Hi,
I have a hotel reservation already (5/24-5/29), but after reading some threads in the forum, it seems like a lot of people enjoyed renting apartments better. I've been on some websites (VRBO.com, vacationinparis.com). How about Craigslst? Is it safe...anyone have good/bad experience? What questions should I ask if I go that route to protect myself?
Posted by
Dijon, Burgundy, France
120 posts
I'm not even sure that VRBO is safer. As an owner who advertises there I think that anybody who pays for the subscription is entitled to put an ad. They don't ask for guarantees. Another site like VRWD says "All vacation rentals are verified by VRWD editors and reviewed by previous guests." Mine has never been verified by anyone from VRW. They don't even ask for an electricity bill with an address.
I've been asked only once by an Australian website a few years ago.
Look for references on travel boards like tripadvisor, ask the tourist office to send you a list, check official websites or rental agencies. This is why I had my apartment rated by Dijon Prefecture, some people feel more secure to book. The word of mouth is SO important too! Good luck!
Posted by
OP
Atlanta
47 posts
Yes, I figured it would be hard to trust Craigslist. But people have been very happy about VRBO.com and they seem to let anyone post their apartments there. So I didn't think it would be any safer. Anyway, I think I'll stick to the hotel. Appreciate your help, though!
Posted by
gaston, oregon, usa
842 posts
RK, we always rent an apt when we will be in one spot for 4 days or more. We have used VRBO and Homelidays.com for many places, and have been very satisfied. We alwsys look for lots of good references before we book, and if the place accepts a credit card, you never have to worry. But many accept cash only, and when we rent one of those, we just make sure that our travel insurance is paid up. It costs pennies but can sure save you some $$$$$$ if something goes wrong on that special trip that you had planned.
We feel much safer renting from an organization like VRBO or Homelidays, rather than from some ad in CList.
Posted by
OP
Atlanta
47 posts
So, does PayPal protect you like a credit card? One person on Clist said she sends a contract and you can pay via PayPal. But I'm not sure I'm protected with that....am I? Thanks for the homelidays.com suggestions, I will try that as well.
Posted by
Atlanta, Ga, USA
2023 posts
We use vacationinparis.com for apt rentals. The company is located in New Jersey and you pay in USD. They know all the apts well and can answer questions, give advice,etc. Key is mailed to you.
Posted by
Pantego, NC, USA
1014 posts
I rented, and will rent again, an apt. I found on Craigslist. HOWEVER, I had the advantage of a friend in Paris who went to the address, spoke to the owner and saw the apt. before I got there. The apt. was legit and was wonderful. BUT, you must check out craigslist before you send money. There are a lot of scammers there as well as on gumtree.com. You need to find a way to check out the apt before cash is paid. Actually, I would tell the person who lists on Cragslist or Gumtree that I will pay you when I get there. If they do not agree, go to the next one. You should tell them that there are a lot of scammers out there, and you do not want to be hung out to dry. Do not send them any information that can be used to get credit card information, etc. You can ask paypal if you are covered, and then you will have the answer in writing, in case you need it.