Check in - keys in location far from apartment

[John757]

Dear travellers,

I have an upcoming trip this Saturday and yesterday I messaged the host to ask if she would be waiting for us for the check in (or a friend/doorman). To my surprise she said I have to pick up the keys in bar, which is located within a 30min walk from the apartment or a 15min subway ride. I will be in another country, where I dont speak the language! 

The listing didn't mention anything about this, nor did she at any moment when I message her about my interest in her place. I am very disappointed as I wasn't counting on this detour and would not have reserved if I knew about it.

What can I do? The host said it would see with a neighbor and confirm tomorrow one day before my trip!! 

Thank you for all sugestions. 

[Annette33]

@John757 , are you still in the US? which country are you traveling to? Most other countries one can expect the host to speak or understand some English. Still, I would double check and make sure you didn't misunderstand the listing and that indeed the host didn't say anything about this strange check in arrangement.

I would make it very clear to the host that check in has to happen at the place you booked, not picking up the key somewhere else. If this cannot get straightened out to your satisfaction before you leave, call Airbnb immediately and request they book you somewhere else.

Or, if  you like complete control over where you stay (i would!), go ahead and cancel that particular stay and book another one. As far as I know, guests now can cancel 3x per year and also get their service fees refunded. But to be on the safe side, call Airbnb first to verify that ,have them cancel your stay , then book somewhere else. Good luck!

[John757]

Yes, I am in the US an the listing was in English, so (un)fortunately I didn't miss anything. I will contact airbnb. Thank you!