Host replies on and off..

[Samantha479]

Hi all, 

(I have read through similar articles about host not replying messages.)

My booking is confirmed, dropped a message to the host 2 days ago and did not reply since then. I am feeling worried because this is my airbnb trip.

The posted phone number is not reachable via WhatsApp.. would like to know if there is any other way to contact them? I can't give them a call as I am from Malaysia. 

[Helen3 · Accepted solution]

If there is something urgent and the host isn't replying, then you could contact them via airbnb @Samantha479 

[Samantha479]

Thanks @Helen3. Will I be considered as spamming the host for a reply? 

[Helen3]

What is it that you are asking the host @Samantha479 ?

Is it something urgent?

When is your travel?

[Samantha479]

@Helen3 phone number I'll be using in Norway.


My travel date is early next month. 

[Ana1136]

@Samantha479 you are giving him your new number? Did you insta book or did he approve your request? If you are just giving him your number and not asking anything he might feel that there is no reason to respond. I would just text him on his phone number, it is not free but it is less expensive than calling. And if you are asking the host to provide you with a new sim card or recommend a phone carrier while abroad, I would just tell you to search online and possibly give you some links, which again are easily searchable. That is your choice and depends on your needs, how should the host know what it is that you need. 

[Samantha479]

@Ana1136 I did not give him/her any number yet. Got it by instant booking. I asked the host whether it's okay for us to liaise through WhatsApp because 1) I am only able to purchase a phone sim card when I arrive at my destination or 2) might just use wifi and save the hassle of getting a sim card.

Thanks for replying.

[Cathie19]

I think @Samantha479, your request is completely subjective and not one that the host may wish to recommend. 

It would depend on many things.

1. Your current Malaysian plan, including your global roaming charges, and whether you retain cellular data as well as just wifi.

2. How long you are travelling in Norway and if travelling to other countries within a short time frame.

3. If travelling alone or needing to communicate with others in Norway during your stay.

4. is your Malaysian phone on a plan or pre paid.

There are a number of sites and travel forums that share opinion on this very matter.

I’ve attached a link that might help you decide.

https://www.whistleout.com.au/MobilePhones/Guides/taking-your-phone-overseas

[Samantha479]

@Cathie19, as mentioned in my reply to Ana, I only asked the host whether it's possible for us to communicate via WhatsApp or no. Well, I usually use public wifi whenever I'm overseas and would like to remain the same. I will provide my host the number when time comes/ I get a reply (I hope). 

My family and I be in Norway (our 2nd stop) for three days and continue to the next country for 5 days. My Malaysian phone is on a plan. 

Thank you very much for the link. 

[Sarah977]

@Samantha479   Whenever a guest or a host is not receiving answers to messages,  (of course, don't expect a reply within 10 minutes- there are time zone issues, people may be at work, etc but not responding within a day or so) you can just contact Airbnb and ask them to contact the other party and urge them to respond to you. This usually works. If Airbnb can't reach them either, this is good for them to know, in case you arrive to find the host isn't there or there's something else amiss.

[Cathie19]

@Samantha479 

Enjoy your holiday!