I have an Evil Emily rule for things like this: Do not pay for anything yourself (unless it's something you can easily afford or your Tesco shopping). If it's something to benefit a client/agency, let them sort it out and that way, you'll never be in the position, two weeks down the line, of trying desperately to get your money back from someone who WAS sensible enough to deal with you anonymously and not put up any cash, and who is certainly not going to answer your calls.

This rule applies doubly to agency dealings. I've been abroad with clients twice (and never again! But that's a different essay ) and both times, the agencies made sure the client paid for everything up front for me. It was a basic measure of timewaster-avoidance. 

darn- booked them already- let's c how this pans out... was told the client will pay for them, when I see him. Been told he is well trusted by the agency- i'm gambling here. Thanx for the advice though, and next time, I will do as you guys have said- I would feel more peaceful.