Two of my trips were cancelled, one international and the other was domestic. We had an 18 day trip to Spain and Portugal through
Gate1 Travel in April 2020. They initiated the cancellation and offered full credit for future trip if booked within 18 months.
As an option to future credit, Gate1's refund offer was 75% of the cost of the tour, and 100% of airfare, less any fees. I opted for the refund, given the uncertain financial situation of tour companies due to Covid-19. I received all of the promised money from Gate1 within two weeks of my original request.
I also received 100% refund from
Airbnb for domestic trip. I corresponded twice with the host, who was totally unresponsive. My dates of reservation were within Airbnb's Covid-19 policy so they allowed a full refund despite the host's strict cancellation policy.
Conclusion
I'm mildly disappointed that I didn't get 100% cash refund from
Gate1 Travel, but it was my choice to take the 75% refund rather than the full credit for future trips. I'm sensitive to travel company's tenuos financial situation due to Covid-19. Although we enjoy independent travel, we have taken two prior small group tours with Gate1 Travel (Croatia/Slovenia and Greece), and have been highly satisfied with the quality of the tours and value for the money.
Gate1's customer service is below average, but I will travel with them again.
Regarding
Airbnb, I have used them multiple times and will do so again. However, in the future, I will restrict my reservations to
Airbnb's "
Superhosts". They are given "
Superhost" designation after a record of good customer reviews and responsive customer service.