I am trying to book a hotel in Paris for March...most online booking systems require a deposit at time of booking in order to validate the booking...is this amount refundable as long as you stay within the cancellation policy of the hotel?This policy seems to contradict the normal credit card validation I,m used to....would booking via email directly with the hotels eliminate the need for this prepaid deposit?
Posted by
Walnut Creek, CA
368 posts
Hi Alan:
I just booked booked a hotel in Paris for April. I emailed the hotel directly and they asked for Credit Card info to hold the reservation. Nothing charged to my card ubtil I stay there. However, if I cancel I have to cancel within 24 hours, or I will be charged for a night. I have never had to put a deposit to hold a room.
Also look at the Hotel's website, they may have special deals you an get.
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Yes, booking via email directly with the hotels may eliminate the need for the prepaid deposit that the room broker/intermediaries charge.