Have you used Airbnb.com? If not you should!

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 09:16:09 -0400

https://www.airbnb.com/

I have used this site this past June. For 4 cities in Italy. You basically book someone's apartment for a few days or so instead of a Hotel. Its cheaper, nicer and the owners tend to act as super awesome tour guides. SO full of information. I used it for Venice, Florence, Rome, Pompeii. Check it out!

Vacation Rentals, Homes, Apartments & Rooms for Rent - Airbnb

Rent unique accommodations from local hosts in 190+ countries. Feel at home anywhere you go in the world with Airbnb.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 7 at 2015 9:20 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 09:20:30 -0400

I'm a fan of most of these "sharing economy" services, but haven't used this one yet.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Sep 7 at 2015 11:51 AM

PO2 Peter Klein — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 11:51:48 -0400

My had a not-so-good experience with airbnb in Portland, Oregon. He made a reservation with payment by credit card. When he arrived, the owner tried to shake him down to pay in cash and added a $100.00 cash deposit. My son declined, found a friend's couch and contacted airbnb corporate. They gave him a full refund.
Be careful of the host. Corporate seems to be on the up-and-up.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Sep 7 at 2015 3:30 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 15:30:48 -0400

I've enjoyed my first experience so far. One thing to be wary of: I had an owner ask me to rebook & switch sites to vrbo after I made my reservation. Claimed airbnb was asking for too much tax information...I refused to do this because I don't enjoy the booking process and airbnb has protections in place for both the owners and renters. Expect the stay to be charged immediately on your card when you book...airbnb keeps this payment until the stay, then the owner receives it. I like how the site is self-policing as renters can rate owners and vice versa.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 8 at 2015 7:51 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 07:51:45 -0400

I have a family now and although I like the airbnd concept, my wife does not show the same interest. I have tried to convince her but she cannot digest the idea of staying in someone's property.