Benalmadena Hotels and Apartments A - O
Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Self booked February 2007
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : Ian & Kate Rigby, Inverurie, (57,53)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We were on the 8th floor of the Alay looking over the marina. The room was very clean and towels changed daily. All staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Quite quiet at this time of year and very relaxing. No children running around.
The area around the marina is full of small touristy shops and there are plenty of eating places. Recommend Jacks and Pinoche for good quality food.
Loads of eating places along the boulevard towards Torremolinos - especially if you like fish.
Went on the open top red double decker bus around Benalmadena. Found it a bit expensive.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Freedom Direct Nov 2006
Opinion submitted in December 2006 by : Stan Eddleston 63
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have just spent 2 weeks ( Nov 5th TO 19th) and wish to say how much I enjoyed my stay at the Alay. The towels were changed everyday and the linen on Tuesday of each week.The room was given a swift daily cleaning waste bins etc and generally kept tidy by the staff.
The people on Reception,in the Restaurant and bars were extremely pleasant and efficient and ensured that my stay was enjoyable despite a few days of rain.The only downside was a damp, musty smell from the wardrobe which may have been caused by water seeping through the wall from the adjacent bathroom.This smell was masked by the purchase of a solid air freshener and leaving the wardrobe doors open.All the flights,transfers etc were organised in an efficient manner by FREEDOM DIRECT and I would not hesitate to recommend the trip organiser and the hotel.
The resort is fairly at night during the week days only coming to life at weekendsso it would probably not suit "party animals".
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: self booked sept 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : chris smith- leicester (54 53)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Just got back from benalmadena.
The food was rubbish they served the same every night.
Be warned they have no fridges or tea making equipment and also the tea bags are crap so take your own.
The rooms have a smell as well as the corridors and air con noisey when you are trying to sleep.
Friday and sat eve is very noisey with people going to the disco,s and not coming out till very late.
No entertainment in hotel and very poor else where.
Wont be going back.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: self booked june 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : M cooke- rotherham 45,46
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
After reading reviews i thought the alay would be a good choice for a short break,
the hotel had a terrible smell throughout. to say the decor is dated, is a understatement,the rooms are very small,although they where clean, not a place i would chose to stay in again.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Self Booked April 2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : Ken Atkinson. 53, 51
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
My wife and I enjoyed a five night B & B stay at the Alay Hotel in April 2006 and found both the hotel and resort very nice. Benalmadena can pretty much cater for anyone, it can be as quiet as you like or as lively, suit your self. The promenades, beaches and marina were spotlessly clean, no litter or refuse in sight and all park and garden areas were well tended.
The hotel decor is somewhat dated but both the public area's and the room were spotless and cleaned every day. There are no facilities at all for children, so for families this may not be a good bet, but for those of our age who quite selfishly find the peace and quiet that comes with the absence of children most welcome then this hotel fits the bill.
Would have no hesitation in returning to the Alay.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: B m i baby - Jan 2006
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Colin & Janet (54, 52)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This is a lovely hotel. It was clean, the staff were pleasant,the location of the hotel was very good, and the food was excellent. The hotel does not seem to cater for children (woopee), so the hotel was reasonably quiet(you could actually hear the classical music in the background whilst you were dining). The beds were big and very comfortable. I would stay at this hotel again and would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: internet booking - 2006
Opinion submitted in February 2007 by : joy and bob 55,54
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
we arrived at the alay to find our booking had been cancelled by the internet provider who had gone bust one month after taking our booking, no one had advised of this cancellation.
the hotel receptionist was extremely helpful and allowed us to book a room for one night until we could contact abta the next morning, throughout our stay we were treated with courtesy and kindness by the reception staff who even translated one phone call to the local booking agent. the rooms were clean,well furnished and the dining room staff were very good the food was a little bland but we ate out most nights. we can reccomend the fish restaurants on the esplanade. also visit the lite house bar located behind the marina, english couple very friendly and helpful.sue and dave we are will be back later this year.bars in torremolinos are very lively and irish bars in particular if you want a good time until the early hours of the morning.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Independant - 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Garry, Mandy (49,46)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel was very dated, would not class this as a 4*. Staff were not very friendly, pool area left a lot to be desired and the pool was a small square shape and very deep-i'm 5'11" and couldn't touch the bottom.
reviews said food was good- we found it awful, hotdog sausages with cheese, spicy chips and grey looking half cooked sausage twice a week and that was breakfast. Resort lovely, hotel near the beautiful marina which we recommend you must see and eat at Jacks. Sea front lovely with selection of bars and snack places-try Al Cabana, lovely people and very relaxing place to stop and cool down.
The big downfall of this resort is the steep hills you have to climb to find other eating places and bars- the reviews said they were not a problem but they are when you are walking up them every night looking for entertainment(which does not exist) most people seem to just sit and drink and talk at night. came end of September-flies are a pest but don't know if they are any other time-they covered the loungers round the pool, not too bad on the beach.Walked up to the train station to go to Malaga one night-2 mile trek up hill, shame because the train is only 2euros and takes you along the coast.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Sept 05
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : 13 people - varying ages 25-50
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Hotel Alay is in a brilliant location for both the beach and the marina (which is stunning). The rooms were clean and the staff were helpful and friendly. Breakfast was also good with plenty of choice.
Plenty of bars and restaurants close by. We ate at Pinnocho's one night and 5 out of 11 of us ordered steaks (19 euros each) which were awful. We did complain but the waiter didn't seem to care. After a bit more complaining, he decided to only charge for 4 steaks.
Good Disco bar is Kaleidoscope.
I will definitely be going back to Benalmadena, and to the Alay.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: flyglobespan Sept 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : jimand jean 41,48
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
just back from a week at the alay hotel and could have stayed another week.,hotel is spotless clean towels changed every day and bedding twice a week.we were on the 11th floor and what a view we had over the marina as read on another review this is not a hotel for kids as the pool is 2 metres deep and not much else for kids to do but good if you are adults only as it is so peaceful,would definetely return to the alay hotel
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Own booking 04--08-05
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : 34 plus
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel exceptionaly clean and a very good standard. Clean linen, towels and toileteries every day. Good food and waiter service in restaurant.Great for couples. Pool deep, sunbeds available any time of day which was a nice change from most hotels.Beach just across road (maybe why there are always sunbeds.)50% Spanish staying in hotel the rest british. Very few Germans in this resort! Some traffic noise from marina road, but a small price to pay for such a good location. We stayed in the block of 12 floors, think the balconies larger than other block.
Marina opposite with lots of shops and bars. And 5 mins other way 24hr square with disco bars and much cheaper drinks. In the daytime near 24hr sq you can get a bus 2.30 euros return and go up the mountains to Mijas a very pretty village with amazing views, park and museums, nice shops and restaurants. Go in the tourist office and you can get a free map to see the sights there, or take a horse and carrige or donkey ride around the village.
Good holiday would go again and definately stay in this hotel.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: No Operator July 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Ian and Sandra 41
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel Alay fantastic! All staff were attentive,friendly and helpful. Accomodation top notch.
Breakfast excellent, choice of full English or continental (buffet style). Pool side bar excellent service and food. Maid service excellent clean sheets and towels daily. Air con throughout the hotel.. much needed as it was 40 degrees plus all week!! Nice pint of Tetleys in the Americano bar!! Harbour 2 minutes walk with nice views and resraurants/shops (good for people watching!!) 24 hour square for those party animals is 5 minutes away but doesnt interfere with the hotel. Beach 2 minutes walk with more bars/restaurants.
We thought bar prices in hotel were reasonable. Pool is 2m deep all over so not so good for young ones however use of adjacent pool at he Alay Apartments would be ok and only walk 20 yards from Hoel entarnace.
All in all top hotel, top resort would recomend both to anyone.
