I Face Misleading Off-Platform Payment Request from Airbnb Host in İzmir

I attempted to book an Airbnb listing titled “Sea View Villa with Sauna, Hammam, and Jacuzzi” hosted by Ş**** F**** for September 7–11. The listed price on Airbnb was ₺21,050. However, the host used the name of the Ministry of Tourism to redirect me to an external website and demanded a payment of ₺33,000–₺34,000 — far above the advertised rate. This has been ongoing for two days, and I have not made any payment.

The host claimed the villa was awaiting a Ministry permit, that the season was not officially open, and that the Airbnb price was an outdated automated rate from last year. They then encouraged me to follow them or visit another site for “updated prices.” This is a clear attempt to mislead customers and exploit a government institution’s name for personal gain.

I contacted Airbnb customer service, who confirmed I should not pay outside the platform, yet the host’s listing remains active. When I inquired from a different account for other dates, I received the same off-platform payment request.

I request Airbnb to block this host immediately, remove the listing, and help me secure a suitable alternative accommodation. The delay caused by this deception has left me without other viable booking options.