Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Internet - July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : 40's
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The food is typical of somewhere that is catering for all ages and nationalities, however we found the hot food was cold and the choice uninspiring. No problem getting a table, only had to queue on Sundays.
The pool was fine, plenty of sunbeds, except Sundays when the hotel gets very busy with locals.
The building work was still going on and will be for quite a while and yes, it is noisy and all day and yes, it did get irritating.
We found the rooms clean and comfortable, but the lifts too small and infrequent, with some waiting time.
The reception staff were unhelpful and unco-operative, and they lacked local knowledge. Also, their English is limited which is also frustrating.
It was cheaper to hire a car than pay for transfers to and from the airport and it was the easiest car hire we've encountered, no problems at all. Be warned, park only in proper bays, there are no signs to say it will be towed and ours was! Excellent seafood restaurants in Calpe, we tended not to eat in Bendiorm (all English pubs/restaurants, chips etc with live coverage of soaps) We wanted to get away to a real Spanish fishing village, that was not too touristy. Very enjoyable holiday.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Media Travel - February 2007
Opinion submitted in February 2007 by : kelvin and pauline britton ( 53 )
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from a fabulous break in benidorm. Was a bit apprehensive from reading previous reviews but was pleasantly surprised by the value for money at this hotel. In short we could not fault the hotel or polite friendly staff especially the reception ladies laura and stella who were always pleased to help. Yes the hotel is situated on a slight hill but not a problem as lots of bars etc to stop on the way down. there is a free bus service every half hour to the beach and old town untill 10 pm stopping right outside and pick up near burger king at the sea front.The meals buffet style was great varied hot and always fresh, with no hassle from the staff eating was a joy.We choose the hotel because of the indoor pool, sauna and gym which was free with towels provided. this facility was spot on. ideal for the winter break. The hotel had some kind of entertainment but we regularly dropped down the hill to a cluster of bars " the triangle " the white horse did a 2 for 1 until 9.30 so eating and drinking out is very cheap.
We can recommend the hotel at the end of lavante beach for a great winter break, definately consider coming again ++++
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: sept 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : denise 53,vicky 29,josh 2
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
hi just got back from benidorm my favourite destination always something to do or see.
stayed at the palm beach this time,brochure says up an incline try 3 hills nightmare with a buggy, the hotel had alot of older spanish couples whowere very rude and groups of spanish school kids that ran wild,not ideal.
the hotel it self very nice but wouldnt stay there again, food ok,staff lovely and helpful,my son had a fall and they couldnt of helped enough.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Last minute.com - August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : LJ - Manchester (35,44)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed at the Palm Beach Hotel for a week in late August 2006 after booking a cheap DIY holiday. The total cost for 2 was £450 including insurance, flights (bmibaby) and transfers (resorthopper, brill service) and we had a great time. The hotel was spotless with very friendly staff. I had previously read the reviews on here and was dubious about cardiac hill and although steep and not for the faint hearted, we managed it fine with a pit stop at Vonneys bar both ways, where a pint was 1 Euro so to be honest we didnt always remember the last steepest climb to the hotel on the way home!!. During the day we used the free bus which came every 30 mins and took you to the beach, 10 mins walk away. The hotel clientel is predominantly spanish but more English guests arrived later in the week. The food was good but again aimed at the Spanish but there was always something you could eat. I was also wary of the building work which is right behind the hotel but we never heard it once. There was good air conditioning and the room was one of the best Ive stayed in.
I would say the hotel is 4 star but the food 3 star and if I had to be negative about anything it would have been better if it was more central or at least flat terrain. I will be returning to Benidorm again next year and will be booking the Sol Pelicanos (my favourite) if I can get it reasonable but failing that I would stay at the Palm Beach again as for the money it was very good.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - April 2006
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : Janice Mccann - ( 57,63)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned home from our second visit to the Palm Beach, our first visit was in November. Then there was nothing we could find fault with.
This time we have seen it in a different light.
The main complaint that I want to make you aware of is that this is a hotel that takes block bookings which can be,as was in our case, hundreds of 15-18year old totally unsupervised Portuguese youngsters who took over the public areas during the day and evening. At night on at least one occasion the police had to be called because they were rioting.
That was the first week. Second week there were 3 groups of under-sixteen football teams from 3 different countries.
The second point is that in November the service bus offered an excellent service that was reliable, now that has changed and not for the better. It is much less frequent and a far less reliable, not so good if you are older or have young children.
The food and cleanliness are still good, will we be going back a third time, NO
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: DIY October 2005
Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : Martin Williams 41 31 2
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
After reading several reviews of this hotel on many sites I was expecting a 4 star hotel that was situated up a slight hill.This is not what I found. The hotel is a very average 3 star hotel up a very steep hill.
We are neither disabled nor elderly and found the hill to be an absolute nightmare.
There is massive building work being carried out behind the hotel which starts at 8 and finishes at 5 every day except sunday.
The rooms are clean but very basic, the air con is very noisy.
Food was ok but not very impressive, they did not cater for children unless you are happy for them to eat chips all the time.We ate out most of the time.
There are no tea making facilities in the rooms.
I would not go back to this hotel again nor recommend it to anybody. Spend a bit more money and stay somewhere away from that nightmare hill.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: findspainrooms--september 2005
Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : mal hobbs-barry (66,66,)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
we read that there would be some building work near by but we did not expect 3 jack hammer machines at work from 8am till 7pm every day except sunday you could not sit out as the noise just got to you .
the hotel it self had avery grand foyer bedrooms were a bit small but clean,corridors very narrow needing new carpet ,dinning room pleasent staff very friendly,food was not 4 star not much choice on salad counter,hot food was warm plates cold the sweet counter choice was the same every day .the bar served happy hour from 8pm till 9pm but only on shorts we used to stay in there till 12pm but never seen any shows only a d j playing records this was closed if they had a wedding which was twice while staying there ,the hotel is on a steep hill with no shops or bars near. there was afree bus down to the town. to walk up and down the hill you needed to be a mountain goat our stay was for three weeks as you can guess we wont be going back.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Hayes & Jarvis Direct) Hayes Travel september 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Joyce Dixon South Shields (68,65,47,43,42,40,21,18,15,
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned a party of 17from the Palm Beach after a weeks holiday.
The Hotel is very clean, the food very good most of the time the staff not so good (ok if you are Spanish who appear to be the main users of this Hotel and take over when they have any weddings etc then the poolside and bar areas are a no go area for any other holiday makers)The Hotel is not on a steep bank it is up a mountain well thats how it felt if you tried to walk back after a visit to the beach etc,yes the taxis are cheap but can cost a lot if you use them every day as we did.Entertainment was there any ? only Spanish music on the terrace, Good job we were in Benidorm at least you could keep the children entertained,We have been to Benidorm loads of times but would never use this hotel again ok if you want a quiet boring holiday and like mountain climbing.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Cosmos Discounts) Cosmos July 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Julie Mal Lee 42 38 12
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Benidorm is a really big resort so choose your Hotel location with thought.
We booked this holliday off the tv and found it a bit trashing walking up and down the hill to the beach and pubs every day and night.Although this hotel for us was to far out the way it was only 5 euros to aqua land and mundamar in the taxi which the hotel rang for.In our opinion if we do go back to Benidorm we would stay in the old town much nicer near dove park and then just walk along the prom to go to the busy square.In my opinion the hotel should only be 3star . Clean rooms food okay could have been a bit hotter though.poolarea fine afew games for kids. entertainment on night all in spanish.
We would not go back to this hotel mainly due to the location.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: A1 Travel-March 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Debbie Holdship-Manchester 41,47,7
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Booked this holiday as a last minute through A1 Travel for 1 weeks stay for my 7 year olds birthday.
Got to the hotel which I believed to be up a steep hill,well I wouldnt call it a steep hill but the top of a building site is more appropiate.The reception area was quite impressive and the lobby also very nice.This was to be spoilt as soon as we entered the bedroom.Very basic indeed,not what I would call a 4* rating atall.Rooms were very cold as no heating on in the corridors outside the rooms.
As my 7 year old daughter walked into the bathroom she was horrified to find a dead Cockroach in the bath. As I got up in the night and went into the bathroom,hey presto another Cockroach,this time very alive.Maybe these little creatures had been disturb by the building work going on around the hotel.
The one thing we were very anoid about is the fact that the hotels pool had be emptied completely!!!No water in sight and workmen laying cement around the pool area, this obviously ruled out any hopes of sunbathing around the pool area or for that matter a swim in the pool itself.
Food was very basic,more like eating in a cafe not a restaurant.
Only stayed here for 1 night and then requested a move to another hotel we we had visited whilst we were there.Agents in Benidorm were very helpfull indeed and got us moved to the Hotel Don Pancho,we only had to pay the differance but we were willing to do this to get out of the Palm Beach.Would however recomend the Don Pancho beaufiful hotel indeed.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Fleetway Travel - 2005
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Oakes - Mersesyside
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Booked a 4 day break in Benidorm for my 30th Birthday for me and a mate!
