Booking Safely in South Africa: How to Avoid Scams When Planning Your Stay

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At Perna Perna, guest safety and peace of mind are just as important as comfort and hospitality. Unfortunately, accommodation scams have become more common across South Africa, with fraudsters targeting holidaymakers through fake listings, cloned ads, and dishonest private “agents.”To help you book with confidence, we’ve put together practical guidelines to protect yourself from being scammed.

🔹 1. Only Book Through Verified Platforms or Direct Channels

Make sure the listing appears on trusted sites like:

• Airbnb

• Booking.com

• LekkeSlaap

• Perna Perna’s official website or WhatsApp number

If someone claims to represent Perna Perna but asks you to book privately or off-platform, double-check with us directly before making payment.

🔹 2. Never Pay Into a Personal Bank Account

Reputable accommodations will:

• Use secure payment links

• Provide business banking details or recognised booking platformsAvoid any host who insists on:

• Cash deposits

• WhatsApp-only agreements

• Immediate EFT to a private account

🔹 3. Check Contact Details Before Paying

Scammers often copy real ads and change only the phone number or email. Before you pay:

• Confirm the booking with Perna Perna Reception or your host directly

• Verify the unit number, check-in instructions, and payment details match what’s on the official platforms or website

You are always welcome to phone or WhatsApp us to confirm anything before you proceed.

🔹 4. Look Out for Unrealistic Deals or Urgency Tactics

Be cautious of:

• “Last-minute specials” that sound too good to be true

• Pressured payments (“pay now or lose the booking”)

• Listings with no reviews or generic photos

Legitimate hosts will happily answer questions and provide proof of booking.

🔹 5. Ask for Confirmation Documents

A legitimate booking should come with:

• A booking confirmation or reference number

• Check-in time and procedure

• Host or reception contact details

If you don’t receive this, treat it as a warning sign.

🔹 6. Use Google & Social Media to Cross-Check

Search the property online:

• Compare photos and names

• Read reviews

• Check the address on a mapIf you can’t find any trace of the accommodation elsewhere, it might be fake.

🔹 7. Report Suspicious Ads

If you encounter an ad claiming to be Perna Perna that seems off:

• Screenshot it

• Send it to us immediately

• Avoid any contact with the scammer

You’ll also help protect others.

✅ How Perna Perna Protects You

To keep our guests secure, we:

• Verify all bookings against official guest lists

• Do not allow access to anyone without confirmed check-in documentation

• Provide receipts or confirmations through trusted channels only

• Encourage guests to contact us before paying anyone

If you're ever unsure about a booking or host, you can contact us directly for verification.

📞 Reception / WhatsApp: 084 506 6130🌐 Website: www.perna-perna.co.za

Your Peace of Mind Matters

Booking a holiday should be exciting, not stressful. With the right checks, you can avoid scammers and enjoy your stay with confidence.

Feel free to reach out to Perna Perna anytime for confirmation, advice, or assistance before finalizing a booking. Your safety starts with secure booking—let us help you get it right from the start.

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