I don't know all the details but I'll give it a try. How's this... "As you know, non-essential travel is now prohibited due to Covid-19. I have tried to cancel my reservation but, so far, this has not been possible. I understand the reasons for your non-refundable reservation policy during normal times, however, I think you will agree that a global pandemic constitutes exceptional circumstances, and I ask you to reconsider your decision. There is no doubt that the hotel industry is feeling an enormous loss of revenue because of this terrible virus which has effected all our lives. To counter these effects, I'm told that the Government of Canada will be spending some 27 billion dollars to help individual Canadians and businesses such as yours. It appears that help is on the way for your business. With that in mind, I'm wondering why (hotel name) has decided to keep the money of travelers who must cancel their reservations through no fault of their own during a global pandemic. Can you explain this policy? Money will become very important to me and my family over the coming months as we continue to deal with the effects of this virus. Your business will be seeking help from the Government of Canada, and I will be seeking help from you. Please reconsider your decision to keep my money. I'm asking for a full refund because of the exceptional circumstances, but I'm also willing to discuss a partial refund if you feel it is absolutely necessary. I look forward to hearing from you, Sincerely, Minsook Park "

Did they give you a reason why they can't provide a refund? If you paid using a credit card that provides trip cancellation insurance coverage, then that is another possibility.

You have to legally wait for the airline to send you correspondence that your flight is cancelled; then and only then can you make a claim from any insurance company you took out insurance with. You might be able to get a refund if you wait until flight is officially cancelled, but it is unlikely, because many insures have only included CORONAVIRUS COVID2019 in the last month. If you took out the standard travel insurance most carriers offer, you can get a refund, but only when the flight is officially cancelled, if coronavirus is included. Although many flights international are restricted for thirty days, the airlines are not officially cancelling flights until the last minute (about two days before) in the hope that they idon'thave to cancel.

My booking was cancelled for free. Thank you so much.