Originally Posted by
PHLGovFlyer
It's not a new policy. There are certain properties in the US (e.g. The Lodge at Healdsburg) that charge a deposit on every cash booking. There are many properties outside the US that do this as well. Apparently it's up to the individual property to set their own policy on deposits.
It was “new” for me because I stayed at both properties over the summer and many many times in the past. Had not encountered this before.