Having a child with special needs, my wife and I make it a point to search for a holiday apartment that would be suitable to cater for our needs and those of our son. This trip we were also joined by both of our parents and looked forward to a two week holiday close to the mountains.
The listing for this apartment appeared to be one that would fulfill our needs: 4 bedrooms, towels and linens, access to the Internet and a kitchen for preparing our meals. One important item that, to be fair, was not listed in the amenities pertained to a washing machine. So before making a booking, I had contacted the owner of the property to inquire about a washing machine given the limited clothing we would have for a 13-night stay. The owner's reply stated: "Dear Brian, The washing machine is in the cellar and you can use it gladly. Kind regards, 'Owners Name omitted for posting'"
This was extremely important to us so as not to overpack clothing. With my mind put to rest that a washing machine would be available, I made the booking.
When we arrived we were greeted by the husband who was very nice. We were informed that his wife was abroad and would be returning in four days time. I asked him to show us how to use the washing machine as not enough towels were left for 7 people. He was hesitant, I thought that perhaps he wasn't familiar with how to use it so we decided to wait until his wife returned. Upon her arrival, we learned that to use the washing machine we would need to pay an extra 7 euro per load, and she told us this after having washed 5 loads which included the limited towels she had provided! We had complained and given her limited ability in speaking English, she had a young lady who was visiting her, translate for us and we were told, sarcastically, 'what's the big deal, it's only 7 euros' I replied that had we been told this in the emails before making the booking I would have been better informed and could have searched for another apartment. We were also told that they didn't need to list this information on their property listing, which in my mind, leads to extortion of money. Sadly, we ended up washing our own clothes in the bathroom sink which was a HUGE inconvenience. We also had difficulties connecting to the Internet and spent the first 4 days without, it was sporadic at best & improved during the last four days of our stay. While the rest of the apartment was good be careful if a washing machine and Internet is important for you.
