Last-Minute Cancellation of $1,988 Vrbo in U.S. Virgin Islands
- A family booked an eight-night Vrbo rental in St. Thomas for $1,988 but faced a last-minute cancellation by the owner.
- They incurred additional lodging costs of $4,147 and received only partial compensation from Vrbo.
- The incident emphasizes the risks of short-term rentals and suggests that hotels may offer more reliable options.
In March, a family booked an eight-night rental in St. Thomas for $1,988 through Vrbo, planning a spring break getaway. However, the owner canceled the reservation just a day before their departure, leaving the family without accommodations as they were en route from Denver. Despite contacting Vrbo for assistance, they were offered a refund or the option to book a hotel through Expedia while Vrbo helped find a new rental. The family ultimately secured a Westin resort for two nights, a Vrbo rental at the Ritz-Carlton for four nights, and another Vrbo property for the final night. This last-minute scramble resulted in a total lodging cost of $4,147, significantly exceeding their original budget. Additionally, they incurred $200 in environmental fees at the Ritz, along with taxi fares and the loss of a vacation day. Vrbo later communicated that the family would receive $861 as a goodwill gesture, in addition to the $3,330 already refunded. However, the family felt this compensation was insufficient to cover their additional expenses, which did not include transportation and other incidental costs as per Vrbo's terms and conditions. The situation highlights the risks associated with short-term rentals, particularly regarding cancellations, and raises questions about the adequacy of protections for consumers in such scenarios. The family’s experience underscores the importance of considering traditional hotels for more reliable accommodations, especially during peak travel seasons.