Le Domaine des Fonds Blancs

3 years ago

Dear Travelers, I stayed at Domaine des Fonds Blancs in February 2023 and was scammed by the owners, Pierre-Jean Gouyer and Coralie de La Houssaye. Summary of events: Having already stayed there with a group of friends in 2019, and being originally from Martinique myself, I decided to return to visit my family, as I do regularly. It's also important to note that the estate comprises two villas: Villa Coralie, the smaller one, and Villa Isabelle, the larger one with nine bedrooms. Based on the information displayed on their website, both villas offer relatively similar amenities (each villa has its own pool, private dock, can accommodate a chef, etc.). Since I only needed three bedrooms, I booked Villa Coralie. My only request was for a private chef for the duration of my stay. However, a few days before my arrival, the owners tried to convince me to rent Villa Isabelle, citing a supposed lack of space for the chef services I had booked. This contradicted the information on their website, which guaranteed this service regardless of the villa chosen. I declined their offer, seeing no point in paying more for extra space I didn't need. Finally, the day before my arrival, the concierge at Domaine des Fonds Blancs sent a message confirming that I would be "upgraded," meaning I would get the larger villa for the price of the smaller one, which, of course, didn't bother me at all (quite the opposite!). Upon arriving at the estate, I discovered that Villa Coralie, which I had originally booked, was already occupied by a charming North American couple. I don't need to spell out the underhanded scheme the owners were trying to pull here; I found it rather dishonest, but I said nothing since I wasn't going to pay any extra anyway. Upon my return to Dubai, I was utterly shocked to discover that my security deposit had been reduced by €3,250. The owners claim this sum represents the price difference between the two villas; however, i) not only did I never agree to pay more for another villa (I only have a contract for Villa Coralie), but ii) their own contract prohibits them from deducting any price difference from a returned security deposit. Faced with this unfair situation, I demanded further explanation. Coralie de la Houssaye then displayed remarkable courage and vanished, ignoring both calls and messages. I am now in contact with Pierre-Jean Gouyer, who informs me that after reviewing a mysterious, unseen file, he unfortunately cannot return my money. According to his file, I supposedly said upon arrival that I was happy with the large villa, which apparently gives him a legitimate right to keep my money! He then offered me a credit towards my next stay at their exceptional villa. And yes... this gentleman certainly has a sense of humor! I therefore want to warn you against these unscrupulous owners who believe they are above the law, in addition to having a very keen business sense (stealing a few thousand euros from a repeat customer who brings back a few thousand each time they visit—bravo, champions!). These people aren't interested in giving you a memorable tourist experience; they're just there to bleed you dry to maintain a property they clearly struggle to take responsibility for. Hugo Pingray, A disgruntled traveler

10 years ago

A luxurious villa right on the oceanfront with breathtaking views. Superb amenities, especially the enormous kitchen. Peace and quiet guaranteed.

9 years ago

The property is very well maintained, with beautiful suites. The staff is truly lovely. It feels like a dream.

5 years ago

Absolutely magnificent 😍😍

4 years ago

#ODMARTINIQUE