We had an excellent time but for 2 lads wanting to just go on the beer and be daft, we picked the wrong time of year. It was cold and full of Senior members of the population. We had a great time anyway!
Hotel - It is located on a hill, but it is staggered if you walk up Londres Avenue which has Faulty Towers Bar (opposite indoor Market)this is a small incline, the last 75metres on the next hill is a killer. Even we couldnt manage it at night, but that is when under the influence!!
I must agree with other reviews, the Grand entrance to the hotel makes you think it is going to be far more superior to anything you could ever stay in but then you get upstairs and you go along grubby corridors to your room that have orange curtains covering the windows so you cant see what is behind hotel!!! All rooms have an impressive view but not 4 star!Very Basic.
The food was awful, we ate there to save our beer money but it was greasy, limited and repetitive. Only made Breakfast on last day, for obvious reasons, which repeated on me all the way to manchester!!!
It is not a hotel where you meet people or have the crack with staff, it is more like going to a London Hotel,but for the Spanish.
I wouldn't say avoid the place, but 2 weeks of Greasy food and the Hill would have drove me mad!
For 2 lads on a boozy weekend it was a bed!
Would have needed the taxi back at night regardless of the hill.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson - DECEMBER 2004
Opinion submitted in Dec 2004 by : Mel & Chris Smith - Skeggy (49, 48)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Found the apartments to be clean and tidy, but the bathroom in 406 was very small.
The staff were very pleasant, friendly and helpful, especially Dean, Charlie and Carlos.
The weather was not the best the weekend we stayed there, sun in the afternoon, wind and rain at other times.There appeared to be no heating in the apartments which made them quite cold when the sun was not out. In addition, the tin panels on the enclosed balcony vibrated noisily due to the effects of the wind and a lack of wooden cross support battens.
As it was quite cold at night we spent the three evenings we were there in the friendly company of Geordie, the other guests and of course Dean and Charlie in the residents bar.
The apartments are situated at the top of The Square and I am sure the area is most lively in the peak months as Sinatras, Champians and many other clubs and bars are only a stones throw away( not too close to be a problem though). There are numerous places to eat and we can recommend the Indian restaurant opposite and the food at the bar at the top of the road next to the Mariscal IV & V (sorry forgot the name but the Sunday roast was first class - 5.50euros).
Would certainly recommend the Palm Court, but in the summer.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - September 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Paul & Debbie - Barnsley (23,28)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
PALM BEACH HOTEL, BENIDORM
SAT 25 SEPT - SAT 02 OCT 2004
We have just returned from a fantastic holiday at the Palm Beach Hotel. We paid £250 for a 7 day stay on a half board basis.
Location - As we climbed the hill to the hotel for the first time on the coach we were worried that we would have to get a taxi back to the hotel all the time as it seemed quite steep. At first we were worried about the location but after our first venture out we ended up really pleased. The hill to the hotel across from the indoor market is more of a steady incline. It is very easy to walk up, it doesn't hurt the back of your legs and doesn't seem like a hill at all. There are plenty of shops on the incline and some decent bars such as the Yorkshire Pride 2 and the Stretford End. The final 70 yards or so to the hotel is steeper, it is a small hill and it makes you glad that the whole of the journey up isn't as steep!
Overall, the incline to the hotel never caused us any problems but I would imagine it could cause some older people more problems BUT the hotel provides a free return bus service from outside the hotel down into Benidorm. You simply collect your tickets from reception, buses are every half an hour. Surrounding the hotel are other apartments and residential blocks. The Palm Beach has quite a privileged location as it overlooks Benidorm. The area is quiet and clean. Their were some light building works to the rear of the hotel but these never caused any problems and the only noise was in the background during the day.
Room - The rooms are quite compact and utilise space well. The bathroom is set in marble and tiles and has a large bath with a powerful shower, a nice marble sink area with large mirror, hair dryer, b-day and toilet. The hotel provides you with a basket full of complimentary shower gel, shampoo, soap etc. The bedroom area is nicely decorated; ours had 2 large separate beds, bedside table, drawers/cupboards, large wardrobe with plenty of hangers, colour tv with news/sport channels and a very useful chilled mini-bar that was stocked with beers, water, soft drinks, chocolate, snacks etc. Prices were very reasonable for the items inside however, we preferred to purchase our own drinks (soft drinks and bottled beers) from the supermarket and chill them in the mini-bar as their was plenty of free space. The room was air conditioned effectively. You could control the heat and speed from warm to cold with 3 speed settings.
All rooms overlook the pool. We were on the 6th floor and we had a really nice view over the pool and down into Benidorm. The balcony was a decent size with a table and 2 chairs and extendable washing line. One word of warning though, check the plastic balcony chairs before you sit on them as unfortunately one afternoon I was sitting on one and it started to creak until it broke beneath me and I ended up on the floor! I'm not particularly overweight but the chairs weren't very strong so we used one of the wooden chairs from our room instead!!! The maid came every day, made the beds and changed towels. You had to put your towels in the bath if you required them changing, this was to cut down on environmental damage. Good idea. Overall, the rooms were very clean, just the right size and had everything we required.
Hotel - The hotel was spotless throughout and very impressive with a lot of marble, statues etc. The entrance was particularly impressive. Reception staff were very helpful and friendly and always efficient. The hotel has a small shop that stocks newspapers, souvenirs etc. 3 lifts to all floors, never took long to arrive although maybe they would be busy at restaurant opening times. A safety deposit box is available near reception in a safety room. You pay 3 euros deposit which is refundable and approx 10 euros for a week. Reception give you a key that opens the safety room door and also opens your safety deposit box along with your own key. This safety room is quite a good idea buy maybe a little more inconvenient than having a box in your own room.
Guests at the hotel included British, Spanish, German and Dutch. It seemed their were many Spanish staying at the hotel and some were even using the wedding function rooms which maybe proves that this is a good hotel as otherwise the Spanish wouldn't stay there. Not many families were staying at the hotel, mainly couples.
Pool - The hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool. We never used the indoor pool but it does look nice. The outdoor pool was excellent. It wasn't a giant lagoon pool but just the right size in a circular sort of shape with palm trees in the middle, a bridge and shallow ends. It was always very clean, the water was cold but you got used to it after a minute or so! Their were plenty of sunbeds available around the pool , the green ones are better as they are adjustable. You could borrow towels from reception if needed. You could sunbathe either by the pool-side or on the grass surrounded by palm trees. There is a pool-side bar that serves drinks and snacks at usual pool-side bar prices! The cheese and ham toasties are very nice! Shower and toilet facilities are available.
Food/Restaurant - The restaurant is large and their were always plenty of tables available. It is very well air conditioned and we didn't sit at a table once that was too hot or uncomfortable. Waiter service is efficient and you pay your drinks bill when you leave the restaurant. All the staff seemed very pleasant. Whilst we were there breakfast was served 8-11am and tea 7:30-10:30pm but during the winter times change to one hour earlier. Breakfast was very varied and included full English, Cereals, toast, meats/hams, fruit juices and even Bucks Fizz! The evening meal was also quite varied. You always had a choice of around 5 or 6 main courses as well as fish every night. Sometimes their were chefs specials such as carved off the joint ham (yummy) and a choice of pastas and sauces cooked and served by the chef while you wait (again, yummy!). Main courses included steak, spicy pork ribs (these were VERY nice), chicken, Paella, Ghoulash, etc along with chips/potatoes, rice, vegetables (although I would have liked to have seen more vegetables), cold meats, cheeses, salad, bread etc etc. Desserts included Profiteroles, Ice Cream and a good selection of cakes as well as lovely fresh fruit.
Overall, we enjoyed all the food at the hotel. Their was always a good selection, my personal fave were the ribs mmmm! The food was always hot and we never had any problems with the temperature of it. It was always cooked well too.
Bars/Entertainment - We never visited the hotel main bar once so couldn't comment on the entertainment at all.
Overall, we had a fantastic time staying at the Palm Beach Hotel. It was a lot better than what we expected. The rooms, food and pool were all great. The location was nice and the slope to the hotel wasn't as bad as we thought it would be. In fact, the position and area of the hotel was nice and quiet. We would definitely return to this hotel and would look to book it again the next time we visit Benidorm.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Booked Through Internet - Aug 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Willmett - Swansea (48,46,17,6)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked this holiday seperate. We booked our flight with BMI-BABY and then book the hotel on the internet. This worked out to be alot cheaper. We only paid £25 per person for the flights.
When we got to the airport we were told that there was an hour delay, which turned out to be 2 hours. A very rough flight over to alicante lots of turblance seet belts kept on most of the time.
