I booked a nonrefundable property, and the host did not give me accurate checkin instructions (he said he would give a key code and never did). So I waited at the property for him to respond, next to security guards. The security guards approached me as I’m an obvious tourist with my luggage, unable to get in, and pointed to a sign that says “THIS IS FOR RESIDENTS ONLY. SHORT TERM RENTERS WILL BE SUBJECT TO $300/DAY IN FINES AND UP TO ONE YEAR IMPRISONMENT”
I contact my host, who responds, still not giving me check in instructions, and he says “it’s not a problem because there are a lot of guests” implying they won’t notice me, which they already have because I was standing there waiting so long for the host. I ask for a refund and he starts ignoring me. I have still not had any way to get into the property AND the guards are aware of me.
I contacted AirBnB days ago explaining the situation and asking for a refund. They have been zero help, responding to me every 24-48 hours saying “we tried to call you but no answer” yet I’m abroad and I don’t have calling, then a day later “my shift is about to end. Check these Q&As if you need help.”
I truly cannot believe how horrible their support as been and unwillingness to help. Has anyone had a support request successful? A successful request for refund? What do I need to do in this situation? Go to Twitter, tiktok, Instagram?