In downtown Santa Barbara, this studio apartment is a pared-back crash pad in a vibrant location. It's a short walk from alfresco eateries, wine bars, and cool cafes – not to mention a ten-minute drive away from the beach. There isn't much in the way of a kitchen, so we suggest taking advantage of the area and dining out instead. You'll also have access to the shared patio where you can unwind with an alfresco cocktail. For a couple or a solo traveller, we think it's a fuss-free find.

Home truths:
*This is one of five apartments in the building. You'll share access to the patio with the other guests.
*Your host operates several homes here, so the exact view, layout and furnishings might differ slightly from the photos. However, the overall quality should remain the same.
*A pack-and-play portable cot and a high chair can be provided upon request.
*There isn't a stove or proper oven here – just a toaster, coffee machine, mini-fridge, and microwave. You may miss having kitchen amenities such as a freezer. However, you'll find plenty of restaurants in the local area.
*There may be surveillance cameras in the common areas for security purposes. There's also a decibel monitoring device to observe noise levels, though it will not listen or record.
*Some guests found the pillows to be uncomfortable.