When we arrived at alicante all the bags came very quickly and we went to find a taxi. The taxi cost us about 55 euros.
It was late when we arrived at the hotel so couldn't really have a good look around but from outside all looked great.
When we got to our rooms they were quite basic nothing like their website
imaginadesign net/webs/palbbeach/gb/presentacion html.
The rooms have 2 single beds pushed together, but were quite nice to sleep in. Also the rooms have a tele with SKY NEWS and EURO SPORT on, (well thats the only english channels anyway). Also the is a mini bar there with beer,coke,water,vodka,chocolate,nuts,ect.
We took all them out and put them down the side and put all out drinks in the mini bar instead. All the balconys over look the pool and all have a great view. The air con in the rooms was very good especially if your there in the summer, it takes a while to warm up (as such), but every night i would wake up shivering and need more sheets or put more clothes on to get back to sleep.
Breakfast:-
Well you cant really go wrong with breakfast every thing is there that your want. Buffet style so you can have what you like.
The hotel has a full board option but as we were half board i cant comment on the food for dinner.
Lunch:-
The first 3 days you couldnt fault the food very hot and a good verity, but after that it was cold and very boring the same thing all the time. Even the desert was wrong and how can you muck up a fruit salad! We ate out the last 3 days of your holiday. Great chinesse just up from the tavern in the shape of a ship.
Pool was great, nice and cold but not too cold either. Plenty of sunbeds but dont reserve them. The life gard will take them off the beds, and fold them and put them on a table, so if you do reserve your beds make sure someone is down the pool before 10am when the pool opens and the life gard comes.
The night life in benidorm is great, whether your in your teens or an OAP, but not to great for little kids. As the night goes on the acts get worse for kids, great for you but not for little ones. A great place to go is Sandras and you gotta watch mike curtis, comedian he was so funny he is there at 11 every night. Also the Zodiak was really good to. Benidorm is full of comedians, and alot of them tell the same jokes. And also dont go and watch the same act twice and the repeat them selfs every time.
At the end of the holiday we asked if we could have a late check out of our room as we weren't even leaving the hotel till 9:30 pm. Put was told that the hotel was full. And it was full of spanish and portugeese. Onlt spoke to one other british family.
When we got to the airport we were told the there was a delay of 30 mins, which turned out to be 1 hour 30 mins.
Cant wait till next year to go nack to benidorm but will not be stayng at the palm beach hotel.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Budget Travel - july 24th 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : M. Butters N.Ireland 39,37, 14, 42, 38, 8, 72
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel is spotless, BUT our room was small, food was always cold, more or less the same thing to eat every morning and evening. The staff we found were very arogant, not in the slightest bit friendly. In the wk we were there, we met only 4 British couples the rest were Spanish. Entertainment CR*P it was all in Spanish. First and Last time we will ever be in Benidorm, mostly due to this Hotel.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (JMC Discounts) JMC - July 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Zoe Young (20, 23)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Benidorm revealed itself as cheap, trashy, but most of all tacky, particularly in the Lavante area. The old town was somewhat more upmarket with trendier shops and restaurants. The beaches were nice however with a good range of watersports and both Terra Miticca and aqualandia were worth a visit. Nightlife for british visitors sleazy neon hell, with clubs little music variety other than trance. Try hippodrome for some real clubbin music, where they play hip hop and r & b.
Palm Beach although supposedly a 4 star hotel is closer to a 3 star due to poor standards of food- bland, boring, and repetitive and often COLD. Rooms and pool too small in comparison to the grandeur of the hotel. Overall over rated and nothing special, honestly not worth the bother.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Cosmos Discounts) Cosmos - June 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Angela Smith - Staffordshire (47, & 47):
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have just arrived back from my holiday at the Palm Beach Hotel ,Benidorm. I felt that I must share my disapointment with others , and tell them not to go there if at all possible.
What a let down!! My husband and myself had been to Benidorm before on two occations and enjoyed our stay. This time we booked a late deal," Hot offer 4* half board", we thought that we could not go wrong, flight times were great.
However,the next day, at 10.00 am,building work began right at at the rear of the hotel, and to the right hand side. This was not just banging, it was drilling, they were excavating rock from the hills, also,there was not only one drill, there were at least four!!!. This would go on until 7.45 every night. Due to this noise we felt that we had to stay away from the Hotel all day.
The food was rubbish, totally bland,cold and greasy. The only good thing about this Hotel is that it is very clean.
Benidorm is very tacky in parts, and has gone downhill over the last two years,it looks very shabby and tired.
This holiday has put us off Benidorm, which is a shame as we did have some good holidays there in the past, i am sorry to say that we will not be going back.
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Palm Beach Hotel - Benidorm
Operator and Date: FlyGlobespan May 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : North East (39,38)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Booked pretty last minute to go to Benidorm with Flyglobespan. Firstly the journey was excellent with this operator, flights spot on time, and the cabin crew very good. This was our first time to Benidorm and i can recommend it for all age ranges. The resort is suitable for all age groups, lots to do, loads of entertainment etc. The beaches are clean and we saw them being cleaned every day. Eating/drinking out is cheap and plentiful. Transport around the resort is also cheap and easy although we did hire a car for the week as we like to explore in our own time.
The hotel is on a hill at the back of the resort but this really isn't a problem. 5 mins walk down and 10 mins up, or use the free bus service every 30 mins. The hotel looks impressive inside and out and the whole hotel was spotlessly clean. There are a few problems however, firstly there is some building work to the rear of the hotel that you can hear but never woke us up or caused problems. Our air-conditioning in the room was poor and we where hot at night (and that's in May), the hotel told us it was working correctly so that's a worry for a summer visit.
The food was of an excellent quality but was sometimes cold. There was champagne for breakfast if you wanted it and all of the meal times where excellent (7.30 - 10.30 for breakfast and 18.30 - 21.30 for dinner). Drinks in the hotel are not expensive and overall i would recommend the hotel (especially if the air-con gets sorted out !) Hope this helps anyone who is thinking of a visit.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- March 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Eileen & Brian Glasgow (43, 37.)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Recently returned from a weeks stay at these apartments. On arrival the coach drops you a short walking distance from the entrance. The reception staff are friendly, efficent and helpfull. A deposit of 60 euros is required in case of damages.Safe deposit box key requres deposit also. On entering our room it was spotlessly clean. However the decor and furniture is rather dated and gives a dull appearance to the room.The kitchen area has more than adequate equipment if you intend cooking.The bathroom and bedroom areas were fine with no complaints. Plenty of storage areas.
The pool area is large with a good pool, kids splash area and bar. The front bar staffed by Gary and Josie has a friendly relaxed atmosphere and they are both a mine of information of whats happening around Benidorm and the best places to be. They also serve food from early to late.Benidorm has plenty to offer everyone with good pubs and clubs with some fantastic entertainment from comedians, tribute singers to the dreaded BINGO.
All in all these apartments are central to all the Biz, clean and friendly. This is not the Ritz and does not portray itself as this. We would certainly return to these apartments although we doubt Gary, Josie or Kevin will be too pleased to hear that. To say we kept the bar staff busy is an understatement!!!!!!!
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
june 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : 45 53 54 59
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
just back from palm court
one review said it was allright because they only paid pennies well we paid over 1000 ponds for 14 days the studio apt was small to say the least with windows in the balcony .
you could open the window but not much fresh air.the good part gary and josie who make the food at the pool bar are great cant do enough for you .the food is good breky great.then you have chris at the bar he's good also
dean at the kareoke if you cant get up to sing after him it's a bad day.
the sun does not get to the pool to about 12 oclock because of a building next door but have a lie in if you wish there are no problems with sunbeds
go to tommys just up and to the left for cheap drink and entertain ment
sit down and let lee bring the drink to you.
go into the old town its lovely and the beach is beutifull.
visit o, marras for good food and drink.
only for the rooms the holiday was great
and cheap for drink and clothes.
would i go back to these apts?
maybe if they cut the price.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
MARCH 2006
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : SHELLEY GLEDHILL LANCS ( 24, 5, 50, 51)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Rooms- at first sight the apartments looked ok and once inside i was quite suprised after reading the reviews as there is a lovely reception area in marble and restaurant.
I can never complain really about the accommodation as we paid pennies for it. What can you expect?? There was 3 adults and a child of 5 but im glad we had 2 seperate rooms booked as theye are quite small and basic, but everything you need.
Wouldnt like to share 4 adults though think it would be a bit of a squeeze.
Rooms were quite basic but spotlessly clean. Our room was room 6104 and 6204 and had two seperate bath/shower rooms they are more of a large shower than a bath but if you like a bath you can sit up in it.
Was perfect for my 5 yr old son.
Pool looked lovely
the only bad thing was that the walls are paper thin!! You can hear almost everything in the rooms next to you and above you.
