@Glen637 I understand. I just thought that either they've booked, and so messaging is an available option, or they've inquired, and certainly a message has to go through then?? Yikes-what a mess! I have a message required either way. At least that's what my settings are supposed to do.....who knows what glitch will come along next??
But overall, I have found that having that language in my listing has helped. Prior to that their message might have said something like, "Looking forward to our stay. Thanks!". Now guests are more likely to provide what I'm asking for, and it opens the door to a conversation.
Let's hope AirBnB gets this fixed soon, and/or stops trying to "fix" their glitchy website. At least leave the parts that work alone.