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Alay Hotel - Puerto Marina, Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Flyglobespan - June/July 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Debbie & Barry Lennon - 28 and 29
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We had never been to Benalmadena, and didn't really know anyone who had been, so it was a bit of a gamble, but we loved it!
Our hotel, Hotel Alay, was situated in the best possible place, 5 minutes away from 24 Hour Square (if you want to go there), 2 minutes away from the beach and 2 minutes away from the Marina. We went to 24 Hour Square once but most of the time we headed to the Marina. We just loved it there. Plenty of places to eat (Metro being our favourite), watch out for drink prices down at the Marina though. Through the day it's amazing there aswell. I would dream of being rich and living on one of the many yauchts! There are literally thousands of fish swimming in the water, and there is a cafe on the waters edge that sells bags of bread for 1 euro to feed them. We did this a couple of times, it's great fun watching them.
There are loads of different boat trips leaving from the Marina every day aswell. We didn't go on any but I'm sure we will next time we visit. We walked into Torremilonos a few times aswell, the beach front is lovely. We also got the wee train up to Tivoli World once. The train leaves every hour on the hour, and it leaves from just outside Hotel Alay. Tivoli World is good for kids, but not so good for adults.
We also went up the cable cars, you get the wee train to take you there aswell. It's pretty amazing, if you're not too scared of heights anyway! If you don't mind walking, we walked the length of Benalmadena which can take you quite a while! It was a good way of seeing parts away from just the Marina. And walking along the beach front is lovely, loads of wee places to eat and stop by and have drink.
Our hotel was great though. I wouldn't recommend it if you've got kids though, there's no entertainment through the day or at night so they could get quite bored. The pool is good and you can use the Alay Apartments pool, although they charge you for using the sunbeds! I had never came across that before! Our room was lovely, and was cleaned every day. Obviously it being a hotel you don't get a fridge in your room, but just along the corridor was a drinks machine and ice machine, so we just went along every night and filled the ice bucket and put our drinks in that to keep them cool. We were bed and breakfast, and the breakfast was always lovely, with a lot to choose from. Staff are friendly and helpful.
I would recommend this hotel and resort to anyone, and we plan on going back very soon!
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Aleysa Playa - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Dec 2004
Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Gail Boyd - Rossendale (49,47,47,46,43,39)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Spent 6 nights at the Aleysa Playa. The accomadation is 1st class and the owners and staff are all excellent.
There are only 17 roooms in the aparthotel and they are very tastefully furnished and spotless.
The aparthotel is situated opposite the crazy golf on the main beach road - 10 mins walk to the beautiful marina. There are lots of good quality restaraunts as well as small friendly bar / cafe's within 5 mins walk.
Benalmadena makes a good base to see the sights of the Costa Del Sol
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Aloha Playa - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: independant 10th may 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : 37,39 johnson
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from along weekend. Hotel very old and in need of urgent repair but very clean.The pool area and bar appeared to have been modernised.Can't comment on food as we were self catering but did eat at snack bar which was good.Hotel seemed very quiet not a lot of guests.No need to reserve sun beds always plenty to go around but you need someone tall to reach these as stacked in very high piles.Some building work going on at back of hotel but this didn't cause a problem as we had sea view.
Our apartment was on a split level with stair leading down into lounge/bedroom.Hotel staff spoke very little english sometimes found it difficult to get point across.If you like sea food there is a lovely place (can't recall name)but walk towards beach it is the first restaurant on the promenard/next to beach on the right it is blue and white again alot of spanish ate here waiters spoke very little english but tried their best to help always pleasant,only open through the day .Went to marina at night very nice atmosphere but drinks far dearer. 8euros for small beer and class of wine(same drinks in pub next to hotel 2 euros),12euros for a cocktail.Went to fenjarola on local bus which stops outside hotel they runon time and regular 1.20 euros each way.Taxi to/from airport is 25 euros each way.We were able to keep our room on as late flight for 20euros.
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Aloha Playa - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Anne & Hannah, Clackmannanshire (41, 15)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
When we arrived at this hotel we were pleasantly surprised as on the ground floor it looks really nice as we had read reviews on it that were not too good. Then we went on the lifts!! take your life in your own hands, these were very old, noisy and scary. The apartments are old and tired (a blast from the 70's) and in desparate need of modenisation. They are duplex with 2 balconies, both with bird nests attached and lots of birds droppings! We did ask to have our balcony cleaned and it was done right away but was just as bad the next day so we just didn't use them.
On a positive note the hotel is spotlessly clean and the rooms were cleaned and towels were changed daily. The food was delicious with plenty of choice. The pool had a life guard on duty all day. The reception staff were very helpful. I don't think these apartments would suit people with children as they have 2 balconies (one in the living area and one in the kitchen). When you opened one door the other slammed shut very fiercly and half the wall fell off at one point! also there was a marble staircase within the apartment and tiled floors which were deadly when wet.
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Aloha Playa - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Flyglobspan - 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Fiona Edwards - Angus (55,46,15,13)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
This hotel overlooks the sea and is hanging on to its 3* by the skin of its teeth. It is rather tatty and was obviously in its hey day in 1970. There is a kitchen in all apartments (the fridge is handy)and all have tiny balconies with not very high railings (the walkways to apartments were the same and a definite no-no for young kids)- there were four of us and only 1 chair. In fact 4 wouldn't fit on the balcony. It said 1km to the Marina (where the action is) but it took me 11 minutes to run there in the mornings. We arrived on 28th Sep and no-one else was there apart from locals who own or rent apartments (they had dogs and one guy kept a monkey!)and two busloads of 75/80 year olds from France which is a regular occurrance. Breakfast was basic and meals in the evening were fine with plenty of choice. I think we were in the residential end of Benalmadena as opposed to tourist. (oh, they were building a residential hotel right behind ours and started at 8 in the morning and there was a busy dual carriageway in front of the hotel then the beach.
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Hotel Arenas - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - April 2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : Harry Smith - Lanarkshire (60,58)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
No problems with the holiday Company or the Hotel itself but its position and the resort - how disappointing.
Our hotel was seperated from the beach by the road from hell. A dual carriageway which runs all the way down the coast and is used like a racetrack. Traffic only stopped for a couple of hours per night and while we were there a German woman was knocked down outside the hotel and badly injured. Very poor selection of places to eat. Marina area was nice as was the Parque de Paloma.
Not our cup of tea and not recommended.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
august 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Laura Hailes- Darlington 46, 41, 15, 9
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel was clean and the rooms were cleaned every day without fail. A wide
range of food choice every night. Drinks are free with breakfast but you have to
pay for them with your tea. The Thomson Holidays
s holiday reps were very friendly and
knowledgeable. The bar is open until 1.00am every night and the nightly
entertainment is good, the kids enjoyed it. The med playa entertainers worked
hard every day & night to keep kids and adults busy. The kid zone was great and
the Thomson Holidays
s kid zone reps were very friendly. The swimming pools are clean and
there are plenty of sunbeds but not enough umbrellas for the people who want
them. good bars to visit nearby are
CJ'S- a karaoke bar
Chesters- a bar with kids games some nights
Johnnies bar- for football matches
Murphys- an irish bar next door to the Bali
all in all a good value for money holiday for families with children - we would visit again
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
- August 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : den,ell,los,pal,elly,jay (10,13,55,40,49,48)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
we've just returned from 2 weeks at the Bali. The weather was gr8 but i thought the resort very scruffy. The Hotel was very clean with loads to do for everyone, the rooms were spotlessly cleaned and the food excellent value. Although i wouldnt return to this resort again i would recommend the Bali Hotel to anyone wishing to go. The hill and steps to the beach really did wear us down by the end of 2 weeks (but did keep our weights down after eating so much good food)
All in all enjoyable first time but not good enough to return to.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: skytours - july 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : d harrison - newcastle - 41 12-10
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
i couldnt fault the hotel,rooms clean,towels changed daily.food was fantastic,so much variety every day.med playa entertainment staff were brilliant at keeping kids amused.overall the bali hotel is good value for money. marina area was beautiful,but not enough shops in benalmadena,head to torremolinos shopping centre.