The apartments are located in the perfect place on the calle mallorca just a few seconds walk to the square and all thye nightlife
if you have kids the main attraction was phil the clown but has now been replaced by captain britain in "panchos" which my son loved
i can never fault benidorm as i go a few times each year. Perfect for those who love shopping and nightlife in the way of acts/comedians/singers etc
every bar has 5 or 6 acts on per night
the staff were very good never had a problem with deposits or anything like that.
I would definately return to these apartments not the best weve been in but at the money we paid i would def return if we got the same deal again
expect basic with good location and you wont be dissapointed
looking for 3 star*** plus luxury and you may be
had a great week here at the palm court
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson March 2006
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : Mark Gillian - Surrey (36, 44)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
On reading some of the other reviews for Palm Court I was a little concerned to say the least of what it would be like! I need not of worried...the apartment we had was VERY clean and although the living area is a bit small we had a very nice view from our balcony! The bar and reception staff were very friendly, namely Semo and Kevin! The food they sell at the bar is cheap enough and if cooked by Semo is very hot. We took our own towels and yes the ones they provide are on the small side. The sheets were in good condition(white cotton). It was a bit chilly in the bedroom but a small electric fire was supplied and the two rings that you cook on give out a fair bit of heat.It is very central to everywhere and no steep hills to climb!!
We would stay there again.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
february 2006
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : mr and mrs foster chester
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Not recommended. when my husband and i went out we dreaded going back it was so depressing.there is no heating the apartment was frezzing cold. they did after asking give us a small electric fire.the beds were like camp beds and the bed linen was disgusting smelly and cigerette burns.we called the rep to our apartment and she agreed she would not stay there.i can not understand anyone giving these apartments a good review.we could not wait to get home and into our nice clean bed.we are not posh but we do have standards.
i would definately not recommend anyone to stay there.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Yvonne - Manchester (39, 36, 6, 4)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Booked a last minute deal known as a pricebreaker where you are shown a selection of properties any of which you could end up in. Arrived in Benidorm and found we were allocated the Palm Court, although I don't recollect this being in the selection of properties presented to us when booking our holiday. The total cost of our two week holiday was £1376 but I had a discount code which reduced this to £1296 which I though was a relatively reasonable sum given it was high season.
Upon arrival at our accomodation we knew we had been had!!!! The accomodation looked pleasant enough from outside, however, there was no one on reception to greet us, we waited about 10 minutes before someone came to check us in - little wonder the Rep had abandoned us at the foot of the road. We arrived in our room which was on the fourth floor and the heat in the room slapped you in the face the moment you opened the door - with two small children this was not ideal particularly as my son is an asthmatic. Ahhh - the room if you could call it that - I have a bigger sitting room at home.
There were two shower rooms, one in the bedroom area and one in the living area, this was totally unnecessary as was the two balconies, neither of which were used as I have two small children, the smaller of the two thinking that the balcony railing was a climbing frame - needless to say the windows had to be kept locked - I spoke to the rep about moving us to a lower floor and was advised I could be moved two floors lower at an extra cost!!! To sum up the Palm Court was rather shabby and in my opinion wrongly rated as 3T - it is definately not a place for families rather a place for hen/stag parties at best.
I will not be revisiting this accomodation - also just bear in mind that you have to buy your own toilet rolls should you need to use the loo. Any self respecting family choosing a holiday will do well to steer clear of this place.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: September 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Ken - Bradford
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The rooms although a little basic were quite good.The kitchen area was very good.The staff at reception and front bar were always helpful.The rear pool bar and under cover eating area led out to quite a good area for lazing in the sun, there were plenty of sun beds. The food In the rear pool bar was excellent,not over expensive but always enjoyable and well presented. This bar was run by Gary and Josie,they worked hard and although at times they were rushed off there feet, they always had a smile on there faces. Everyone we talked to had a good word for Gary and Josie.
We had good weather and will be going back next year.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Thonpsom - Sept 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Mr & Mrs Emmerson
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Our 1st time in benidorm, arrived at the hotel at 01.00, The room very small, NO AIR CONDITION,( buy a fan) Sofa ciggy burns, beds shabby, two seperate balconys, enclosed, not a enough room to swing a cat, looking out of the window a massive palm tree, shower runs hot and cold beware it burns, Very noisey, we were given a quater of a toilet roll and we had to buy our own after that, as others had too, I would all so say its fire hazzards and to support this 1 door out of your room and like us if we had to get out of the balcony you have this massive palm tree and tiled floor at the bottom.
The local staff never greated you, infact on depature they make you feel realy small by counting all the equipment from spoons to the coat hangers, and BEWARE IF YOUR DONT GET RID OF YOUR RUBBISH YOU LOSE YOUR DEPOSIT, so they dont have to give you the deposit back, they never said welcome or have a good journey, would i stop there again, NO-NO-NO, my recomendation is we paid well over the price for what it is, so stay well clear.
We never seen a rep as now they had a different system in operation, we felt we were on our own.
But there are some nice place to eat and drink, Datoners on the sea front has some great acts on and it the best pint i had across there, rays chippys, best fish and chips,
last but least, I would go back to benidorm but not that hotel.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Sky Tours September 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Anderson (43,19,8,8)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have stayed in the palm court apartments before so knew what to expect. we were in room 104 which was agood size room, with two bathrooms, big enough for all of us. The rooms were clean but sofa bed not so big for two adults.
The staff were friendly and helpful, but not so keen on the kids running around, and they are not allowed anywhere without an adult. The bar staff at night were great.
The pool is good but doesnt have a shallow end for small children. The meals at the pool side bar were really nice and no more expensive than any where else. Benidorm itself i have been to many times and we love it. It was my 19yr old son first visit, and swears he is going back next year with his mates. has something for everyone.
The only bad part to the holiday, we extended check out to 6oclock (45euros)i packed up and left my cases and flight bag in my room. half way to the airport i discovered my jewelrey and purse was missing out of my bag, someone had been in our room on the last day and took them. i assume up and through balcony. there was no forced entry so i was not suspicious, and because i didnt report it to police im not insured. so be aware keep goods locked up in the safe until your ready to go.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Joanne McDonald (39,35,13,7)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Palm Court is in a not to bad location if your young free single & between 16 & 25. The noise coming from the square nearby was horendous, no air conditioning, the so called sofabed was filthy, burnt unfit for humans & stank of urine, the ants and cockroaches were just an added feature to the room.
First impressions on the accomodation was- oh my god what are we getting here! and i will tell you this - it didnt get any better in our opinion it was a flee pit and no place to take your children, its disgusting considering the amount of hard earned money we had to pay to get their,it was a nightmare from start to finish. The rooms in size would be ok for 2 people if you like ruffing it & absolutley no more than that!
The brochure says its self catering-you cant even consume your own goods at the pool because the`ve got you by the short & curlies saying you must buy from their poolside bar or you would be removed from the pool area (whats the point). It was high season and there wasnt enough beds for everybody at the pool.
The room we were staying couldn`t be locked from inside and we had to rely on a chair to alert us of anybody trying to get in, our kids were terrified. To sum this up - Dont go it should be given a Government Health Warning & be shut down for Health & Safety Reasons(its a fire Hazard).
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: july 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : rachael lansbury newbiggin by the sea 58,27,26,7
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
well first of all if you like a decent nights sleep dont come to palm court
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson July 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : wales 44,58
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Palm Court not too bad apart from worry about how to get out in case of fire. Some staff OK others not.
As for Benidorm itself it seems to have deteriorated as far as clenlyness is concerned. Bigest danger is to get hooked by the people who tell you you have won 1000 euro, a camcorder or holiday. If approached by one of these walk away. We were fooled and taken in a taxi to their office where there were several other `lucky` people.Spent two and a half hours there being told that we could save on our holidays untill the crunch when the manager tells you how much its going to cost. Nearly £6000 when you decline you are smugled out so that you cannot warn incomers and given a bottle of cheap wine and a £500 holiday accomodation voucher which I suspect is as worthless as the wine.
Next day we saw a family being given the `youv won` treatment and although the had already refused when we spoke to them we were bombarded with disgusting language in front of children and the threat of violence. Be warned they are very persuasive and you are in the taxi before you realise what is going on.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - May 2005
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : Nield Morphet - Manchester (20,22)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I thought the palm court appartment was fantastic as this was our first holiday abroad together.
the rooms were lovely and the reception area and pool area were spot on to.
the appartment is about 5 mins walk to the beach and there are plenty of gorgeous eating areas and plenty of bars all cheap and chearful.
the weather was spot on and the staff are very helpful.
watch out for men on the streets trying to sell you jewerly.
i would go back to palm court again.
have a good holiday.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Cheryl, Andrew (26,23)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
A last minute deal with allocation on arrival. Was very surprised how central it was- a couple of minutes walk from the main pubs and clubs in the new town. All the staff were so pleasant and helpfull, The room was well equiped, and the shabby couch was soooo comfy, I prefered to have my ceista there rather than the bed! Bathroom very clean and we had an open balcony with a little washing line-perfect. Tony romas was my fave eating place, the snacks at the poolside bar were good too. I found it quite noisey so had to sleep with the windows closed at night- luckily it wasnt too hot.
