What was supposed to be a budget-friendly family getaway turned into a holiday from hell when the apartment block they booked turned out to be an active building site. The family, who wished to remain anonymous, arrived at the property in a popular tourist destination only to find construction workers, exposed wiring, and no running water or electricity.
No-Frills, but Not as Advertised
The booking was described as 'no-frills,' but the reality far exceeded their expectations for minimalism. The apartment, part of a block undergoing major renovations, had no functioning bathroom, kitchen, or even a lock on the front door. 'We knew it was budget, but we didn't expect to be camping in a construction zone,' the mother told reporters.
The family had booked through a well-known online platform that listed the property as 'basic but clean.' However, upon arrival, they found dust, debris, and tools scattered throughout the unit. 'There were workers walking in and out, drilling started at 7 a.m., and we had no way to cook or shower,' she added.
Safety Hazards and No Support
The situation quickly escalated when they realized the building lacked basic safety features. Exposed electrical wires hung from the ceiling, and the balcony had no railing. 'We have young children, and we were terrified they would get hurt,' the father said.
When they contacted the booking platform for a refund or alternative accommodation, they were initially told the property was 'as described.' Only after posting photos on social media did the company offer a partial refund, which the family refused, demanding a full refund and compensation for their ruined holiday.
Similar Incidents on the Rise
Consumer advocates say such incidents are becoming more common as budget accommodation platforms prioritize quantity over quality. 'We're seeing a rise in listings that are misleading or outright dangerous,' said Jane Smith, a consumer rights lawyer. 'Platforms need to do better vetting, or travelers will continue to be put at risk.'
According to a 2025 survey by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, one in five travelers reported issues with accommodation not matching its description. 'It's a significant problem that undermines trust in the sharing economy,' Smith added.
How to Protect Yourself
Travel experts recommend reading recent reviews thoroughly and looking for red flags such as generic photos or vague descriptions. 'If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is,' said travel blogger Mark Lee. 'Always check the location on Google Maps and ask the host specific questions before booking.'
The family eventually found alternative accommodation at a nearby hotel, but at double the cost. They are now pursuing a formal complaint with the booking platform and are warning others to be vigilant. 'We just want to make sure no one else goes through this,' the mother said.
