Respect goes to host Karen for her thorough instructions prior to arrival, her list of contacts and local information; she was very responsive to our inquiries, even though she was not on site. The interior images accurately reflect the artistic charm of an Arts District home. No disrespect intended, however we thought we had arrived at the wrong address? The exterior landscaping was overgrown, unattended, and dying; the entrance to the house had a failing retaining wall; the entry door knobs were loose, and we feared we’d pull them off while turning keys. The impression on arrival did not feel like the charm of the VRBO we’d booked.
Our stay was during a 100+ heat wave; certainly not a common occurrence in Portland, and we had to keep the AC on for most of the 3 days of high heat. The two window mounted air conditioners did keep the LR and BR comfortable; and they are noisy. The kitchen had a fan in the window + we used the standing fan from the LR as well, to keep air circulating throughout; the AC was not strong enough to service the kitchen, hallway, and bathroom too, during these abnormally hot days. We were able to maintain a bearable temperature. Lighting was not sufficient for those who like to read in bed or in the living room at night and the general feel of the space and furniture are not for kickback relaxation (one of our main objectives during our vacay). Kitchen chairs are taped with black utility tape where seams split, and the tape stuck to our legs and clothing.
Karen left detailed requests of tenants, which we both agreed we're respectable requests; though we felt the carpet and furniture could use a good cleaning; and upon arrival, found a kitchen towel and a rag on the kitchen floor, presumably an oversight on behalf of the cleaning crew. All in all we made the best of what initially was a disappointing landing at “basecamp”; because we are best friends and we choose to see the good in all things. Karen’s unit was in a pleasant location, the bed was comfortable, the kitchen was clean and well stocked; and if we had stayed longer, it’s nice that there is a washer and dryer. We found many lovely places to drive to meal locally , we loved the hosts personal artwork that decorated the walls, and we appreciated the proximity to downtown Portland and the Columbia River and take advantage of the heat to bask in the cool mists of the waterfall trails, and take in the breathtaking views of the Gorge. The location was great!