Carpe Diem Timeshare Nightmare...help!

budster2003

Hi all,
I have tonight found out that my parents had signed up to a timeshare system through Carpe Diem during their stay in Tenerife last year. They had mentioned nothing to us, i guess through embarrasment, but tonight have told us all about it. Basically, they were approached with a scratch card and were told if they had won go somewhere to claim the prize which they did. Don't know all the ins and outs but basically they would get cheap holidays and flights which appealed to them as their eldest daughter had recently moved to NZ.They were asked to pay a £2000 deposit up front. Once they returned to England, contact with the company continued. They Transferred over their final balance of £12000 in October and have since heard nothing. They have tried calling them but it says there is a problem with the phone line. After searching on the net, it appears its a complete scam and lots of people have fallen into the trap. The company have now gone into liquidation...although typically started up another comany with a different name!!!
Does anyone know/have any suggestions for them to get their money back? I'm guessing there is nothing they can do, just feel so bad for them...i think its disgusting people can get away with it!
Your advice would be much appreciated
x

AndysDad

Sorry to hear your tale of woe.We have just come back from Tenerife and as you mention the place is still full of scratch-card touts.We were talking to another couple who had been on a 'Carpe Diem' promo, so reckon they are still around somewhere in Torviscos.They also said it was a very high pressure presentation and were glad to get out. I think your only chance is to contact their cc company but fear too much time has lapsed since the transaction took place.Its a pity they didn't tell you about it when it happened.Good luck.