Dynamic holiday in an exotic setting – Rated 9/10
The hotel offers very good services, an impressive reception area, very spacious rooms, and terraces facing the beach (we stayed on the ground floor). The minibar was replenished regularly, and towels were changed daily.
The food was of very good quality and quite varied. Both soft and alcoholic drinks were good, including those served at the beach bar. The desserts were the best we have ever had in an all-inclusive resort, with authentic and diverse flavors, clearly influenced by French and perhaps Italian cuisine. Ice cream was available at all times and suited our taste perfectly.
Complimentary water sports activities were available and we took advantage of them: pedal boats, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat trips. The senior staff were attentive and eager to help, resolving any minor issues promptly. The gym was excellent.
Live music every evening at the beach restaurant or at the main restaurant.
Weaknesses and areas for improvement:
By far the most serious issue was the sea. The water was filled with very large stones. If you are looking for a hotel mainly for its pool, despite being 7,000 km from home, this is a good choice. However, if your intention is to swim, relax in the sea, or snorkel, you should clearly consider another hotel. The seabed resembled a stone quarry, and entering the water was extremely difficult, regardless of footwear, with a real risk of injury. A nearby hotel, just 100 meters away, had significantly better access to the sea.
There was no foot-washing station when leaving the beach, so it was often unavoidable to bring sand into the room.
In the restaurant, although the service staff was numerous, they were often inefficient and disorganized, frequently walking around with empty trays. At times, intervention from supervisors was required to resolve simple situations.
We also experienced a first for an all-inclusive resort: after every meal, we were asked to sign a bill with a zero value. This felt inappropriate for a five-star hotel and suggested a lack of trust in the staff.
The city tax (which we had been assured would not be charged separately) amounted to €3 per person per night. This seemed unjustified, especially considering that the town lacked even basic infrastructure, such as sidewalks along the main road, where cars passed at high speed, creating a constant sense of danger. There were no benches or places to rest. When paying €2,600 per person, such an additional charge does not feel appropriate.
Overall, it was an excellent stay in a hotel with very good services. The minor inconveniences did not significantly affect our overall impression. We felt very well, also took part in excursions, and found the island to be beautiful. The cultural and religious mix is unique and fascinating. The coexistence of French and English influences was particularly striking and likely unique in the world.
Flo A2026-04-25
