AIBU to not want to pay a ridiculous Cancellation fee 3 months in advance?

[cinderella1]

Hi all, booked a cottage in Finland via Booking.com for Feb half-term without reading the small print and after realising that they've taken the full amount out of my AmEx, tried to cancel the booking straight away. Plus, I did later find a much better offer for another place . However, I've had a reply today, saying that they insist on holding on to 30% deposit i.e. £400 on a £1100 booking regardless. I know I should've read the small print but I did try to cancel straight away and that was yesterday = 2 1/2 months in advance? Any advice is greatly appreciated, please?

If it's the T&Cs, all you can do is appeal to their better nature. If the new booking was through Booking.com they may be more inclined to help you; but I'm guessing Booking are the agents and have paid the cottage owners now so won't really be able to help.

None of the distance buying regulations apply to accommodation as far as I'm aware, so you've got no legal help.

Can you cancel the new place without incurring fees?

Yes, I can but it is so much better and as there is a group of us going I feel so bad for letting others down too. All for a blooming 15mins rash booking!