Travel Blogger Left Totally Stranded After Shocking Revelation That Egyptian Hotel Was a Complete Hoax..
A travel blogger was left “totally stranded” after discovering that the hotel he booked in Egypt didn’t exist. On August 18, 2024, Mark Jeavons, 43, arrived at the Pyramids and Sphinx View Hotel in Giza, only to find an empty alley instead of the promised accommodation.
Mark had planned a four-night stay for his solo adventure but ended up searching for emergency lodging. His experience highlights the risks of booking hotels online without verifying their existence.
Key takeaways:
- Traveler booked a non-existent hotel in Giza, Egypt.
- Mark Jeavons faced difficulties finding alternative accommodation.
- Booking.com removed the hotel listing after complaints.
- Online reviews can sometimes mislead travelers.
Travel Blogger Stranded After Booking Non-Existent Hotel in Egypt
Mark Jeavons, an English teacher from Wolverhampton, was excited for his trip to Egypt. He booked a stay at the Pyramids and Sphinx View Hotel, advertised at £40-per-night. However, upon arrival, he found no hotel at the address provided. Instead, he was met with an empty back alley, leaving him stranded in a foreign country.
How to Avoid Hotel Booking Scams When Traveling
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, travelers should take certain precautions when booking hotels online. Here are some tips to avoid scams:
- Check multiple review sites for feedback.
- Look for verified listings with clear contact information.
- Use reputable booking platforms with customer support.
- Consider booking hotels that require a deposit.
Mark’s Experience and How He Resolved It
After realizing the hotel did not exist, Mark wandered the streets of Giza for over an hour. Eventually, he found emergency accommodation at The Sun and Sand Hotel. This last-minute booking cost him more than double what he had planned to spend. Despite the rocky start, Mark managed to enjoy his trip, visiting the pyramids and taking a hot air balloon ride over Luxor.
Booking.com’s Response to the Incident
Following Mark’s complaint, Booking.com acknowledged the issue and stated they were investigating the situation. They removed the hotel from their listings, indicating that they take such matters seriously. This incident underscores the importance of customer feedback in maintaining the integrity of travel platforms.
For more travel tips and experiences, visit Mark’s travel blog at MJ Travel Guides.
