About Airbnb point 3.
Always check if there are airbnb apartments in the same building and block and how many they are.
The response says if you are contributing to make “Less touristy and more authentic” only an illusion.

You raise an important ethical question. Loose regulations can make things go amok!

Thanks for sharing your experiences and such thoughtful comments.

Thanks for your comments and bringing a “big picture” to this discussion.

My current approach is that I generally prefer a full house or apartment if I’m staying more that a couple nights. I am not a breakfast person anyway and free breakfast doesn’t interest me. I just want coffee! I have learned to arrive and immediately reconnoiter the place to see what I need. I then immediately go buy coffee, coffee filters or other stuff that is lacking. This is easier in the US but not that hard abroad either. The cost savings make these small purchases well worth it. I have bought cutting boards, wine glasses and even towels. I leave them behind or throw them out.

Read the fine print. In some locations vacation house rentals are truly bare bones. This is typical in beach areas in parts of the northeast and in Florida, especially panhandle. I mean, you have to bring sheets, towels. Beware of the concept of “turn-day”, as all these areas are 1 week minimum and change over that same day each week. Literally nothing is supplied in these other than kitchen utensils. I have also learned that kitchen knives are uniformly awful, so if we are a group and are staying a week or more, I actually pack (in checked luggage) my good chef’s knife since I like to cook.

The sense of being a “pretend local” for a week or two is great, and I remember getting a big kick out of an Italian asking ME for directions at our apartment near the Campo di Fiori. Priceless!

Funny you should mention housekeeping. My husband and I were just talking about hotel turndown service and whether it is more of a nuisance. I’m a big towel user so I love the extra service!

Thanks for sharing with your fellow boomers, Johanna!

I find it great to make a change and see different neighborhoods as well although it can be a hassle to pack up and move.

Yes, when you need lots of space and want a kitchen, an Airbnb is a great solution!

You got it! Has to be the right circumstances!

Yes, agree with what you say, too! Also very important is the owner leaving instructions and information about both the property and the neighborhood.