Booking direct rather than Airbnb

[LaLaFlottes]

Hello!
I've found an apartment in Lucca that I'd like to book for a week. I've found it on Airbnb.

I noticed that the host is a company, Lucca Apartments and Villas S.R.L and they are super hosts and seem to have quite a few properties on Airbnb, with good reviews.

I took a look at their own website and the same apartment is £273 cheaper. I assume due to the fees that Airbnb charge.

Has anyone gone ahead and booked directly? Does Airbnb give any more security? They appear to be a long standing company and advertise on VRBO too.

Thanks!

I work in this industry. We advertise some of our properties on Airbnb and VRBO as it increases exposure. We scale up the price to cover the platforms' fees and both Airbnb and VRBO also add their own 'service fee' onto each booking.

It's always cheaper to book direct if you can. If it's a legitimate agency then it'll probably be fine. Use a credit card for extra protection.

I'd say that most property owners would rather you booked direct but you might prefer to have Airbnb involved in case of problems. Not saying they are problem free but might help in some cases

I second this. We used to be in the industry and much preferred direct bookings.

You've just reminded me I need to finalise my booking, the trouble with going direct is that it often isn't as easy as just clicking the button.

Would never use Airbnb, completely unscrupulous and unregulated. If you've checked it out I would book direct, and use a credit card as a PP said.