Bulgaria Ski discussion board

Just had a letter from Crystal stating that they have reduced the Rila hotel and studios down from a 4 rating to a 3 plus.

When I called Crystal they stated that 2 years ago development work took place and this was the reason for upgrading, that was 2 years back and nothing has happened since, hence the reason to reduce!?

Is there any truth in this statement as to me it sounds a bit loaded?

This will be our first family ski holiday and although I appreciate the accommodation may be basic I need it to be half decent to convince the wife that a ski holiday can easily replace a sun holiday!!

Crystal have given us the option to change with no admin fee but we would need to pay the difference if the new choice was more expensive.

We only paid £1850 for 2 adults and 2 children, this was half board, flights, ski lessons, passes and equipment - seems like a cracking deal to me?

So if there is anyone with the knowledge who could offer friendly advice then please let me know.

I would have to say that in all the time I have visited Bansko - >20 times and over a period of 6-7 years, I have stayed in accomodation which has food included once.

Now brekkie was ok and evening meal was ok too.

But then we ate out and discovered the real food of the area was like. Eating out in more upper end places and also the very traditional local venues. I'd have to say the more rugged / locals venues were by far the best. Great food great fun and always had a laugh with the others.

As far as downgrading - no idea. If I paid or a 5 star but then the accomodation was downgraded to 4 star I'd be wanting a reduction in price regardless of what I paid.

We stay at luckyBansko which (I have a vested interest) find a really nice place & also Pirin Golf (I have a vested interest) again its a really nice place lots o facilities great SPA and lots of places to eat.

I think also that sometimes too much importance is placed on star ratings and they are not always relevant as to whether you will have a good holiday. To acheive the next star up (for our place) we would need to provide trouser presses, ironing boards (in each apartment) etc plus other things. None of which we feel is necessary in a ski apartment and all are available on request if required. In addition, the greater star rating means that we would need to pay additional tax so we have opted for the lower star rating.
Does this affect the quality of the apartments or the overall enjoyment of the guests on holiday? Not at all!