i would return to this hotel,as everyone was helpful & curtious & lots of entertainment day & nite.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: july 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : maureen howe
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
hotel was spot on,nothing at all to fault.entertainment staff the best ever,we thought it was a bit away from the beach 80 steps down.then up hill to hotel after crossing a busy road.that was only fault as we are beach lovers .but location was ok to get buses to other places of interest.
so overall was a great holiday ,will go back.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
-june 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : d hylton-norwich ages 68,63,40,36,8
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
we have just returned back from the hotel bali in benalmadena and it has to
be said it was fantastic,the staff were great all the way from the
cleaners,bar,reception,kitchen and the on site Thomson Holidays
reps.the hotel was clean
and tidy all the time the staff were helpfull and friendly all the time and the
food was good with different thing every day and the rooms were cleaned every
day without fail with beds made and fresh towels.the down side was the outside
at benalmadena it was not very clean at all and it smelt aswell we found it to
be quite a dump,the beach was ok if you like grey sand the weather was great
reaching 37 degrees most days but the pools and the sea were still cold.the
safari was good and bad the animals were great,the truck rides a bit nervy,the
food stalls were shut or out of food and no one who worked there spoke
english.the croc park was good and so was selwo marina.
we went to the park that most people leave reviews about near selwo marina
where the animal walk about it was a nice place but we did have 100 euros stolen
from us by 2 flower selling ladies so be alert as one sells you the flowers the
other is helping themself.we flew with Thomson Holidays
from luton both trips we on time
the plane was fantastic and so were the staff the only down side bad
organisation at malaga they were using a spanish company to pick us up and it
was a mess.all in all a great hotel but in a poor location.
ratings:
hotel 10/10
benalmadena 2/10
Thomson Holidays
9/10
attractions 7/10
taxis 9/10
buses 7/10
other drivers 0/10 (they are all nutters)
overall holiday 7/10
we had a good holiday because we made it happen but would not return as you can do better with the money you spend on a holiday
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
- June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Olly Diane Jenna Zara 39, 40, 6, 3
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Stayed in Hotel Bali and had a super time. We stayed in the self catering apartments and ate out every nite - great choice of places to eat everywhere. The hotel is very central to everything and is up a slight hill but nothing as bad a what other reviews say. The kids club run by Martin and Jenna is first class and they do plenty of activities to keep my normally shy kids entertained.
Up the hill is bonanza square where there is loads of places to eat and have a drink. There is also a supermarket which is good value. Near there you can get a 2 course chinese meal for 4euros 2 cent and it is lovely. A lovely bottle of rioja with the meal was 6e 20 cent. At the very top of the hill is a all you can eat a lovely chinese for 11 euros adults and 6 euros kids - you pick the ingredients and the make it in front of you. The marine is good and so is the promenade. At the marina you can find some good value for money restrauants upstairs but still over llok marina. Tivoli world is worth a visit and get their via the train that circles the town. Paloma park is also worth visiting with kids. Myhas is a village in the mountains and is 1 euro to get to using the bus service. When you get there, go find a restrauant that over looks the brilliant view. Also get a bus to Torremenlenos and Fugerorla as both are worth going to.
Would definitely go back to the Hotel Bali.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
- June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : K&M (64 & 54) Cambs
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Just returned from a week at the Bali, went AOA, and were hoping to get this hotel (our fourth visit). The hotel is kept very clean and the maid service is quite good also. The only drawback we found was that the standard of food has gone down a fair bit, especially the meat which seems to be the cheaper cuts, but I always found something to eat at every meal.
If you want to get water go uphill from the hotel to Bonanza square and get it from the MAS supermarket (5litres for 55cents) rather than going downhill and having to carry it up and paying a lot more. (eg. 2litre of Sprite- MAS 99cent, the supermarket opposite the hotel 1.95 for the same thing)
If you fancy a good beer then try Fagins halfway down the hill in a square to the left (Alhambra at 1euro a pint) and the snacks are good as well. You will get a very warm welcome from Doug and Yvonne and also from Denise (but make sure she wears her apron). If you are brave enough, go for the shorts (whisky, vodka etc) and see what amount you get - three of these and you go back up the hill without a problem. This bar is quite popular with the Bali guests and you can always have a good crack as everyone is very friendly.
Another place for food is Bar None, down the hill to the bottom, turn left and it is one of the first bars you come to. They do real homemade chips (not frozen) and their homemade steak pies are absolutely fantastic, I know I tried one and was completely stuffed by the time I had finished it and the chips.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
june 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Midlands family. 59,58,40,31,12.
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from 2weeks here,had been before about 4years ago.
We were very dissappointed this time round.
The Food.
If you like chips every night with every thing and sprouts with fish you will be ok.Lots of times you could tell food reconstructed into something else and given a name never heard of.There is show cooking but always cheapest cuts of meat.
If you do have a snack from the poolside bar be very wary of the chicken,my husband and I watched the assistant,he tenderised raw chicken on chopping board,placed it onto grill,then without washing his hands,using the same knife and chopping board he put bread rolls on and sliced,needless to say our chicken roll went straight into bin.
Around the pool arears it was difficult to get a sunbed after 10.30am as most reserved with towels on and some days these beds were not occupied until after lunch.I think the Hotel should put signs up saying no reserving, as people with young children want to be out of the sun by mid day.
Entertainment is rubbish,just animation team miming to records.
Very good local bars,but if you have kids keep away from Albatross across road from Hotel full of pensioners playing bingo and quizzes and the Hosts are very miserable and want Kids to be silent!!
Mr Pickwicks just further down is an excellent family bar were you are made welcome and always have a good laugh.
Having been to the Bali before all i can say is the standard has really fallen and we will not be returning.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
- may 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Jo, Paul and Sam - Maidstone (37,39,14)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our first visit to the Costa Del Sol and we were happy we chose Benalmedena because it was just right for a week long break. We arrived on the 31st May and the weather was fantastic, we were told the week before had been totally different with very heavy showers, but on the day we arrived it was 35 degrees and it stayed that way for the week.
The resort itself is lovely, although there is a very busy road to cross between the Bali Hotel and the beachfront. The beach itself is very nice with a lovely promenade leading to the Marina, which is very posh (This is reflected in the prices for the restaurants and bars)
At night you can either head down to the promenade/Marina or for a cheaper night head left, up the hill, to Bonanza Square where the prices are much cheaper but less scenic!
The hotel was very clean, the pool areas were very good and the night time entertainment was good family fun.
We found the buffet to be excellent, with a good choice every night. The staff were great too.
Our only complaint would be the thin walls in the rooms! You could here everything that your neighbours were up to! We did not sleep very well for the whole week because of this.
Anyway all in all a fantastic break.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
may 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : 41,41
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
we traveled with Thomson Holidays
and was not disappointed the hotel was on a slight
hill and only slight.the hotel rooms were in need of a refurb but kept
clean,maids replaced towels daily if needed,rooms cleaned everyday.we went half
board and only ate in the hotel 3 times, our choice ,but the food very
good.plenty of bars cheaper away from the harbour.weather great all in all had a
great time. well worth a walk around the harbour plenty places to drink .