Would definately go back. Only downside was on departure day, we had to be out for 10am- you could pay £40 to keep the room till 6pm, but not woth it. Was a guest shower room to freshen up in later on though.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- april 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : 59 62
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked a 3star a.o.a. with Thomson Holidays
and arrived at the palm court
to complete horror, in 35 years of going abroad we have never
experienced accomodation like this. We contacted Thomson Holidays
s to make our
complaint and were told we actually had booked a 3T, beware 3T can be
anything from a 2 star which is what the palm court is, the furniture
was really awful and then the where the cockcroaches. I would advise
anyone don't go there.
We have been to benidorm many times, and cannot fault it, but the palm court was such a terrible experience, it will take me a long time to go back.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
April 2005
Opinion submitted in Apr 2005 by : Sally Bennion - Worcester (17,21,18,20)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived in Benidorm at night so we had no real idea what to expect. I've been to Spain before but i knew this would be different. We arrived at the appartments and i thought it was a bit shabby and small, but was surprised, the rooms were neat and clean, small but at least clean! You had all the extras you needed, such as cooking appliances etc etc. The beds were nice and even though the balconcy was enclosed this was good as the many drunken nights could have ended badly!
The people were great, real friendly. The pool area was lovely, a bit cold but in the Summer i'm sure it would be warm. The food was great and cheap, we all had a breakfast in the morning for a few quid at the most. It was close enough to the bars and night life, but far away enough for the peace and quite, would recomend to anyone! had a great time!
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- 2004 / 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : DARREN-SHARRON-NOTTINGHAM- 37-36-16-12
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
this was our 2nd visit to Benidorm "because we think it's got every thing"
the weather was brill "every day"
we arrived at Palm court around 4.30 am, so we thought we would be extra quite, but that didnt go for the people who arrived 1 hour after us!!!!
1st i must say gary & josie "who work in both bar s are very very friendly and helpful.
we were on on the 2nd floor "right outside the lift!!!! heard eveything all day & nite.
the rooms are vey small, but are clean to look at!!
the sofa is very poor "with fag burns in it!!
some of the sheets were thread bare with fag burns as well !!!
the balcony was very small" some are bigger than others"because most of the rooms have been made bigger,so some have 2 toilets or showers or both, some have better balconies.
we had a couple of cockroaches, but some of the guests we spoke to had loads!!!"big things they are" the hotel dont seem to want to deal with this,all they say is "your in spain"!!!
friends we met, had loads,but when they rang the rep, they said "it's the hotels fault!!the hotel said its thompson's fault!!! after asking for their room numer, flight number etc, said "they would get the more accomadation on the sat, but thats the day they went home!!!
there's no fire escape!somee of the looks have been glued from the inside"so people cant leave their keys in " as we found out, as my son went to the room and left his key in, so we could get in!"we asked whatif theres a fire, they said "you would have to jump!!!
the toaster and kettle didnt turn off!so makesure your very careful "as you will get the smell of burning toast from time to time in the hotel:-)
the showers get very hot " with a sudden burst of hot water "youve been warned.
you cant take you own snacks around the pool area " unless you buy from the pool bar!! "i find this poor when your on a self catering hol!!wouldnt mind if it was cheep!! ie ice lollies etc are cheeper in the shop nex door.
they have karaoke on a monday, but the 1st monday " they never showed up!!!
theres is building work going on next door "very noisy, as are the staff in palm court "in the mornings!!
the pool area is very clean and nice, but be aware the pool is very deep"even the shallow end must be 5 ft deep.
while we were there a lad got out of the pool & one of the slabs broke & fell in the pool.
the flooring is very slipy when wet!!!
not much for the kids "other than pool tables.also a basket ball machine, but it was always broke.
you go to the near by bars and get lager for 95 cents, san miguel "buy 1 get 1 free!
visit the duke of york pub"just up the rd and see my mates "kev & lynn, tell them Darren from notts told you to visit them.
you will find shops are very cheep nearby, but shop around!!!
the spar next door "isnt cheep!!
1 last time "IF YOU GET SUN BURNT "USE NATURAL YOGURT ON YOUR BURNS "VERY GOOD"
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: August 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Peel - Newcastle 57, 58, 28 & 4
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The kitchen has everything you may need!! The rooms are reasonable in size! They were clean. The only thing I could really pick fault on would be the balcony, there was 4 of us staying in a 1 bedroom apt, but the balcony was spilt into 2 so instead of having 1 reasonable sized balcony we had 2 very small ones & they were covered in with only the windows to open!! We had the windows & the balcony doors open from the minute we got there till the minute we left, as the heat in the rooms was unbearable. We actually bought fans for our rooms only to discover on our last day that you could rent them from reception!
The pool was kept imaculate & there was always plenty of sun loungers! On arriving you have to pay a deposit of £40 or 60 euros. these apts couldn't be more central!! The main square is 2minute walk, the market is 5minutes walk & the beach is about a 10 minute walk but get there early to get the best spot.
Overall an excellent holiday & the weather was fantastic in the 40's every day!!!
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (JMC Discounts) JMC - July 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Jan Frodsham, Nicky Miller & Carol McNicholas- Wirral (45,44,41,42,42,46,17,17,16,16,12,12
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Arriving at the Palm Court Apartments thought it looked a bit tatty. But we were pleasantly surprised. Rooms are very basic but they were clean, we had none of the visitors described in earlier reviews (and we had 5 apartments).
There is a very good supermarket around the corner from the hotel for your basic needs if you want to cook anything there the apartment only has a 2 ring electric hob. Microwaves can be hired in case you want to cook anything but it's that cheap you won't need to.There is a good selection of cups and plates also a toaster and a kettle in the cupboards.
In the bedroom there are 2 large wardrobes and the twin beds not wonderful but again clean. The brochure says it sleeps 2 to 4 people but 2 in the room is more than plenty. The bed settee is a bit grotty looking and I'm glad I didn't have to sleep on it.
Previous reviews have said about the noise but the management do have plenty of signs in the rooms asking for consideration to other guests. The noise levels were quite good.
The pool area is good and there are plenty of sun loungers, although the man at reception did take exception the the tankini my friend was wearing in the pool and told her she could not wear such a garment for swimming!
Food sold at the pool side is ok and not too pricey. Eating out is very cheap one of the cafes on the seafront does a "S*xy Breakfast" consisting of 2 toast, 2 slices bacon, 2 eggs and tomatoes for 1Euro!!! Other places to eat are The Magic Roundabout the food is very good and the prices reasonable. Country Ribs for those with a big appetite (the portions are massive)There is a lovely Chinese restaurant by the Magic Roundabout can't remember its name but you can get a good 3 course meal for 7 or 8 Euros.
A really good cheap bar is The Duty Free Bar were wine is 75 cents a glass and bottled beer is 50 cents and 90 cents for a pint! And it is decent ale Amstell, San Miguel etc........
Terra Mittica was very so-so, not nearly as good as Port Aventura in Salou. Tickets for Terra Mittica are being sold at reduced prices 20 Euros instead of the usual 32Euros. Plenty of nightlife but it is tacky the old town of Benidorm is much nicer.
Something for everyone in Benidorm and yes I would go back to the Palm Court Apartments if JMC were to reduce the price!!!!
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland DIRECT MAY 2004
Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : A BARKER 53, BILL HOLCROFT 53
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Absolutely diabolical accommodation, health and safety issues non existent, electrical faults too numerous to mention, plumbing problems, cockroach infestation, unhelpful staff not the place to take children.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Private Booking - April 2004 (Easter Weekend)
Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Jimmy, Irene, Pat & Peter (40something)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked our flights with Easyjet and booked these apartments on the internet - two one bedroom apartments and it was incredibly cheap.
Both apartments were really nice - very clean and comfortable - the beds were comfortable with a large wardrobe with plenty of hangers and there was a safety deposit box inside it which we didn't use.
There is also a sofa bed in each apartment which is a bit shabby but what do you expect for the price? Other facilities were a coin operated TV in each room, kettle, toaster, plenty of crockery and cutlery, ceramic hob, fridge, shower over bath with plenty of hot water - shower is a bit temperamental but not too bad.
There are about 6 apartments that have an en suite shower room and separate bathroom with small bath - ideal if you've got kids. Also there are only 4 floors with 1 lift. These apartments have two balconies (with retractable washing lines), both of which are enclosed - another good point if you've got kids.
There is a lovely pool area with pool bar and barbecue area - again very clean.
