It seems quite apparent that a lot of hosts find the currently available levels of cancellation policies less than perfect. I've seen several who write that there needs to be a level between "Moderate" and "Strict"; I completely agree! Or, why couldn't there simply be an option where the host can set a cancellation fee or percentage of the total reservation (within limits). If I have a two-night reservation cancel, its no big deal, but if I have a 10-night reservation cancel---that IS a big deal.
And what about AIRBNB offering trip cancellation/interruption insurance? This seems like it could be a really BIG benefit to hosts and guests alike, and it could be offered quite inexpensively. AIRBNB could easily contract with a vendor (there are many) to offer the insurance on an option (checkbox) basis. This cancellation insurance is offered out of vending machines in airports---don't tell me AIRBNB cannot find a way to offer this and nearly remove the angst felf by both hosts and guests when "stuff" happens and a cancellation is necessary. Not to mention the hit a host takes if AIRBNB uses its extenuating circumstances policy and gives back the money. How about it AIRBNB??? Doesn't cancellation insurance seem like a "shared community" thing to do? at least poll your membership to get an indication of the community's feel on the subject.
