I feel guilty that we did, but it really didn't occur to me to check the news before we booked it (this was 2013).

I guess the Airbnbs that are a room in someone's house are different, in that they're not keeping tenants from renting an apartment. But then I don't know how I'd feel about renting a room in someone's house. That seems weird.

I know of people who rent out their own home during tourist season, so not all situations are displacing renters. The big urban areas are the ones where I'm a little more wary of that.

Definitely.

We stayed at an Airbnb in SF last March and it was definitely the owners place that they were renting out. Not sure where they went while we were there.

Or does anyone know anything about the Villa Florence Hotel?

Is that where Lee had her birthday one time? The bar and restaurant look familiar.

My parents have stayed at The Royal Pacific Motor Inn [link] a few times and really liked it. It's a mid-century motel, no bells & whistles, but it's on the Chinatown side of Broadway (read: no strip clubs), so it's quiet, and the rooms are immaculate & well cared-for. Also, free parking.

I would definitely avoid AirBNB, if you can.

Suzuki, I sent. Lunch on Monday sounds good!

Thanks, Juliana. That looks like a winner.

DCistas, it is the time of year when I come to your city and spend most of my time teaching undergraduates about classical studies. I am in town July 13-20, and currently free the evenings of the 15th, 16th, and 18th, and all day on Sunday the 17th. Take it to email (in profile)?

I am in town July 13-20, and currently free the evenings of the 15th, 16th, and 18th, and all day on Sunday the 17th. Take it to email

Insent!!