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While I have not paid as much or stayed in anywhere as glamorous as these Top 40, I paid for my first Airbnb.com stay at the end of last month. Fear mongers among you, I wasn't assulted or abducted. I stayed in Baltimore at the recently remodeled home of a lovely lady called Deb, twice.

Not only did Deb arrange for her friend, Jerry, to collect me from where I was staying, 20 mins away. She also arranged for Jerry to drop me the next morning at the bus station in good time for me to catch my bus to NYC. Lucky for me Jerry, who is retired, loves driving.

On arriving at Deb's home, I found her detailed welcome instructions, including how to get to the Downtown area, 15mins by bus. She was also kind enough to pick me up in the evening, then we got to know each other, in a local bar, over rum and coke. As for the bed I slept in, it was so lush, I didn't want to leave.

As well as being the 'hostess with the mostess', Deb is a savvy bargain hunter, she should have her own TV show. She has tastefully decorated her home with things from Craig's List and House 'garage' sales. Some of her 'finds' left me speechless, and you know that is not easily done.

I was Deb's first Airbnb.com guest, and I think I made a good impression. She sure made a good impression on me, so much so that I stayed there again on my return to Baltimore. And I hope to stay there again.

You can find Deb's place at http://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41532?price=40

baltimore. maryland

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