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: DIY - May 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Hampson's 37,37,8,4
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This is our 4th time to the Bali. As a family we are well travelled but we always end up back at the Bali in May. Let me explain: Benalmadena in massive don't be fooled by the first impressions (all the British Bars, however some of these are quite good) there is a more Andulucian feel if you look. The Hotel is family orientated - during the summer season I would imagine couples/singles would find it bedlam. Hotel food I cannot comment on as we always stop in the studios self catering as we like to eat out (plus a fridge for the essentials - milk, beer and the likes of). Hotel is non smoking (confined smoking room for smokers is available). Bar prices in the hotel are very reasonable - now, I may be letting you into a secret but if you like wine buy by the bottle (not your Chateauneuf du Pape 96) but it is only and has been since 2005 ?5.80 a bottle (4 quid roughly).
Entertainment is acceptable, not your Sonamar but remember where you are and how much you have paid. That aside the entertainment team give it 100% (day & night) Cardiac Hill while a generous hill is not as bad as you may be lead to believe! As mentioned in other post - Paloma Park is lovely. Tivoli World fantastic value for money. Sealife & Selwo worth visits. And don't forget to use the Noddy train, as said Benalmadena is big - see it all - good & bad. Our last visit was early May Bank Holiday, this was squeazed in before our regular visit for half term (end of May). Trust me, if you are a reasonable type of person who can take rough with smooth - then I think you will enjoy!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Skytours-May 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Terry Holyman 37,34,7,4
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from 2 weeks at hotel bali.The hotel in my opinion is a 3*** with 4**** food.
The maids do a brilliant job keeping both hotel and rooms spotlesly clean. Rooms are on the small side with limited space for cloths. The room had only 2 plug sockets so i would advice taking an extention.The shower was a power shower always with hot water.We hired a fridge during our stay at 5 euros per day very cold,Also hired the safe at 2 euros per day. On our final day we kept our room on it cost 25 euros. The hill outside the hotel is not that bad,My kids never complained so it can't be bad? As for Benalmadena if you like Bingo,Quizes,kareoke and lots of cigarette smoke its right up your street if not don't go. We went out in the afternoon for snackes at the local bars/restaurants,Big mistake as everywhere we tried was full of bad mannered smokers.
After tea it seems that the only thing for young children to do is go to the local park.Don't get me wrong the park is lovely but when you've been 2/3 times its enough.A weeks stay would have been about right.We went to the sealife centre during our stay.Its the same as blackpools,It cost 51 euros 2adults 2 kids.Also went to mijas aqua park,42 euros from reception.It was ok but got told that aqualandia is better but it was closed during our stay.We hope this is usefull to you.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland - may 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : stacey - halifax (23,22)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
i booked this holiday last year and only paid 500 for 2 of us for a week half
board so thought i had got a bargain until i visited this site and read all the
bad reviews about it i was actually dreading going but my experience there was
totally different i have nothing to complain about room was nice towels were
changed everyday (so whoever said they never changed them well thats not
true)staff there did games for every1 throughout the day so if the kids were
bored they had something to do eg dance classes pool competitions mini golf ping
pong, reps were really helpfull especially hollie (lovely girl) and the food was
really quite nice breakfast wasnt 2 good but was ok only minus is cardiac hill
but even that has been over exagerated on here its not actually that bad there
was a shop across the road that is much cheaper for excursions than Thomson Holidays
s and
theres some nice little pars close by with nice people in them
over all everything was good and i would go back to the bali so if ur going enjoy .
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Martin Cockerill - Yorkshire (42,40)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from a weeks holiday at the Bali. We found it brilliant and would recommend to anyone - in fact we have already booked to go next year with our 3 children. The rooms are basic, but very clean, with maid service every day. The hotel staff are very friendly and helpful. We stayed half board and ate there every night but one and thought the food was very good.
The resort itself is brilliant, lots to do - the cable car is a must. My wife wasnt going to go in this but did in the end and throughly enjoyed it (after initial panic about the height) and enjoyed the views at the top. Another must is to go to Paloma Park which is very nice and relaxing (although if you are frightened of birds, not a good idea). The Marina is lovely for a walk round, although prices are obviously more expensive.
All-in-all excellent hotel and resort!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
March 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : G.H Newcastle
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just back from a weeks holiday at this hotel,
Firstly the hotel room was just say ok, bit basic and well worn with furniture damaged and scratched, pigeon poo all over balcony with a poor locking balcony door.
Food was very poor with very repetative menu, dishes were often just say warm, ok if you want to eat chips every evening meal, breakfast was not too bad. Dirty glasses on tables from the night previous.
Staff.: Bar staff were ignorant. they would serve the spanish guests before you even though you were there first, never smiled and would ignore you. But allways expected a tip..!
Restaurant.: Same a bar staff really, never smiled and allways as miserable as sin.
Reception.: Very un-helpful.
Maids.: Never saw them so can't comment.
Resort it self was very hilly, not that clean and as for the
night-life.....................NON-EXISTANT..! If you like pokey litle shacks
with all the soap opera's on (corrie,enders etc etc) then this might be for you,
but anything lively is a no-no, Even the Thomson Holidays
reps couldnt recomend anywhere
even half decent with-out having to travel to another resort..
Trip to Gibralter was good as was the safari/marina but a week was too long.!
Was constantly being bombarded by people selling fake sunglasses and bling bling.
Never again would i return to the Bali hotel/Benalmadena nor would i recomend it to my worst enemy..
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- Feb 2007
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : BN - Carlisle (41, 41, 14)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just back from an out of season holiday to Benalmadena. The Hotel Bali is a large Hotel but nicely spread out. We stayed on a half board basis in a room not studio. The rooms are in need of a 'do up' but are immaculately clean, maid service and towel change is daily. The food has a very wide choice and is excellent (although the food is aimed at the Brits). The waiting and bar staff are very friendly and efficient with nothing being too much trouble. There is entertainment nightly with discounted drinks 3 times per week. Bar prices are very reasonable as is the wine in the restaurant. The Bali is worthy of its 3 star rating.
A short walk down the hill and steep steps leads you on to the promenade, from there you pass some very good bars ofering excellent local food and can easily reach the fantastic Marina and continue on to Torremolinos. The railway station is situated in the centre on the old town with trains every 30mins to Fuengirola or Malaga. A return ticket is very cheap. The cable car is situated just past the station and is well worth the trip. It takes you almost 3km and has spectacular views from the top, as well as Bird of Prey and Horse displays tickets are 12.50 Euro. Mijas is well worth a visit and if you are prepared to suffer a 'blanket trip' you can often travel there for free. The park in Benalmadena is excellent for a casual stroll. As I said we went out of season and the weather and friendliness of locals was great. I would not like to visit in the peak holiday season as there seems to be the potential for many British bars!
Anyone with mobility problems would find it difficult as the Bali is siutated up a steep hill.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct - 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : D, S and M - Notts. (47, 36, 5)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We expected more from the hotel as we were sure that it catered for children.
We have visited many hotels where there are plenty of activities to amuse them, but the Bali isn't one of them. The "mini disco" didn't exist. They preferred to play ballroom music early in the night for the Spanish guests to dance to. The very few disco songs were played after the "entertainment" had finished at around 11pm. The main entertainment wasn't up to much either.
We stayed in a self catering apartment in an adjoining block - which in itself was like a maze to find. After 2 days we had to ask at reception for clean towels. We asked when our room would be cleaned and we were told once a week - we were only there for a week so we assumed this would be when we left. 2 days later the maid called to change our bedding but my Granddaughter was asleep so she left the sheets with us to change! Not once during the week was our room cleaned by the maid. In fact on looking under the bed at the pile of dust I don't think it had been cleaned for a while.Our room was also prone to silverfish. We had to continue to ask at reception for clean towels and also toilet rolls!
The cooking facilities were very sparse too -only 2 cooking rings, no oven or microwave. We even had to dispose of our own rubbish each day at the back of the hotel!
We mainly ate out, but one night we paid to eat in the dining room. The choice wasn't great and some of the food was barely warm.
