Host Canceled My Booking, Booking.com Refused Full Compensation
On November 6, 2025, I made a reservation through Booking.com for a property in Colmar, France called “Le Red St Léon: Queen Size Bed * Wi-Fi * Ideal for Couples,” for the dates December 20–23, 2025. I received my reservation confirmation and paid $1,649 USD using my Ziraat Bank credit card. My reservation code is 5215150850.
Recently, I received an email from the host stating that the property had been rented to other guests and that I needed to cancel my reservation. I then contacted Booking.com by email. I was informed in writing that my situation would be resolved, that they would assist me with accommodation, and that if I found a similar property, the price difference would be covered by Booking.com.
Because my travel date is very close, I clearly stated that I would not be able to find accommodation in the same price range. Despite this, today I received another email from Booking.com saying that they would only be able to pay €60, and that I must cancel the reservation myself. My reservation was not made with free cancellation, yet they are still asking me to cancel it. This creates a serious lack of trust and raises concerns about whether my refund will be issued in full and on time.
Being left without accommodation and in uncertainty just one week before my trip has caused significant financial and emotional distress. First and foremost, I request an immediate and full refund of the $1,649 USD I paid. In addition, I expect Booking.com to honor its written promise to cover the price difference and provide equivalent accommodation of similar standards in the same city, so that my vacation plans are not disrupted.
