I just received an email from one of my accomodations asking me to send a 'cheque' for a deposit. I looked on line to see what I had to do and it says there will be a fifty dollar fee to cash the check. That doesn't seem right. Can you tell me what I need to send and how to send it in Euro? Sorry if this is a dumb question.
I've had to do that once in Ireland and a couple of times in the UK. This is a groing trend because lots of places are no longer accepting VISA and MC because of the cost. From what I can tell, they get charged somewhere around 3% which isn't outrageous, but there may be surcharges if there is little use.
You probably need to talk to the owner and explain that you will be sending a check in dollars. They won't cash the check because they will probably incur a substantial charge also. It's meant as security to hold the room. Make sure that is what they plan to do.
Bill's advice is right on. The B&B just wants to be sure you are going to show up. Lately the banks in Ireland are making the B&Bs change over from their old manual machines to ones where you swipe the card through. It costs a lot more money and they must also pay a hefty fee per month (even for the months they are closed). Some owners are just getting fed up with all the extra added costs and either get out of the business or change the way they do business. Some will still take a credit card for a reservation, but don't be surprised if they a want cash payment instead when you check out.
Just tell them you will send a check in American dollars.
Thanks Michele & Bill. I will contact the B&B and clarify what they want from me...their email was very vague. I"m sure it is exactly what you two are saying.