We have stayed in Torremolinos before on the border of Benalmadena, near to the Marina, and we had a great holiday, but this one was a let down. The hotel is not worthy of a 3 star status.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Oct 06
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : John Barrett - Halesowen. ( 49,47,14 )
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from great week at the Bali.Rooms basic but very clean,food excelent with plenty of choice,entertainment (evening) pretty poor and aimed at Spanish guests.Benelmadena as a resort is looking a bit tired but Marina area is great for Bars and Shopping.
All in all a great relaxing week.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Skytours Oct 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Paul - Kent (38, 38, 8)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Let me start by saying we went during Oct half term, paid less than £850 for the 3 of us, and so feel we got good value for money!
The hotel is on a steep hill, and I'm glad we didn't have a push chair to get up there. Hotel is a bit run down, but is kept immaculately clean, public areas and your bedrooms. Bedrooms cleaned every day with new towels left. The bedrooms definitely needed a change of furniture and a coat of paint, lots of it chipped or damaged (more 2 star than 3!).
Restaurant served a good range of food, breakfast being one of the best I have had in Europe, The only complaint there, was that food was only just warm, not hot. We never had to queue for a table, but if you didn't time it right, there looked like a lengthy wait, especially at dinner.
My daughter went to the Thomson Holidays
kids club and enjoyed herself (much better
than the First Choice one she went to once in the Summer!)
Benalmadena is a nice reosrt, and the park was fab, we went there everyday to feed all of the birs and rabbits.
All in all a good holiday, nice clean hotel with smashing staff. Defnintely recommend it for a cheap(ish) get away.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: Skytours - October 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Ann Shaw 66 - Graham Smith 68 - Rugby
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We went back to this hotel as we were here in 1986 and what a difference. The
Hotel is now three times the size it was then but the hill up to it seems 3
times as steep and longer. Perhaps its because we were younger in 1986. We got
the holiday from the News of The World on one of their half price holidays so
had a very good deal. Flew from Luton and had a really good flight with
Thomson Holidays
fly which was on time. Hotel food was good with plenty of variety and the
price of the wine was good as well not as expensive as some hotels we have
stayed in. Didnt do alot while we were there as we went for a rest basically.
The weather was superb!! Lots of hot sunshine and hardly any cloud. The only
gripe we had was the welcome meeting with the Thomson Holidays
Reps, We would have liked
some info re the hotel and its surroundings and local transport options but they
went straight into selling the various trips, which we had done previously, also
the "Free excursion" to the Blanket Trip which we did some years ago and could
not stand the hard sell. We did not stay in the hotel in the evening for the
entertainment as we like a game of bingo, preferably in english only, and found
a great bar just down from the Hotel called the Albatros, no queing at the bar
as the landlady brought your drinks to the table and they had 4 games of bingo
for euros, very good payout as well, plus a free quiz every night for a bottle
of wine. Really enjoyed these evenings. We would not go back to the Bali again
as the hill really did it for us but had a good holiday.
All in all we got a bargain holiday!!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
sept 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : george ann lancashire 52 51
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
we stayed at the hotel bali in the apartment block. It was very spacious and reasonably equipped for self catering if needed.We found the location very good and the hotel although quite full was eerily quiet around the pool areas every day, not that we are complaining.The entertainment was good and the staff very helpful.
Our only complaint is the noise.The walls are paper thin and you do really hear everything!We will return but next time with earplugs.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- Sept 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Tara Welch ( 31, 28, 4 )
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We returned from on the 5th September and would recommend this to anyone.
The hotel was excellent. It was clean, the staff were very helpful and friendly. It is central to everything but out of the way enough so that you are not disturbed by the busy nightlife.
The food was good....loads of choice, always hot and of excellent quality. Even our 4 year old ate it so it must be good!!!!
Thomson Holidays
were fab. There was always someone to help and the kids clubs were
the best. We felt safe leaving our boy at the clubs and he was very eager to go.
'Cardiac hill' is not that bad and we expected a lot worse.
The marina is really nice with loads of nice shops.
Overall a nice holiday and excellent value for money
We will be going back here next year..
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- August 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Gilfillan. McIlhenny, Martin Family-Belfast(36,35,9,3,33,33,9,64.69)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from a wonderful holiday in Benalmadena, Hotel staff at receiption, bars and restaurant where always very helpful and they always greated you with a smile. We thought rooms where clean and basic but that did not matter as we only ever slept there and they where kept clean by very hard working maids who came in every day.
Food was excellent and there was always lots to choose from and even the kids
liked it and they can be fussy eaters. Thought hill was abit steep and we where
really glad for the soft sofas and air conditioning in receiption after we
returned to hotel. Special thanks to George and Marcel and the rest of the hotel
entertainment team who worked so hard every day and night and gave us many
laughs and we never seen our children as they where always playing pool games,
killer darts etc and of course the mini disco. We took the Thomson Holidays
trip to
Gilbraltar shopping and had a lovely day tour guide on our bus was excellent,
kids loved Paloma Park and Tivoli World,our husbands said view from the cable
car was breathtaking. Sea world and the marina where fantastic. There was so
much to do two weeks is not enough, we would definitely return to Benalmadena
and would recommend the Hotel Bali.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
august 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Mark, Sharon, Connor. Goole. 44, 47, 12.
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We spent the last 2 weeks of August at the Bali, if you have a child around my sons age it's the right place to be we hardly saw him all fortnight as he made so many friends.
The times that we did go out together we went to the waterpark at Torromelinos we went there with some friends we met at the Bali great day out, try to go on a Saturday (Change over day). Tivoli world is good value for money and another great outing, the cable cars are fantastic and the bird of prey show is good 1.30pm and8.00pm our son loved it. Fuengirola market is busy with much of the same stuff and it gets very hot. the marina is a good place for an evening stroll as is the promenade.The Bali hotel has friendly staff and everything you need, apart from parasols, we bought our own for 8 euros from the shop over the road ,when we were there it was very busy dispite this we always got straight in to the dining room,if you like a cup of tea on a morning then do what i did and take your own tea bags, theres a Spar shop,turn left out of the hotel and follow the road round you can also get taxis there, ask for a price first.
All in all the Bali hotel rooms are basic, theres lots going on all the time , and it's great for kids, our son loved it and because he was happy we had a nice relaxing time we would go back again.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
s August 206
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Ann Lucas 43 Dean Lucas 44 Bradley 8
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Hi
Just got back from staying at the Bali we stayed in a apartment for the first time as we have always stayed in hotels. The apartment was clean, but the fold down bed was very uncomfortable - even for our 8 year old! Maid service was twice a week but your day of arrival counted as your first and the next was Wednesday. (at home we only use a towel once so by Monday we needed more towels) reception were very helpful and supplied us with some more.
The hotel was very clean and the entertainment staff - The lads were brilliant!
As we were only there for a week we didnt go on many trips we went to the Crocodile Park, we got a taxi from reception 8 euros and really enjoyed it, you all get to hold a baby crocodile!
A definite must is to go to Bonanza square, loads of choice of bars, our favourite was Robin Hood Bar, Joe and Kev, make you feel very welcome the service and food is excellent.. do yourself a favour and go and try them the next time you are there, we promise you wont be disappointed! The Legends bar just across from the Robin Hood is again a welcoming bar, limited in food but definately worth a visit. What ever you do DONT go to the Pipers Bar service very poor, food average and staff miserable!.
I would recommend the Bali and hopefully we will return.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Wendy - East Yorkshire 39,38,64,35,11,8,7)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We traveled mid August for 2 weeks. The hotel was clean and tidy. It was freshly painted and in a good state of repair.
The food was of a good standard and was always hot. There was plenty of choice, both for breakfast and evening meal. Evening meal consisted of home made soups, 2 different ones each evening, 3 mixed salads plus individual salad items, eg grated carrot, sweetcorn, lettuce etc, grilled chicken steaks, lamb steaks, roast beef, veal, satay chicken kebabs, curry, grilled and fried fish, fish fingers, chips, steamed vegetables, mashed potato, jacket potatoe, there were many more choices over the 2 weeks we were there.
