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IN BRIEF
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A recent incident in Spain has highlighted the disappointment experienced by hundreds of vacationers. Those drawn by the promise of relaxing holidays in Lloret de Mar found upon arrival that their accommodation, the Hostal de la Playa, had indeed been closed for several months for renovation work. This situation provoked a vehement reaction and a wave of anger among the tourists, confronted with a sad reality that did not meet their expectations.
A disastrous arrival in Lloret de Mar
The tourists, eager to discover the charming beaches of Lloret de Mar, had booked their stay in complete confidence through online booking platforms. Between June 7 and 9, they were struck by the unexpected closure of the hotel. Indeed, once on-site, they found that the establishment was surrounded by barriers and signs indicating that it was “closed.” Many vacationers, faced with this abrupt disruption of their plans, tried in vain to force access to the hotel. Acts of anger were reported, with some even breaking windows in their frustration.
Communication and management issues
What made the situation even more complex was that the hotel had changed ownership without this being clearly communicated to customers who had made reservations. The new owner, Josep Alà, explained that he had taken steps to remove the remaining booking links and had informed the police of the situation. His lawyer added that there were no longer any relations with the previous management, emphasizing that the new operator was not responsible for the previous reservations made by tourists.
A situation of opacity
The confusion surrounding this matter raises several questions. Was it simply an oversight by the former manager not to cancel the active listings, or a technical failure of well-known booking platforms like Booking.com? In any case, many vacationers found themselves in an uncomfortable situation, with hopes of sunny holidays dashed.
The support of local authorities
To address this unfortunate situation, the Lloret de Mar tourist office took the initiative to assist the affected tourists. However, the details regarding the assistance and support they were able to provide are not yet well defined. This type of situation is regrettable, especially in a destination that attracts so many visitors each year. Vacationers hope that the upcoming seasons will be better organized to avoid such inconveniences.
Renovation and a fresh start
Despite this unfortunate experience, the Hostal de la Playa will soon undergo a major transformation. Under the new name of Hostal Blanc Lloret, the establishment will reopen for the summer season, although additional renovation work is planned afterward. This new phase could offer a modernized and pleasant space for future visitors, while hoping that the lessons learned from managing reservations are well integrated into the process.
Projections for holidays in Spain
Vacationers, despite their mishaps, remain eager to discover the rest of Lloret de Mar’s attractions and other Spanish destinations. For those planning to travel soon, it is essential to stay informed about accommodation situations and to verify booking confirmations before heading to the site. Whether for a family getaway or a trip with friends, Spain retains its appeal with its beaches, gastronomy, and rich cultural heritage.
