Web Warning

I am writing to warn travelers to use caution when renting a vacation property via the Internet.

For my family’s Christmas vacation in France, we had found an apartment represented by an agency in Paris that specialized in properties with charm (as opposed to the utilitarian, business-oriented places). We were willing to live with a few rough edges. The apartment did have charm, but it also had intermittent hot water, electricity in only one-third of the outlets, stained and torn linen, and a dangerous situation with the gas stove.

When we called the agency regarding the problems, they were not only unhelpful but accused us of having caused the problems. We were also charged for many extras.

My husband is French, so the problems were not at all the result of not speaking the language.

There are no doubt numerous good rental agencies in Paris, but one should make sure to get a recommendation from a satisfied client.

ELISABETH MENTION

Woodland Hills