There is a main bar opposite the reception area which also does snacks and Dean, who works behind the bar, is really helpful and friendly - if you want any advice on places to go etc he'll be happy to help. In fact, all of the staff are very friendly and helpful.
The apartments can be a bit noisy at night - mainly guests coming back to their apartments.
These apartments are literally a few minutes' walk from all the action but far enough away to still have some peace if you want it, however as it was Easter when we were there the resort was still pretty quiet.
Very cheap in Benidorm - we had breakfast at Mr Bean's for 1 euro. We only went there because of the spelling mistake on the blackboard (2 eggs, 2 toast, 2 bacon, 8 beans!) but it was really tasty.
You can get a pint for about 1 euro in most places.
Taxi transfer from the airport was 55 euros - if you book your own flight and accommodation separately make sure you ask the taxi driver how much before you get in the car.
There is a bus that goes to and from the airport which only costs 6 euros per person if you're on a tight budget.
All in all we had a good weekend in Benidorm. I think it's great for a short break but wouldn't want to have a longer holiday there but that's only because I prefer smaller resorts that attract fewer visitors.
We would definitely go back to the Palm Court Apartments and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to our friends and family. If you go and you see Dean, please tell him that the Flintstones added their review as promised.
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Palm Court Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson - Jan 05
Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Ilsley & Rea, Sunderland (34 & 38)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived late at night, took a while to find as we hired a car from Alicante Airport for our 3 night stay in Benidorm without the kids!!! I almost cried when I say our room, a minging tatty sofa bed full of fag burns greated us as we walked in the door. No central heating at all and they hire these rooms out in winter to the older guests. The bedspreads were the worst, full of holes and clicks. The (enclosed) balcony was about 2ft square. Our youngests bedroom is bigger than the whole appartment. Do yourself a favour and do not book these appartments.
On the plus side, Benidorm is great, even in winter. Plenty bars and restaurants open. Chaplins bar is great for a laugh, avoid the Beachcomber unless you are deaf or love hardcore rave music. There are loads of shops in the old town, in January the have their winter sales too, you can get designer gear really cheap.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
Aug 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Tom Graham (49,40 & 9)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Due to UK weather booked a late deal pricebreaker so it was Costa Blanca allocated on arrival.
1 bedroom self catering apartment was on 14th floor out of a possible 25 floors. Staff friendly booking in was no problem though 60 Euros deposit is a little old fashioned. 4 lifts (2 do odd floors 2 do even but used odd at times to 15 & walked down)Room basic but clean and with free air conditioning which was used everyday & most nights. Location not too bad, no sign of refugee camp & didn't know about muggers alley but always went other way. Yes sunbeds were 1.5 euros but opened at 10:00 so for first time ever there was no need to set alarm for dawn to ensure getting sunbeds. Pool area clean and spacious. Supermarkes just at corner & walk into town only 10 minutes downhill (15 to 20 back). Bar area underused and has 2 pool tables, machines & SKY TV.
NO entertainment at all during day or night. LOcal pubs have acts like Chubby Brown tribute (for a 9 year old no thanks) or drag queens so it was shopping or simply sitting in pubs watching SKY TV. Beach brilliant but go right and along for 200 hundred yards as no rocks just sand. Supermarkets cheapest I've known and food is quantities like only a granny puts on your plate(try the Yorkshire Pride, down hill near to beach are on right hand side)
Benidorm is Blackpool with sun so if you like Blackpool go, if not and you have young kids check for entertainment or stay away. Most people have no time for kids and only see mam,dad & wallet
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Claire Radcliffe + Emma Broxup - Leeds (27 + 31)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having just got back from Benidorm, i did read some of the reviews and found it a mixed bag. So heres what i think.
This hotel is very clean inside and out, plus its very secure especially on a night. The door is kept locked most of the time and the night watchman really does watch as me and my friend tried to have a lift race at 6am in the morning and we got told off so its nice to know that people keep a watch on whos coming and going.
The lifts are a little unreliable so i would advise not to overcrowd as they broke down whilst i was there and whomever was inside was so for forty minutes.
The pool area is kept clean and tidy, the poolman is a miserable git and the loungers are 1.5 euros per day. He gives you a ticket, hang onto this ticket as he may come back and ask for it later. If you leave the pool area with the intension of coming back, leave your towel on it otherwise he will chain it back up..also, he goes on siesta at 3pm and you will not be able to get a lounger until he comes back so get in the morning. There is grass to lay on as a cheaper alternative. The pool area closes at 8pm so do not feel rushed into leaving early.
The cleaners some twice a week but they only give the floor a quick mop and change the towels, they do not wipe any other surfaces or change the teatowel so it is mucky by the end of the week.
The kitchen minioven looks crap but its really good, we cooked pizzas and it was really quick.
The hotel is next to muggers alley, its okay to walk down through the day but do not attempt to walk down it at night, its really not worth the risk. The romanian gypseys camp is next to the hotel on the wasteground. Our friend lives in Benidorm and she does not walk anywhere on a night. The taxi drivers are really friendly and appriciate the crime there so they will take you short distances withought complaint. From the main square to Paradiso is just under 5 euros.
The hotel does snacks that are reasonably prices but the hotel stops serving at 6pm. Nothing on on a night and no atmosphere in the bar area which is a bit of a shame. The hotel behind has some really good shows on though, maybe you can watch those if youve got young kids.
The main square is only a few minutes walk away, packed full of bars, the drinks are really cheap, the ticket towters do your head after a few days and loads of them sell drugs so if you have teenagers be aware.
The beach bars we went to were ridiculously priced and the staff were really rude and couldnt be bothered. We walked out of one coz we stood at the bar for a few minutes and were ignored even though none of the staff were doing nowt.
Benidorm is what it is, it is like Blackpool but the weather is loads better, food and drink are really cheap and the beach is gorgous. I will warn you that healthy food is hard to come by, most bars serve the usual crap like burgers and pizza's which is ok but i did start to crave a decent meal by the end of the week.
It only took around 40/50 minutes from the airport, we went with
Thomson Holidays
s and their was no presence of them in the airport at all, if you
cant see them, walk outside and the reps were stood with their coaches
so dont panic.
The best warning i can give you is this: Be careful in Benidorm, do not leave your bag or purse anywhere, only carry what is necessary and carry it securely. Pickpockets are rife, my mums friends were there at the same time as us and their mobile got nicked, then another time a hanky from their pocket!! Older people are especially at risk..
It was full of stag and hen do's when i went, i do not think its a child friendly resort unless your hotel has evening entertainment. I would not trawl my kids round on a night..
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: may 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : adams family -(55,55,35,32,13,9)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
the apartments seemed clean enough apart from finding the previous occupiers underwear when we moved the beds and hairs stuck in the bath yuk!!!! the bar down stairs is quite pricey but the staff are friendly the receptionists are quite helpful if you have a problem one half of these apartments look directly onto some sort of refugee camp where lots and i do mean lots of people including women and chidren are sleeping rough my first sighting of them was one of them doing the toilet and not caring who was looking there are also donkeys on the camp that kept us awake with their constant braying
the pool at the apartments is clean and well kept but i think it is a rip off you have to pay 1.5 euro per bed per day and if you even think about moving off it the pool attendant whisks it away to be locked up even if you have a ticket he makes you pay again leaving your towel on the bed doesn't work either he just moves the towel eating out in benidorm is very cheap the titanic bar which is just up the hill does great food you are better off going down the hill towards the beach for cheap meals there are plenty of chinese places where you can eat for 3.95 euro each and these are very filling
terra mitica is a must especially if you have children there are loads of things to do at this park it was quiet when we were there so we managed to get round the whole of the park twice in one day and went on most rides more than once the pyramid is brilliant you have to pay extra to go in here but it is well worth the fright!!!!! if you want cheap and cheerful this is the place to go especially the local market where you can pick up loads of bargains
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: Sue & stu Hessle Hull - Winter 2006
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : 64,62
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked these apartments just for a winter break.the weather was better than expected,so that was a bonus,also apartments were very good,exceptionally clean,smelt raelly fresh when you walked into room,nice bar area,although we did not use the pool (too cold) it looked well cared for, bar staff and reception staff very friendly.Although quite a way from the beach,not far from shops and night life
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Nov 2006
Opinion submitted in December 2006 by : Campbell, June & Cameron
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just back from our 2nd holiday this year at the Paraiso 10 and all is xcellent. The Staff, Karen, Elena, Paul, Sarah, Michaela and the Spanish Chap (cannot remember his name) are all so pleasant and cannot do enough for you. Eating out - The Bramley Bell, down the yellow brick road, opposite Sharkey's, you will receive a warm welcome from Ron, Audrey, Nick, Steve and the boys, breakfasts from 1.95 euro includes a large mug of tea or coffee and evening meals from 4.50. We ate there every day and the food is first class and cooked on order. Sharkey's also is good for Fish &Chips with pensioners portions if required and you do not have to be a pensioner and icluded in the 6.50 euro is a half bottle of red or white wine or tea or coffee with bread and butter.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
september 16 2006
Opinion submitted in November 2006 by : james maureen wee mo michael hanlon 42 46 12 6 cumbernauld glasgow
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
it was our first time abroad benidorm was brilliant loads to do you cannot cover everything in two weeks the beach was excellent the water was so clear the beach so clean everything was so cheap local drink only 1£ apint eating out was good to wooky hollow 2 the food great and pleanty the codfather the mundormur is a brilliant day out for the kids the parasio 10 apartments is very clean and basic rooms cleaned twice a week and towels the staff are very pleasent and helpful
the apartment are next to waste ground it is called muggers alley do not walk on it at night time it is named that for a reason when we were there three poeple were mugged one night on there way in. we only walked down it on wedensday and sunday to go to the market that is a must brilliant there is a shop just around the corner but get a taxi 5£ to big suppermarket next to old town really cheap has everything you need.
