So much for protecting my money!

On 8 December 2015 I booked accommodation through a reputable website online. <br> <br> On 10 December 2015 the hotel tried to take the amount for the accommodation off my credit card. According to the hotel the transaction was denied but the amount was taken off my card SIX times. I have sms notification on my account, so was informed immediately of the transactions. Within 5 minutes I was on the phone to ABSA card division to see if I stop the transactions. <br> <br> ABSA was not interested. The only option they gave me was to cancel my card but I would still be liable for the payments. They said I must contact the hotel. The hotel has not received the money and as the payment was according to them denied can not reverse the transaction. <br> <br> The money is still pending/uncleared on my account. <br> <br> In the mean time there is nearly R 18 000 missing from my credit card and I have no more money available to use - I can not use my credit card. <br> <br> While I know I take the risk with the payment, ABSA does not protect my money!