@Kathy335
Hi Kathy, unfortunately this is one of the penalties that Airbnb imposes when a host cancels a guests confirmed reservation.
Please remember this has not been done by humans, it is a program generated response that is triggered by a host cancellation.
I am providing you here with the link to host cancellation penalties. Read it and you will understand a bit more, but can I just say....never, but never cancel a confirmed guest reservation and do not accept responsibility if Airbnb asks you to cancel on behalf of a guest.
What happens is Airbnb will tell the guest that the only way they can have all their money refunded is if the host cancels the booking. That way Airbnb can penalise you, the host.
When a guest requests that you cancel tell them you do not accept the cancellation and if they do not wish to proceed it will be up to them as the guest to cancel, you will not be responsible for their change of mind or plans!
If a hosting cannot take place on your part, contact Airbnb, explain the situation and ask them to relocate the guest so that the responsibility is shifted from you.
Here is that link ....
https://www.airbnb.ca/help/article/990/i-m-a-host--what-penalties-apply-if-i-need-to-cancel-a-reserv...
So Kathy, you can't open those dates, but as I said customer support are human and do understand that some circumstances can at times be unfair if you contact them on this number...
United States and Canada | +1-415-800-5959 +1-855-424-7262 (toll-free) |
they may be able to release you from this cancellation without penalty.
and I hope this helps Kathy.
Cheers.....Rob