Although there was no waiter service in the Restaurant you could go to the bar within the restaurant and buy your drinks.
Although some people reserved sunbeds around the pool there was no point as at 11 am one morning I counted 24 spare sunbeds.
The resort of Benalmadena we thought had seen better days. It looked very tired in places. We used to call in at a bar next to the Hotel called Pacos. It is a spanish bar, which is very traditional and very reasonabley priced.
We traveled to Gibraltar with the travel agent across the road from the hotel. It was a lot cheaper than Thompson. The downside was that the coach made 3 or 4 stops along the coast to collect other passengers instead of going straight down the motorway, so we were on the coach 4 1/2 hours and did not reach Gibralter until just after 12 midday and had to be back on the coach at 4 pm to return.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland - August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Jeff Morgan - Luton (49, 43, 12 ,9 )
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked this hotel via Portland Holidays website in May 2005 for our August 2006 holiday. For 2 adults and 2 children we paid £1412 half board for 2 weeks, which works out at only £176.50 per week per person for peak season including the flight. I would have paid more than this for 2 weeks in a caravan in Bournemouth and still had to feed us all.
So what of the hotel? After reading the reviews here about paper-thin walls I emailed the hotel and asked for a quiet room on the top floor. We were given a room on the top floor in the annex which had only 8 rooms on that floor. This was the most peaceful room I have ever stayed in with the bonus of a fabulous sea view. The room was very basic with furniture that had clearly seen better days. The 14-inch TV in the room was tuned in to BBC1, Sky News, ITV3, Eurosport, Sky Movies and around 15 foreign channels. The hotel is best described as an economy plus 3 star hotel and could do with a little updating. There are 3 pools in total, the upper pool has a safety rail that divides the tots end from the rest of the pool. There is also another main pool 3 floors below at the front of the annex block and self-catering apartments. Below this pool there is another level with a lovely tots pool which is surrounded by grass. Many guests would have been unaware of this pool if they were staying in the main part of the hotel as this area is hidden.
The location of the hotel is far from ideal for anyone pushing a buggy. To get from the beach to the hotel involves climbing 14 steps to the promenade. Then there are 69 steps to be climbed which leads to a 40m slope. A 4 lane major road has then to be crossed which fortunately is traffic light controlled. Then it is up Cardiac Hill, which is steep and around 250m long.
As for the town the harbour is a must. It is clear that the architect who designed the buildings around it was gifted, as the harbour is a beautiful sight. The park is also a must and puts most UK parks to shame.
Many people went on the Gibraltar trip but be aware that our trip lasted 11
and a half hours with only 4 hours in Gibraltar. It took 4 hours to get there
including 1 hour in the queue for the border crossing. We were then given 2
hours shopping time and a 90 minute minibus tour of the rock. I have to say that
despite the travelling time the trip was worth it just for the minibus ride. We
paid 21 euros each from the travel agent opposite the hotel while Thomson Holidays
s
wanted around 45 euros for a similar trip.
All in all it was a great holiday but then we are easy going and always have a great holiday.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: aug 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by :
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Recently came back from the bali and had a great time, hotel has 4 pools (2 on the top level and 2 on a lower level). Food is excellent, lots of choice, (cold salad bar, soup, lots of meat dishes and fish, something is always being cooked on a gridle every night, chicken, chops or fish usually) Maids tidy rooms and make beds everyday.
Kids club is great, my daughter did'nt miss a session, kids club reps are friendly too. There is a session every day exept thursday and usually about 3 evening clubs as well, evening clubs cost 2 euros but well worth it for 2 hours on your own!!! T
he marina is well worth a visit and the chinese junk boat trip at night is very good. We went on the trip to the waterpark and enjoyed it as well, lots of slides for younger and older children. Tivoli world is also worth a visit, lots of rides for kids. It opens at 6pm and closes at 2am. Its very family friendly and be warned you will get very wet on the log flume!!! It costs 6 euros to enter and 10 euros for a wristband for entry on all the rides. Daytime entertainment is very good, all the animation team work really hard the only downside being that the evening entertainment could be better, but apparently its their first year with a proper stage. The pickwick bar just outside the hotel is worth a visit too, lots of free quizzes plus bingo for adults and kids, bottletop bingo is well worth a go, Finally, cardiac hill is not so bad, take it steady and call for a drink if your not so fit but honestly I managed it easily and i'm VERY unfit.
If you go to this hotel hope you have as good a time as we did!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- Aug 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Angela ,Steve and Owen - Manchester (39,40,12)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
WOW, what a fantastic holiday we have just had, just got back yesterday 18/8. I wish we had booked 14 nights now cos we were having so much fun. Hotel lovely, food great all english food, day/evening entertainers are great especially Al,George,Rosie we had so many laughs with them and they were unhappy to see us go. The 4 swimming pools are great 2 childrens and 2 large, so plenty sunbeds to go around even in August. Evening entertainment good but could do better. Drinks reasonable for a hotel. Internet for kids just 1 euro for 10 mins not bad for them to have a quick chat with their friends or family. We kept intouch with our 2 daughters via MSN cheaper than ringing.
Hotel right on doorstep of all shops, bars and restuarants and beach just a couple of minutes walk too. Lovely beach and promenade with shops and restuarants too. Visit the CROCODILE PARK costs 9 euro for adult about £6.30 and 6.50 euro about £4.60 for child 12 n'under, great day out. Well we are going to re-book for October holidays as we enjoyed it so much. Give it a try and you wont be disappointed. ENJOY..
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland - July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Evans - Coventry (56, 55, 35, 35, 8, 5, 2)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just arrived back from 2 weeks at the Hotel Bali, I have to say that it was booked after reading so many positive reviews about it on this site, however our experience does not live up to these reviews.
It started very well, we had a 5pm flight and got our transfer coach without delay, the 3 children had to sit on laps as there were not enough seats though.
We arrived at the hotel at around 11:00pm we checked in at a nice reception and were pleased to be informed that there was a late supper in the dining room for us.
I think we were in the excelsior block, but the grand name did not reflect the rooms, to say they are basic is being a little generous. There is no fridge and no light on the balcony if you want to sit out in the evening. The furnishings were very old. The Bathroom was ok, but general cleanliness was below what is expected. The Aircon worked, was a little noisy but welcome all the same.
The Breakfast runs from 8-10:30 and Dinner from 6:30-9, the Dining room is fine and there was always a table for us within a couple of minutes, the food was fresh and of good quality, We adults had no problems eating there and neither did my 3 children.
There are 2 main pools and 2 kiddies pools next to them, all of which were packed to bursting, it is obvious that the pools are not big enough when the hotel is full. We could get a sun lounger by putting towels out at a resonable time, but if you wanted an Umbrella then you had to be up with the larks, by the end of the 2 weeks people were putting towels out on the night before. The pool experience was not enjoyable at all, it was standing room only at times.
The beach whilst also busy you could find some space and get to the sea without problem, the beach is ok with a dark sand usually found on the likes of Lanzarote. You get there straight down the hill and then down some steps, it's only about 5 mins there and 20 mins back up the hill.
Benalmedena is very britsh based on the busy main road, all brit, sports and irish bars of poor quality but friendly owners.
on the promenade it is nicer away from the traffic and the marina area is good but gets extremely busy at the weekends.
We went to a water park in Torremolinos one day which was great fun, but do be prepared to queue for everything.
We caught the bus to Fuengirola one day and this looked to be quite a dump other than one small square and we did not stay long.
