I just made reservations for a B&B in Salerno, Italy for 2 nights via their website/email (we will be arriving in about 3 weeks). I received a very nice email providing me the cost for the room, the directions to the B&B from the train station, and contact phone numbers. They did not ask for a credit card number to hold the room. I didn't offer either since I would of had to send the number via email--not a very secure transaction. Is this typical in Italy? The other places we are staying during our trip are hotels that we booked through Expedia. Thank you.
Posted by
New York
148 posts
It's common. While looking for hotels on Booking.com I came across a few B&Bs that are possible to reserve without a credit card.
Posted by
Huntsville, AL, USA
8371 posts
I booked 4 nights at the #1 B&B in the Rome area, and they too didn't require any deposit. B&B's are often on a more personal basis than full hotels. When booking hotels online, I usually go with Booking.com. They don't charge your card unless you're a no show.
Hotels.com and AirBnB.com charge your card for the whole reservation (prepay), even though it may be months before you're getting there.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
Just to confirm that it's common that if you are staying in a small non-chain B&B or guesthouse, and you booked directly with them rather than through another website, they do not need a credit card in advance. This is particularly true if you're planning to arrive relatively early in the day. Be aware that many such places don't take credit cards on check-out, either, so be prepared to pay cash unless you can confirm that they do accept credit cards.
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
553 posts
I agree with the thought that this is common practice in B&Bs and also in small, privately owned hotels. IF a credit card is requested, I send the numbers in two separate emails. And, with all my reservations, I confirm with the b&b or hotel a few weeks ahead, restating dates and any details such as type of room, parking arrangements, is breakfast included, etc. Often smaller establishments need to know your arrival time so they have someone available to welcome you. I use that confirmation email to send that information, as well. Just for my own peace of mind, when I travel I have the confirmations available, either as attachments to an email to myself, or in print form.
Posted by
OP
St. Mary's City, Maryland
11 posts
Thanks to all of the above for your helpful information. I now feel much better about my B&B reservation in Salerno.