I was looking for another thread on this subject but couldn't find it, so I will post in the property thread! (Even Cheap Elite couldn't find it! )

I have a mileage run to Vegas coming up next month, and I found a $99 rate at the Westin Casuarina that includes $20 in Casino Play. This is not a prepaid rate and it can be cancelled up to 48 hrs before arrival. I booked it just to hold the room/rate while I'm still looking for a better deal. (After glancing at this thread, I probably will cancel as I didn't realize they also charge a resort fee! Didn't someone just bring this up? )

Anyhow, made the reservation 10 days ago, and I noticed that my credit card has just been charged even though the stay is not for another 3.5 weeks. Is this typical of Vegas properties or is it something I should address right away? Will I have any problems getting a refund if I cancel (which seems quite likely now)?

Thankfully, I used a US funds credit card to book this, otherwise, I would get dinged bank exchange fees on both the charge and the credit which would put me out $6-8 I think.