contacting people who you have declined?

[Rachel169]

I declined a request from an Airbnb member earlier in the year who wanted to book for Xmas as I thought my flat was not free. It is now free but Airbnb will not allow me to contact the guest. I cannot find out how to contact Airbnb about this (as usual) as it was never a confirmed reservation. Could someone help me?

[Marzena4]

It's a security setting on Airbnb - you will not be able to send them any message, @Rachel169

[Rachel169]

I can never tell what price anything is going to be - or what the Airbnb pricing structure is.

It is not at all transparent. What's more I have asked plenty of times and no one can seem to tell me.

[Lawrene0]

It was pricing, and not availability, @Rachel169? If you are having trouble with Smart Pricing, absolutely turn it off. Set your own prices. I know it makes me happier. 

But if you want to know how smart pricing works, there is this new thread that should help: How Smart Pricing Works

[Rachel169]

I mean - how and why does Airbnb charge its fees. What percentage do they take. What is their pricing structure.

[Lawrene0]

That's in the Help Centre, @Rachel169. I know! It is all a bit vague. But you can check a specific date or set of dates yourself by going to the preview of your listing and entering a date range in "check in" and "check out". You cannot book your own place, of course, but you can see the pricing there above the "Book" button. 

[Gordon0]

>>I mean - how and why does Airbnb charge its fees<<

Is this a trick question?

Airbnb makes its money from the fees it charges. It's a business. 

[Rachel169]

‘ A bit vague’ is an understatement. I have of course done what u suggested but I think Airbnb are not transparent and that’s a huge problem. I am looking at alternative, better sites in the future as I feel very uncomfortable with their business model. They can’t continue