I am traveling with a group of friends to Barcelona and we have rented an apartment. They are asking for payment in cash upon arrival. Is this the norm? The company is Feel Barcelona, anyone have any reviews?
Posted by
gaston, oregon, usa
842 posts
Yep, it is the norm for apts. in many places in the EU. Many ask for 10- 50% cash BEFORE you arrive.
We try to find apts that take credit cards, but many still do it the old fashioned way........cash only. (
At least you get to make sure that the apt exists before you hand over the cash.
We always try to use agency's that cover all of the EU, like VRBO and Homelidays, for apt rentals.
Usually , if it is listed with them, it will be "legit".
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
Yup, that's been our experience as well. Often, there is a downpayment required at the time of making the reservation, usually between 20-50% of the total amount. The final payment is due upon arrival. In addition to that a dammage deposit may be required on arrival as well, could be in the amount of about 50% of a week's rent.
The majority of landlords we've encountered for such vacation rentals have not access to credit card payments. They may allow you to make a deposit in their bank account but considering the cost of money transfers from Northamerican banks to European banks cash payments are much easier to handle.
In a few cases we've been able to pay via paypal. That is convenient, cost effective and quite safe.