Marcia, sounds yucko and I feel for you, but you obviously clicked “book”, without reading what you were getting into. Every listing shows their cancelation policy. Hers would’ve said “strict” before you booked. Had you clicked on it you would’ve seen that that means you can’t cancel and get your money back. Even a “moderate”cancellation policy (which I have as a host) means you can’t get your money back if you cancel within 7 days. Most airbnb users make themselves aware of these policies and only book places with a “flexible” cancelation policy, unless they’re 100% sure they want the listing, which suits me. People tend to book my place at the last minute when they’re sure they’re coming. I love that as I don’t have to deal with answering dozens of questions from time wasters. Perfect.

Also, as for renting a space for a friend…. you really should read things when it involves getting your credit card out! Knowing who is coming to stay is how hosts can (in some small way) protect themselves from harm and also get some justice if things go wrong (as you have electronically agreed to take responsibility for your actions during your stay and provided identifying information, whereas your friend has not)…