the old town is a nice walk out you see all the boats.had qa brilliant holiday will defnitly use the apartment again dont change all your money at home you get a better rate there it is 60£ deposit for the apartments the pool is great but be careful in the little pool when u go in as it slops and u could fall
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- Sept 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : The Carpenters, South Wales
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our third visit to these apartments because we think the location is just great. Everything we needed in the apartments including air conditioning which was very welcome as it was really hot. The reception staff are very friendly and extremely helpful - extra pillows were delivered quickly. There is no entertainment at the apartments, but you have the whole of Benidorm on your doorstep so who cares!!!!
Saw the fabulous Wesley Phillips, Cher and Tom Joes Triburtesat the UK Cabaret Bar (underneath the Presidente Hotel), the brilliant Words and Music at Rockerfellas, and the best comedian in Benidorm - Gary George - at Sandra's. The Boulevard Bar (formerly Eduardo's) just off Avenida Mediterraneo was really good especially a Country and Western Duo called the Kings.
Eating out is always good in Benidorm. You never fail to have a good reasonably priced meal at Foodland (opposite Gigolo's), and the restaurant and wash rooms are spotlessly clean. We also love Los Amigos Chinese Restaurant (opposite the Western Saloon), and of course the Queens Hotel in the Old Town.
Thought the streets of Benidorm were a bit dirtier than usual this time, and prices in some bars etc. have gone up a bit, but everything is still fantastic value for money.
Don't forget to pick up a copy of Roundtown Newpaper (free) as it contains lots of useful information includng bus and train times.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Sept 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Richard 47, Monica 49, David 27, Christine 24, Conor 18
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
The apartments were what we expected, Clean, tidy everything provided, cleaned 3 times in 10 days, towels changed each time.
Pubs and bars were good except fot Tommys, what a dive!!!. Sticky Vicky was still doing the rounds? she must be 69 by now??. Saw a live sex show? Dont bother, he was such a small boy he had to hide it?.
Apart from that we went to the Benidorm Palace, fantastic show, worth every euro, Aqualandia was also very good, went on every water slide with youngest son, great time.
In all a great visit and will go again, only complaint was this was the first time we went self catering, not a problem except for no entertainment, where ever we go again we will only go to hotels or apartments offering live entertainment, missed it badly, even a poor show would have been nice.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : 65 38 37 16 14 6
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Two bedroom apartment allocated for 6 of us with a pull out bed in livingroom area. Assumed this would be a double sofa bed but it was two wooden couches that were to be used as beds. Requested a low floor due to sleepwalker got the 19th floor and was informed it was only a request. £40 OR 60 EURO deposit to be paid on arrival, don't bother with T.V, sheets changed once a week and towels twice. floors swept and washed twice a week not ideal with six people in a small area our feet were never clean. If you have no balcony fingers crossed there is air conditioning. Pool area open from 10 am until 8pm and shared with the apartments next door. Area is clean. Sunloungers cost 1.50 euros a day but beware of the rude and arrogant sod who takes the money and keep your ticket or they are taken of you.
Bar staff are very friendly last orders 1.15am.
Eating out costs about 4 euros for English breakfast, between 5-7 euros for dinner. Pint of local beer can be between 1 and 3 euros depending where you drink. spirits normally cost between 2-3.50. Most happy hours end about 10.30.
Benidorm is full of high buildings and looks like it never ends. Beach is beautiful but it was so hot we could'nt stand on the sand.
We enjoyed our first visit to Benidorm but have no plans to return. Unless your children are a bit older i.e teenagers would'nt recommend it as a holiday destination.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- july 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : pat,andrea,hannah (41,39,13)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
this was our first stay at these apartments and must say that there is a lot of room for improvement.
the rooms are quite small and basic and we found the maids are more than happy to just replace linen and towells rather than actually enter the apartments and do there jobs properly.the pool is seperated from the hotel by a car park and has no poolside bar so if you buy drinks from the bar then you have to come back through a locked door,two flights of stairs and about a 50-60 yard walk through the car park.
if you plan to spend time round the pool then buy a lilo (4 euros)rather than pay 1.5 euros per day for a very uncomfortable plastic sunbed.we found the titanic bar is the the best place for food but for sunday lunch try the yorkshire pride,one place to stay clear of is john & josephs as it is very cheap but the food is aweful.
we have been to benidorm several times and would recomend it for family holidays,but not at these apartments.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson - December 2005
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Belinda, Brian (30, 34)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Had read some reviews and was a little concerned after reading the bad, but the hotel / apartments were fantastic and muggers alley really isn't anything to worry about - just don't go there at night. Let's be honest there are similar places everywhere these days!
Staff are great in Paradise Corner (attached to hotel) Bob, Paul & Toni are the friendliest staff we encountered in Benidorm, can really have a good laugh with them. Hotel does the usual snacks, toasties (lovely), pizza's (lovely), hotdogs, burgers and yes, pot noodles.
1 bedroom apartment on 2nd floor was great - had everything we needed and more. Tip on showers / bath - the apartments only have small boilers so you have to wait half an hour in between showers, can see that this could be a pain if there is 4+ people but really wasn't a problem for us 2 (just made my hubbie get up half an hour before me haha).
Never went anywhere near the pool as it was December but I did hear somebody asking if it was open and it was (must have been mad as it wasn't that warm).
Benidorm itself wasn't what I expected, if you like sitting in bars all day then it's the place for you, but as I cannot drink I got fed up with orange juice, coke etc.
Entertainment in the surrounding bars didn't usually start until after 10.30pm, and consisted of comics, singers, strippers etc. I wasn't feeling great one night and my husband decided to go and see "Sticky Vicky" (a 68 year old women who pulls items out of various places (too blue for here)). His words when he came back were "it was an expeience".
Meals are cheap and there are plenty of English Bars to eat in. On our first night we went to a Tappas bar (can't remember the name of it though) and that was the best meal we had. English breakfasts are served almost everywhere and are generally very nice.
Rep wasn't that good, only saw her once and she didn't really know much about Benidorm (think she was new).
Mudomar wasn't open as they were doing some construction work to make the dolphin encloser bigger as they are breeding (which is excellent news as dolphins don't usually breen in captivity so I can only assume they are being well cared for).
The Valencia trip was good - as a Liverpool FC fan we enjoyed going round Rafa Benitez's old club. For just a couple of euro's you get to go all around the stadium, the press room, VIP room, even the changing room etc. Our tour guide (Emillio) was really good, very informative and very, very funny! (He spoke perfect English and is married to an English woman) If you dind't facy walking around Valencia city centre alone he invited the entire coach to walk with him and he'd give them a guided tour. My husband and I declined this offer and went of on our own to explore.
The Lladro showroom wasn't our cup of tea but if your'e into that sort of thing then you can get it for half the price you'd pay in England. The tour guide bought a piece and raffled it of on the coach journey back to Benidorm (any profit made was donated to an animal charity) so even though we're not into Lladro we still bought a ticket to support the animal charity (if we had won, we would have given it to an older couple sitting behind us on the coach as they seemed eager to own a piece, we didn't win though)
Benidrom Old Town is nice, easy to get to but some of it is up a steep hill. Shops are good there and enjoyed walking around the mariner.
If we were to go back to Benidorm then we would definaltey stay at these apartments again, I couldn't fault them in any way
Weather in December is warm during the day if you're in the sun, but cool in the shade. Nights are quite cold but there are plenty of extra blankets in the wardrobes (we did have a heater but didn't need it)
Overall a good holiday
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Nov 05
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Nick Lawrence Blackpool ( 48,47 )
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Read the reviews here and thought it sounded ok but were pleasantly surprised because it was a lot better than ok. everthing was clean which to me is the most important thing, the staff were friendly and helpfull, the location was good because it was just off the main bar area so you didn't get disturbed, but when you wanted to party it was just a couple of minutes walk. Because it is so central you can easily walk to either the old town or the Rincon de loix areas, and the market was just a couple of hundred yards away.
