As summer holidays get closer and closer, you must be looking for some really nice and relaxing rental accommodations on our marvellous French Riviera and we’re sure you must have been inundated with plenty of adverts. BUT are they all genuine? So many holidaymakers have unfortunately been victims of scams of all kinds. Besides the very common financial scams, there have been so many instances where the property or even the proposed surroundings do not match the photos. In order to save yourself and your family from any such scams and to enjoy your holidays to the fullest, we suggest you review the following.
Enticing prices, a real bargain: Ask yourself the right questions!
Say around one month before your holiday, you come across a villa by the Mediterranean Sea for six people for less than €600/week. It is best to contact the person and also carry out some checks yourself before making the reservation. Never hesitate to ask for more photos or a more detailed description of the villa that you wish to rent out and also of the surrounding areas. You can also check on Google Maps to make sure the information provided is accurate and not misleading.
Verify the identity and existence of the agent and/or the online reputation of the website.
Scams often have the same profile. These “scammer” advertisers are difficult to get hold of over the phone and would rather prefer communicating by email always. Look for an agency that has a physical office, where the staff replies to phone calls and who are there to help you if there are any problems. Check on infogreffe.fr or atout-francs.fr – These sites list genuine and accredited tourism companies. You can also read reviews of the site provided by other customers. There are various independent organisations such as the Opinion System, that reliably collect reviews from customers (Link: http://riviera.opinionsystem.fr/#review)
Ask for a written and signed agreement:
Before carrying out any financial transaction, ensure that the agency or the advertiser is able to provide you with a detailed written tenancy agreement for your holiday rental accommodation which should include all the details about the property and any other relevant information. The amenities, timings for access to the common swimming pool (if any), any rules, etc. Such information is essential and demonstrates good faith from the renting agency or individual. Renting an apartment or a villa during busy festival periods and that too in a beautiful region like the French Riviera requires proper vigilance. Trust your instincts and go with an agency who know their job well and can ensure that you can leave in peace.
