Is paying by Western Union a legitimate request in Croatia?

[travellover2]

I have been asked to mail an MTCN and pay by Western Union to reserve an apartment in Dubrovnik with Dino Alkovic at
dubrovnikapartments-mia. I am to send 50 E to his Montenegro address. Is this legitimate? His apartments are also listed on Expedia, but the rate is much less expensive directly through him. I hope Croatia Traveller can let me know as soon as possible as I would like to make this reservation if it is not fraudulent. Thank you for your very useful website.

[Jeanne]

Yes, this is normal and he is legitimate. Many owners in Croatia require a deposit to hold a reservation and Western Union is the most practical solution. Their revenue is too small to justify an investment in a credit card machine which involves an expensive business account. PayPal does not operate in Croatia. That leaves Western Union.

Relax and enjoy your holiday!

Jeanne