but not to those Airbnbs. I've had great luck with my rentals **except for one last minute one that I only had for a night. It was a dump and VRBO wouldn't reimburse me**

I've rented multiple times in France and London, as well as Milan. They have been like stepping into my own fairytale! All wonderful. I read all the reviews, try to only book with Super Hosts.
I look at the flights of stairs, usually want a washer (helps me be able to travel with just a carry on no matter how long I'm gone.)

Paris now has a limit on how many days a person can rent their listing. I've seen more people having their apartment canceled last minute because they book in advance and, by the time the date rolls around,the host has run out of days.

I have a place rented in Paris next April, beginning of May. Even if everyday was rented before my dates, I should be ok. I usually stay at hotels if I'm going to be in a place 3 or fewer days. That's the case with Barcelona, Granada and Madrid this coming trip. Only day trips to Cordoba and Toledo. The first from Seville, the second from Madrid.