unwanted guests

[freddy1]

Has anyone ever received enquiries from guests and you know within the first minute they are going to be a problem if you accept them but can't find a way of curtailing the conversation? I had someone call 2 days ago asking all sorts of questions, saying they were on my website etc. I told them to go via the online booking button - which is on the top half of the home page - they couldn't see it then found it after a conversation between themselves. They still asked prices of rooms when viewing the online system, I told them rooms prices varied, they quoted a price and I told them that was for such and such room, but they didn't really comprehend. They said they were looking around for a certan weekend and would get back to me. I must admit that I have put the answerfone on because I really don't want them as I know they are going to run me ragged. I thought it may be easier to leave the answerfone on as I don't know what to say to turn them down. I know it sounds unethical etc but there really are some guests one can do without and although these are leaner times I still think my sanity is more important. Also, if something goes wrong they may post on Tripadvisor so I am one bit of a dilemma. Luckily I know of 2 the telphone numbers they call from.

[canter]

I've had similar calls. One particular lady asked every question under the sun (although was very polite) and called several times with more questions. She then sent the wrong deposit amount and I had to contact her. I thought the same; that we'd have a problem with her, but it turned out she was the lovliest lady you could meet. I felt very guilty for thinking bad things about her. Her husband was just as nice. After meeting her and then getting to know her during breakfast I could see she just wanted everything sorted and confirmed before her visit. Some people are just like that (worriers?). Since then I've had callers asking all sorts of things and have just learnt to be patience.