The town itself is just unbeatable, We have been to many different resorts but for some silly reason always avoided Benidorm but how stupid we've been, In fact we loved it so much we are going back in march to the Paraiso again.
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- November 2005
Opinion submitted in Dec 2005 by : The Carpenters - South Wales (50's)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our second visit this year to the Paraiso 10 and once again everything was great. The one bedroom apartments was more than adequate for the two of us but would have been a little cramped for four adults! Heating/air conditioning has been installed since our last visit and this really warmed up the apartment, which was very welcome as the weather was rather chilly!!
Had some really good nights out at Sandra's club, also Buddies. Good cabaret at Rockerfellas but the seating is horrendous and very uncomfortable so we didn't stay all evening. Also went over to the White Horse in the Rincon area, it was a bit of a trek from the apartments but having regularly been there when staying in the Rincon area we felt it was worth the trek for at least one visit this holiday.
Unfortunately Alicante Airport is living up to it's reputation for pickpockets etc. On the fight ome an elderly gentleman told me that he had lost his wallet near the security check at the airport and lady said she had her bag stolen when she arrived - so beware!!!
I'm sure we will be visiting the Paraiso 10 again in the near future as we feel it is a really good base for a fabulous holiday in wonderful Benidorm!!
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- July 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Kerrie & Lauren (34 & 14)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Only booked this allocation on arrival holiday day before departure so was expecting basic accommodation in the middle of lager lout city but couldn't have been more wrong.
Never been to Benidorm before as I prefer the Greek Islands but as it was just my daughter & myself I think it was the best choice as there was so much to do.
TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT-Took about 2 hours but only because the coach had alot of drop offs & most streets are one way.
RECEPTION-Spanish & English girls were very friendly & helpful but the bloke was a bit grumpy. (You have to pay a 60euro deposit on arrival for your room which you get back on departure).
WELCOME MEETING-Don't bother unless you want to book a trip, ask reception for any local info as they probably know better than the reps.
LIFTS-Small, slow & hot but better than stairs as we were on 12th floor.
APARTMENTS-2nd best allocated on arrival I have stayed in. They were huge, patio doors from the living room & the bedroom straight onto the balcony which was also huge & had patio table with four chairs & a pull out clothes rail. Fitted kitchen with new fridge freezer, halogen hob, mini oven/grill with loads of pots & pans, also a utility room off which was handy for your cases (leave the utility door open if its hot as you get a nice breeze blowing through the apartment). Safety deposit box cost 1.5euros per day. Beds are a bit hard but my daughter took the mattress from under the sofa bed which was much softer (wish I'd found it first). Don't bother paying for the TV.
MAID SERVICE-Apparently she came on a Friday & Monday but I think she just gave you clean towels, loo paper & closed the patio doors. Probably the grump off reception on his afternoon shift!
POOL-Average size but clean & warm, sunbeds cost 1.5euros per day but we used our lilos on the grass instead (much more comfortable).
LOCATION-10 mins walk to beach, supermarket 2 mins walk, market (Sunday & Wednesday) 2 mins walk but we walked up 3 aisles & its just starts repeating itself with the same stalls & it was too hot anyway. I thought the apartments were situated brilliantly as you aren't in the middle of the noisy bars but still in short walking distance of everything.
TAXIS-Cheap & safe, reception will ring taxi free of charge for you but make sure you're ready to go as they are outside within 2 mins(some hotels were charging 3euros to ring taxis).
RESORT-Loads of shops & bars. Tacky seaside shops (owned by the chinese) near the apartments but better shops in Old Benidorm which is about 20-30mins walk along the promenade. A little road train takes you on a 20 min tour for 4euros. Watch out for the 'POTATO MEN' on the streets, they try the 'guess which potato the pea is under trick' they ask you to show a cash note out of your bag & if you guess correct they will match it with their own money, but while they're distracting you, their pickpocketing gypsy mates in the crowd are watching where you keep your money waiting to strike right behind you. Watch them from a distance & you'll see for yourself but don't let them see you telling any of their unsuspecting victims as I did (a women slapped me across my arm).
MUNDOMAR-16euros for adults & children over 12, don't need a full day though & I wouldn't bother with the parrot show, dolphin show is spectacular (take your camera). About 4euros each way from the apartments.
BEACH-Lovely soft sand & warm sea, was busy but if you just want to lie on your beach towels without a sunbed there are allocated spots so you can spread out more & its not so crowded. Beach is cleaned every night, look out for the 2 ladies who clean the length of the beach using a sieve to clear the rubbish. Also when walking along the promenade at night you'll see the amazing sand sculptures.
BENIDORM HOSPITAL-Unfortunately I had to visit & have a tetanus jab as I got glass in my foot but they don't accept E111 form's as it is a private hospital. Hopefully you won't need to go but again only 5 euros in a taxi & its very clean & modern.
Loads more I could comment on but I as this is turning into a novel I'll end it now, have a great holiday!
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
july 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : nottingham 48 47 37 30 22 17 2
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
just got back from benidorm and wanted to add a reply.
1st time here not as bad as i thought. arrived early hours after a ong coach ride. reception ok info about reps meeting said 11 am in bar. got there at 10.50 and it had nearly finished rep just said "oh did it say 11" when it clearly says it on all his stuff at reception.
staff are quite friendly unless you want to order pizza after midnight!! when they are open till 2am.
apartments were clean and well equiped and the best thing is air conditioning which im assuming is new as no one else mentioned it. also pretty quiet at night as just off where bars are.
beaches sre very clean but do watch all the rocks in the water at levante they can be very painful if you are caught by a wave and cant stay on your feet (personal experience!!)
now the pool!! shared by 2 hotels and not very big. went down a few times but one occasion bottles etc floating in it and cigarette ends. but give them their due it was cleaned when mentioned straight way. could do with a snack bar there and parasols and ashtrays.
nothing to worry about muggers alley just dont go down at night. plenty good places to eat inc 2 bars around corner wooky hollow 1 and 2 as well and yorkshire pride advice dont eat all day before going there and a must for rugby fans although service can be a tad slow.
overall a good holiday just dont get caught out by the potato men they con you or the people with scratch cards down by the market it isnt a time share but expensive holiday club this is what people say.
terra mitica good (my sis and bro say) and we went to mundomar well worth a visit. blanket trip a con as just a glorified sales gimic with a free market trip thrown in
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- July 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : lauren johnstone - fife (40,40,12,9)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel is very nice and there is a lift if you need to use one. There is a bar next door to the apartments and there is internet access if you have msn or aol you can sign in and talk to friends. The bar isnt excellent but there is a bar round the corner called the titanic whick has the internet too. If you like your sweets and juice and crisps you name it there is a supermarket round the corner too. If you are a shops mad then you will have a ball here with all the shops. I didnt enjoy coming in july because it is far too hot.
There is also a market that is on twice a week which is ok but sometimes you get better deals at the shops.Mundomarand the aquapark is a very good gay out for the family both of them is brilliant they are enjoyable for everyone so f you came i would go!!!!.At the beach there is loads of things to do go on a boat or swim in the sea go ona medal boat jetski and more...... The pool is very big and cold sometimes and i dont like going in a cold pool but i couldnt wait to get in because of the heat.
So if you were coming to spain-benidorm i wouldnt come in july its too hot!!!!!!
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Paraiso 10 Apartments - Benidorm
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- JUNE 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Davie Brown- glasgow (35,38,13)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Benidorm itself is 2nd to none, the nightlife is Superb, and i would stronly recomend the Village Pub which is at the Bottom of the Yellow Brick rd, it's a great pub for the family, food is excellent and the drink very reasonably priced,it also has an ammusement arcade next door which is owned by the pub, where the kids can play while you sit back and relax.Karaoke every night with lots of prizes to be won, presented by Nicky Noodle,she is great with the kids, and a quiz night on a Thursday, again lots of prizes.
As for the Appartments, well where do i start. It is billed as a
family coplex, don't believe it, after just 2 days a group of thugs(Male
and Female)totaling around 17 arrived and sent the place into turmoil. I
am all for enjoying yourself but these people took it to the
extremes.Drinking in the pool with glass bottles, throwing lager over
each other, using abusive launguage, pulling each others shorts down,
and when it took their fancy throwing people into the pool, which one
guest found out as she was lying on a sun lounger catching a few rays
and listening to her ipod. I reported this to my rep who did not seem to
bothered and i'm still waiting on a responce from the Thomson Holidays
group.
The Maid service is very scarce, i was there 2 weeks, had clean towels every 4 days but bed linen was changed once. We had a burst water main the 1st week and had to go 17 hours without water, so that ment no shower or toilet, they said that you could use the shower at the reception but were charging you for the privilage.
I love Benidorm and go at least twice a year, but i certinly won't be back at these appartments.
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