Why has another host booked with me?

[Dan-and-Julie0]

Hi! I'm really new to this. I just had a one night booking come in from someone who is a host of a property just the next town over (like, 10 minutes by car!). I've heard that sometimes hosts 'compete' by trying to get negative reviews for other local hosts. Should I be worried? Should I cancel his booking? Or would it be rude to ask him his reasons for staying? Please let me know what best practice is here, or maybe even tell me that I'm worrying about nothing!

Thank you.

[Lawrene0]

It is never rude to ask what brings a guest to your area, @Dan-and-Julie0. In this case, it seems a particularly good question. "So, [name], you are a host only 10 minutes away from us, I see! What brings you to our place?" 

If you just go ahead and cancel his booking yourself, you will be hit with penalties. (Read about them in the Help Centre.) If you are truly uncomfortable with his answer, or non-answer, you can contact Airbnb for help with the cancellation. 

Hope this helps. 

[City-Limits-Ranch0]

It could be quite innocent.  Maybe he has a big groupstaying with him and  needs a place for himself to sleep.  Just ask him.

[Dan-and-Julie0]

Thanks to both of you for your advice! It's been helpful. 🙂