This was our first and last booking with Airbnb. Having booked an apartment in Spain for two weeks, the booking was accepted and we paid the total amount. I was then informed by the “host” that she was now talking to another party who was interested in the same dates plus additional days. She cancelled my booking and I was informed by Airbnb that would I be refunded within five working days. This is not good enough and totally lacks any aspect of professionalism. Once a host accepts a booking, it should a commitment, a contract. Otherwise they should be banned from any further dealings with Airbnb. Secondly, the refund into one’s account should be immediate. Not everyone can afford to wait for the refund whilst financing an alternative accommodation.
Welcome to international banking! It’s banks that take forever to process transfers – not much Airbnb or any large company can do……
You know that the waiting time for refunds depends on your bank or credit card company, not Airbnb? This applies to any refund, and is a good case for using a credit card to pay, and not using a depit card that is linked directly to your bank account.
Host that cancel are penalised, see https://www.airbnb.no/help/article/990/i-m-a-host–what-penalties-apply-if-i-need-to-cancel-a-reservation