All in all it was very built up and very busy and not of a good standard.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Dave ,Ange, Dave and Dawn Sheffield 40,39,40 and 42
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hello
Just returned from a week in the Bali Hotel. Lovely hotel very clean and friendly fantastic food great choice.Resort was great plenty of choice in pubs and resturants. The Marina is lovely. Slight Hill going up to the Hotel but nothing really and you could always stop on the way up for a beer or two.We were only there for a week so didn't go on many of the trips but heard good reports.
Just one problem Watch out for the BMW men and women on the Hill and everywhere they insist they are not timeshare but they are. They tell you you have won a cash price and whisk you away to the Marina you are then taken on a drive and kept there for 3 hours while they try and sell you a time share. The cash isn't real either they make you do a scratch card and you only win a holiday voucher which is more trouble than it's worth. Please be careful they come on foot moped or car.
Would certainly return to the Bali and Benalmadana.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct - July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by :
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from the Bali Hotel (July 2006).
The hotel was very good. It caters mainly for families with children, with
very good entertainment supplied by the hotels in house team. The Thomson Holidays
kids
club was not very good though as it only operated on certain days. The team that
runs the daily entertainment, Alvaro, Beatriz, Olga, Fernando, Ros, Liz and
George worked their socks off to keep the kids amused. They put on shows in the
evening that consisted of them miming to music (It's better than it sounds).
The shows that were best were "Mama Mia", "We will Rock You" and "100 Years Of Cinema"
There are Four swimming pools, two adult and two childrens pools. They have lifeguards. We had a terrible moment when a young child was saved after being knocked out and falling to the bottom of the pool. The lifeguard saved his life with mouth-to-mouth after jumping in.
Food is excellent with a great variety of meats, fish, salads and sweets. Could have been a bit hotter though.
Maid service is first class and very clean with a daily visit and change of linen a couple of times.
Sky T.V. and BBC1 in the rooms, though you have to hire the remote contols for 10 Euros. Make sure you get a safe in the room. These now have digital keypads to save you having to retain the key.
Drinks were quite reasonable for an hotel. There is no waiter service though.
The reception are very helpful. We needed more pillows and an early morning call which were effortlessly supplied.
Cardiac hill is no problem if you are mobile. There are a few ticket touts at the bottom but nothing to worry about.
Room for improvement:
A lick of paint in some places.
Waiter service.
More parasols - You will have to get up early to get one and you will need one in the summer. Sun beds are plentiful.
Cheaper excursions - Look for alternatives to Thomson Holidays
.
We visited:
Tivoli World. It opens at 6p.m. - 2a.m. Nice because the heat has cooled a little. Get a wrist band for 10 euros.
La Paloma Park. Free entry. Nice for an evening stroll. Birds, rabbits roam the landscaped gardens with Ostrich's enclosed.
The Marina. A must. The layout is spectacular, the drinks and food are obviously more expensive there.
The Cable Car. The highlight for me with breathtaking views of the Costa Del Sol. At the top there is horseriding and a bird of prey show, although you can see the show without actually having to pay the entrance but you don't get a seat. Only about 12 euros each and a great photo opportunity.
We would definetly go back to The Bali and found it great value overall. When we left they were adding an outside terrace to "The Sunny Side" bar and cafe next to the pool.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Rob Kay and Thomas - Barnsley (38,30,5)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Returned from the Bali yesterday after a 2 week break.
The hotel is a large complex set in 3 blocks. The complex is clean and tidy and rooms are cleaned daily. There a 3 pools, the top pool is mainly for adults and older kids the next 1 down is mainly for younger kids and the third pool is a toddlers paddling pool. These pools have a lifeguard on from 10 until 6 and whilst we were there the lifeguard,Rafael,who did an outstanding job and I hope the hotel reward him was called into action to save a young lad.
There's daily entertaintment during the day for both adults and kids
organised by the hotels entertainment team and kids clubs 5 days a week with
Thomson Holidays
and also nightly entertainment which is mainly aimed at the kids but the
entertainment team work hard on it so give it a try. The reps seemed ok but we
didn't have much call for them.
There are 2 snack bars serving food and drink throughout the day and fairly reasonably priced. The food in the restaurant is good with plenty of choice for everyone both at breakfast and evening meal. Most of the hotel staff are polite and helpful whilst some can be a little abrupt and grumpy.
The only downside to the hotel is the paper thin walls in the rooms. Now I generally don't moan but trust me you can hear whatever is going on next door,upstairs and downstairs! With this being a large hotel with families,couples and groups of lads and lasses staying people are coming back to their rooms at all hours so be prepared to be woken at anytime from midnight to dawn.
The resort is large and spread out stretching from the pretty marina all the way along the front with a selection of bars and reataurants. Didn't go to the 24 hour square which is situated close to the marina. Bonanza square is worth a visit which is 5 minute walk up the hill from the hotel with again a good selection of bars(we recommend The Robin Hood) and eataries. Take a fly swatter with you as there are hundreds of the pesky little things!
Try Tivoli which is ok but beware that if your kids are under a certain height(1.4m) the choice of rides are limited. The park located close to the hotel is worth a look with animals running wild.
Not over keen on Benalmadena but the hotel is good.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct - June 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Steve, Jen, Chloe, Shannon & Jamie (33, 29, 9, 7 & 2)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel rooms were clean but looked a bit dated, however, they were air conditioned which was lovely after coming in from the heat. Maid service was excellent, clean towels everyday.
Only problem with the rooms are you can hear everything from upstairs and either side of you so, if like us, you get noisy neigbours then expect to be woken at all hours.
Prices in the hotel for drinks and food from the cafe bar were very reasonable.
When we booked we were told it was family hotel but there were groups of all male/female parties there, which was not ideal as they were obviously there for the drinking, which became a bit intimidating when you have 15 in a lads party all swearing and shouting in the hotel.
The entertainment for the children was good but a bit repetative, mini disco was the same songs every night, but the shows were good and the entertainment staff work hard and the kids loved it.
The food in the hotel was good, could have done with a bit more choice for children but overall, it was good.
The pool areas were ok but be up early to get a sunbed and umbrella.
"Cardiac Hill" is not too bad, but can be a bit of a tow with a pushchair.
The reception staff were not very helpful, we had a couple of problems whilst we were there but it was like pulling teeth to get anything done.
The marina is excellent and well worth a vist and the square up the hill from the hotel.
The resort itself seemed a bit dirty but the walk down the sea front is nice.
If you book any trips it is advisable to go to the travel agent across the road, the Thompson tours were very overpriced. The trip to Gibraltar is recommended.
Overall it was an enjoyable holiday but not a place I would return to.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- June 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Alison, Mat, Lucy and Anna ( 38,37,5,3)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Have recently returned from 2 weeks at the Bali Hotel. We enjoyed two weeks of wonderful weather which was just what we needed!
After reading many excellent reports about the Bali, I was disappointed with what we received! The main part the hotel(which is in 3 sections) is clean and recently refurbished, unfortunatley we did not stay in this part! We were put in the third building which was very tired and run down! The block was in the process of having all the room doors replaced and it was great amusement to discover if we had a door handle on our door each evening as often it had fallen off!
When we arrived we had a family room with an extra campbed in! My husband sat on it and discovered that it was wet (not a good start as my children had been up since 2.30am and needed a rest!). After a couple of phone calls the whole bed was replaced! The room was very dated with a real Seventies look and the bathroom was very grim and in need of a clean!
The food in the hotel was the best part of the Bali! I can honestly say that it caters for everyone with a huge range of choice! One evening it was the Andalucian night and my two girls didn't like the selection! One of the waiters went into the kitchen and brought out a selection of cold meats and cheeses as an alternative which was very kind! The Friday Gala night was a nice touch too!
The entertainment was very repetative! And quite poor but the Girls loved the Disco even if the same songs where played for two weeks solid! Thank goodness that the Happy Hour( 3 times a week!) made it more bearable! The outside acts were better especially the Flamenco show!
