Oh so broken Crystal Blyde Balwin Lagoon
The Blyde Balwin Crystal Lagoon 122/1252
The unit is marketed with images of a quiet, safe and pleasant haven or “tranquil ” as described in marketing material. Since that was what we were looking for, we booked and paid upfront. However, on inspection, we found the development to be noisy and overcrowded. We also find that the estate has long-term residents and short-term guests, each with very different lifestyles.
We immediately requested a refund on grounds of the misrepresentation. The owner or agent tried to convince us that the estate was not noisy, crowded or unsafe. We clearly stated that we will not check-in and demanded a refund.
On further investigation we found that the noise, overcrowding and security issues are well-documented:
THE SOUTH AFRICAN. Blyde beach bust-up: Balwin blasts lagoon guests for 'gross abuse of rules'. 20 Sep 2021. The article quoted the developer´s statement: “Balwin has been inundated with complaints from residents regarding overcrowding of the lagoon area by guests from the short term letting apartments as well as the fact that residents do not feel safe and secure within the development – which is of great concern for all stakeholders.” SUNDAY TIMES. The Blyde River Walk: Inside the nasty dispute at this Gauteng 'coastal' estate. 26 Sep 2021. The article reports that estate f” aces complaints of noise and partying”. ENCA (YOUTUBE). Blyde Riverwalk Estate. Trouble brewing at the luxury estate. 23 Sep 2021. The video emphasizes the turmoil at the “tranquil” estate, and especially regarding the short-stay guests.
CITY PRESS. It is like a hostel. Thabo Mtsweni. The article sketch a picture of a once peaceful lifestyle disrupted by the ”chaos” of partying and overcrowding. And the fight between those that want the tranquil estate that they invested in and those that want to maintain the current status quo.
Booking.com appealed to the owner/agent to refund us, but without any success. I do not recommend this option for a peaceful and safe stay.