First and foremost I would like to say that i am a huge believer in positive criticism and advice from people with travel experience. However, in order to respond appropriately I had to know my facts and figures and a quick view at the profile of this displeased traveller revealed nothing short of a pattern of complaints which immediately made me feel a little better about my review.
I feel the best and most positive way to respond is to break down the review, point by point and then discuss before concluding.
I am sincerely sorry for the inconvenience caused by the TV and internet playing up, but as you said it was well handled and needs no explanation further than ‘bad timing’. I am also very pleased that someone has mentioned how fantastic Cathy, the agent is. She certainly makes a huge difference, though normally it is by adding to the many positive experiences of the visitors! With regard to the size of the apartment, whilst it is not large, it is ample for up to four people and ideal for two, and at this stage I would like to point out that the advert suggests nothing more than that. With regard to the comment on the awkwardness of the toilet, it is possibly fair to say that buildings built in 1828 were perhaps not quite as practical as today but at the risk of sounding rude, no ‘working out’ is required at all. The bed is ‘placed’ not jammed in between two walls and was done so at the advice of a trained interior decorator to add to the style and cozyness of the bedroom. The kitchen can be seen in more than one of the photographs on the site and whilst it does not encourage massive dinner parties, it is more than enough to cook for four or six people and I am personally yet to find an item at the fresh market that cannot be cooked in the apartment. I feel it would be unfair for me to comment on the issue of vagrancy or the stench mentioned, as I have not experienced either in the 3 months I lived there, other than a once off group of drunk young men who were chased away by the police. No other tenant has brought it to my attention or that of the agent, but the agent has agreed to take it up with the council and police and should there be an issue, it will be resolved.
With regard to the issue of the wiring, safety, fire risk and ‘dampness’ from the bathroom, I cannot say I agree with any of the above comments. The building in which the apartment is situated is a Historical monument building and therefore the owner is somewhat tied in what can be altered. The council has very strict regulations which we have to thank for keeping it as beautiful as it is. Altering the apartment in order to modernize it any further would take away from the uniqueness of this fantastic apartment. That said ,one thing that I would NEVER overlook is safety and I have contacted an electrician who will be meeting with Cathy to ensure all the wiring is safe and if any should be regarded unsafe, to change such. In addition I have written to the council and applied to put a small window in the bathroom to help with the damp mentioned, which I can honestly say I have never experienced.
I feel at this time it is only fair that I point out that the apartment has been the base to a great many visitors to Antibes. 2012 has 27 bookings so far and 2011 was as busy . This review is the very first negative review or for that matter the very first single point of criticism from any tenant. In 2013 I already have bookings for a third consecutive year from certain return tenants and many second timers this year.
Being positioned in the old town, right next door to the famous market and 20 metres from the sea makes it unbeatable as far as position, and access to all the town has to offer, goes. Double glazed windows mean that you can be a part of the festivities right up until lights out and then simply switch it all off! If the criticism is that my apartment does not boast a 21’st century hotel room finish or feel, then I will say that I am happy with that and acknowledge that my apartment is an ‘Old Town Antibes Experience’ and not just a place to stay. Though 100% is my goal, if 99 percent of my tenants can only write in praise and thanks, I will accept that the place speaks for itself!
