We have used Airbnb for many weekends away in the past with no problems at all.
We are going to Manchester next weekend, 2 mature couples in our early 50's staying in an apartment for 1 night.
It's all booked and paid for. It's being advertised by a third party - Travel Nest who I've contacted today asking about parking because of possible rail strikes, they were helpful with my query.
Today the host has emailed directly me asking me for £100 security deposit and proof of ID and has given me her account details. I have emailed her back saying that this is against Airbnb t & c's and ensured her that the property will not be damaged in any way.
She has now back tracked and said that we don't need to pay her the £100 but she still needs ID before the keys can be collected from a local shop around the corner.
I've contacted Travel Nest who have also advised me NOT to hand any money over. I'm waiting for a response about the ID issue, I don't feel comfortable sending someone my ID with address etc on it.
My partner found this Airbnb and it had good recent reviews. I've since scrolled down further and have seen some slightly negative reviews stating that other people have been asked for money in advance and that people were left waiting until ID was sent over.
I'm feeling very uneasy about this situation now.
Where do we stand