The picture on the Sykes web page shows the front of a handsome building and from this it was easy to assume that the Duplex was one of the apartments in the picture.
“However, this was a gross misrepresentation of the actual location which turned out to be an extension built into the carpark at the rear. To conceal the true identity even further, Sykes failed to give the apartment number on their confirmation which gave directions and location of key safe. We had to use the code number on all 6 key safes to find which apartment was ours. It was only then that we found we had been duped by Skyes marketing literature and found the actual location. Cars for the other apartments are parked right up against the Duplex lounge window. Also, the rear entrance which provides access for residents and pets to the other 5 apartments in the building is next to the Duplex. As you would expect then the Duplex lacks any privacy and is very noisy at times. We had the blinds closed all the time. The lack of privacy is further compounded by the bedroom windows of the Miners Convalescent building next door where bedroom windows look directly into the Duplex master bedroom. As a result we decided to use the other bedroom. The bedrooms were too small for the furniture in them, for example the wardrobe door in the master bedroom could only be partially opened restricting access to clothing in it. As you might agree, we were not very pleased with the apartment when we arrived, nor at the way Sykes had misrepresented the true nature the Duplex in their sales material, so rang them immediately to request alternative accommodation. The response was completely negative and we were told "we did not say the apartment had a view"! But then Sykes didn't say it was located in the car park either. Trading Standards might be interested in this one. Given the location, lack of privacy and cramped accommodation upstairs the apartment is grossly overpriced. I would not recommend the Duplex at anyone, and as this is the second holiday apartment we book through Sykes this year were they were unable to resolve problems, I would not recommend Sykes to anyone either.”