the bedroom on the left has an extremely comfortable mattress. Nonetheless, take the time and walk around the neighborhood, visit the fresh fruits & veggie markets, only about 5 to 6 blocks from the apartment. A must do!
2) ANXIETY PROVOKING:
We drove from Chicago, Illinois. It takes about 12 to 13 hours with no stopping. If you stop for gas and food give or take add on additional hours. Our host was notified that we would possibly arrive around 5 or 6 pm. To no avail it was closer to 9 pm :( We downloaded the HomeAway app. The app displays the pertinent information along with the contact number of our host/owner. Two numbers appeared. They were both google numbers. When we called both of them, we received a respond..."wrong number, or no one with that name lives here"! So, of course we panic. I immediately contacted the VRBO customer service desk for further assistance. During that time the owner responded through the app to ask our eta.We had to ask for the direct number to communicate. We finally connected. THE PARKING IS HORRENDOUS! Lots of small driveways that take up a great deal of space. We parked 2 blocks away. The shower is warm not very hot. The apartment was cold. Unable to turn up the heat. The heat was on a timer.
SUGGESTIONS WITH LOVE: a) As a business owner, I'm aware of excessive contacts or people having your personal number. Obtain a business cell phone for easy contacts in the future. b) I'm a night reader, place lamps on the night stands in each bedroom. c) Purchase a nice fold-away dining table with chairs for family meals. The counter space is okay for prepping meals, but not ideal for family gathering. d) More communication is needed on the app in future. Confusion on contact person Reggie or Vinette?