The Kids Club was average and as we had previously been to another Thomson Holidays
Kids Club the previous year it was not as good as we had expected!
The Thomson Holidays
excursions were a complete rip off! Go across the road at the top
of the Hill to the Travel Agent to book the same trip at half the price! We
booked the Thomson Holidays
trip to Gibraltar because we where lead to believe that it
was a difficult trip to make with children! But this was not the case and we
paid over 100 euros to go and the Travel agents opposite the hotel would have
charged 52 euros! And there coach was earlier on the pick up than ours!
The Cardiac Hill is no problem at all even with two tired little girls!
Benalmadena is a fantastic resort for families! Would recommend a visit to Tivoli World early evening, also to the Sea Life centre with its undercover soft play area and the wonderful Paloma park which I recommend to escape the Kids Disco for just one evening to sit have a bottle of wine at the cafe and watch the children running around with all the animals! We also took the public train from Benalmadena Pueblo to Malaga Centre which was probaldy the highlight of the holiday! It cost 2euros 40 cents each for the reutrn trip around half an hour to travel and the city is magnificant. Picasso museum is fantastic and the Cathedral is beautiful!
Overall it was not a hugely expensive holiday, and we got what we paid for but the hotel is very loud not restful at all and we got what we paid for with no frills! I would return to Benalmadena again but not back to the Bali. Next time nearer the peaceful and beautiful Marina!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct, June 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Mellissa, Hertfordshire (31,28,5,3)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Came here with our 2 young sons. The hotel itself is situated on a steep hill (locally known as cardiac hill). Obviously this was very hard going especially with the pushchair. The resort itself is nothing special. The main road was dirty, smelly with run down looking shops and restaurants.
The beech is quite nice. Plenty of sunbeds (end of June). Its a mixture of sand and stones but kept very clean. The only downfall is that we had 80 steps to battle with just to get on and off the beach everyday!!!!! Again a nightmare with small children and pushchairs!!!
The marina is definately the best part of the resort. Excellent views and nice restaurants - obviously a bit more pricey though. Shops are OK around the marina - a bit more upmarket than the usual tat around Benalmadena.
Sealife is also worth a visit. We all enjoyed this. There are sharks, jellyfish, octopus etc etc. There is a nice little snack bar and kids ball pit area on top.
The Bali hotel is massive and very loud. Our room was situated by the lifts and stairwell. The lifts have a mind of their own and on some occassions we were waiting for 10 mins. Went HB - the food was great and the restaurant staff were very polite and helpful. You have to pay for drinks including bottled water. Swimming pools are nice but sad people spoil it by reserving the sunbeds with towels from as little as 7;30am!!!
Kids mini disco was good but the rest of the hotel evening entainment was a little poor.
Overall the holiday was OK. I would recommend this resort for famillies with little ones. There is nothing really to do, the resort is really quite dirty and smelly, very hard to get around - everything seems very spaced out. Will not be coming back to Benalmadena.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Johnston (66, 36)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned home on the 11th of June. Had a great time at hotel Bali.Food was exccellant always hot and plenty of choice.Hotel staff very friendly and helpfull.Only draw back about is if you want a sunbed with a parasol you had to up at 8am otherwise you had no hope,plenty of beds without though.Rooms were spotless and cleaned daily. In a lovely quiet location but only short walk from marina.Hotel is on a very steep incline it is known as "cardiac hill" now I know why!!!!Went to Zoo in fuengarola very good. Went to Tivolli World and was a bit disappointed a lot of rides not open and place was very quiet.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Tracy Hopkins 38, 68, 9
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just arrived back from a week at the Bali where I stayed with my mum and my little boy.
We had a great holiday and have no complaints about the hotel. The room was very clean, the maid came in everyday and clean towels were left. The staff in the hotel were all friendly and helpful. There was so much going on around the hotel for children. My son enjoyed the kids club and the daytime activities that the hotel entertainment team provided. Two swimming pools and always a sun lounger available. Great to see the pool had lifeguards on duty - this is something very rare abroad! I was delighted to see it was a no smoking hotel (for those who do smoke a separate lounge is available).
The food was excellent. Something for everyone and plenty of it. The resort is very 'hilly' lots of steps wherever you go but 'cardiac hill' is no where near as bad as people make out. Highly recommend the local park where you can see birds, rabbits, fish all for free in beautiful grounds. Beach was nice too.
If I had anything to fault it would be the evening entertainment in the hotel. It was poor unless you were a kid!
Great place to go for a cheap, cheerful break. The weather was fab too!
I would definitely go back again.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Dave /Betty Fletcher (54, 52, 7.)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back last night from a week half board in Benelmadena. What a fantastic time we three had.
Had not been to the Bali for 2 years,still the same,good food,entertainment,and the service,BRILLIIANT.The grassed area at the back of the hotel is now patioed,which i think is much better,they are at the moment building an outside stage on that patio which will make the entertainment even better.If any of you are taking children this year there are no worries around the swimming pools as there are life guards from 10 in the morning till around 5 in the afternoon.Went on the full trip to Gibraltar 54 Euros for 2adults and 1child booked this with the tour operater over the road from the Bali,it was great.However if like my wife a bit wary of free roaming apes you can stop on the bus.
Entertainment outside the hotel is very varied something for everyone.We went to Mr Pickwicks at the bottom of the hill on the right fabulous time,(he has a good pint of John Smiths),Brian and his team work really hard.We went to a few places for lunch,The Albatross over the road from the Pickwick,Busy Bees,(turn right at the bottom of cardiac hill and its about a minutes walk).The lord bill which is beside the windmills is also good.We also found a place on our last day The Sundial,(pity we didnt find this earlier) it is in a pretty square behind Barclays bank or if coming off the beach look for blue tiled steps about 20 of them,a couple from Portsmouth are running it food and service is great very friendly people.
The only downside is the ticket touts but every resort has them and if your a seasoned traveller you will now how to deal with them.We are going back next year with our friends from Lincoln who we met there 5 years ago.(read our review on Bulgaria Victoria Palace Sunny Beach),and once again going back to the Bali and Mr Pickwicks.
Hope anyone thats going has a great time( we are jealous of you already),Adios as the locals say.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 06
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : L Thompson - Glasgow (1, 3, 33,34)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Enjoyed a fortnight in Belmadena in May this year staying at the Hotel Bali, half board (we payed extra for a studio apartment, glad we did as lots more space for two small kids) Rooms a bit basic but clean, staff very friendly and food great. Hotel good with children "mini disco" every night, otherwise entertainment ok! 3 pools one of which idea for small kids. Only down side to the hotel is the hill you need to climb to get to it, not for the faint hearted!!!
Resort nice and lots to keep the kids entertained during the day, we enjoyed the Selwo Marina (Dolphins). Not a lot of night life outside the hotel for families with small children.
Overall a good holiday, would go back!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
May 06
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Gillian, Louise, Phil 37,14,11
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from 2 week break. Room and hotel areas all very clean.
Food very good, plenty of choice for evening meals, always well cooked and hot. Occasional queues at busy times to get in restaurant, but never more than 2 minutes.
Daytime entertainment excellent for kids and adults, about 5/6 different activities each day. Evening entertainment started at 8.30 with mini disco - same songs every night, then bingo and show at 10 for an hour, then dancing. Entertainment team - Alvaro, George, Liz, Beya, Juan, Rosa and Fernando are excellent, really friendly and great with kids.
Bar prices are cheap in hotel! E2.40 for a pint, E1.25 for a coke.
Hill isnt too bad. Plenty of small bars around serving food. Beach a 5 min walk downhill and steps.
Would recommend for families with all ages kids, but not for couples only.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : andrew griffiths 41/42/10
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have just come back from the bali hotel on the 1st of june 2006 after 11nights. We found the food at this hotel very poor and always cold there was no choice at all for children so my little girl ate out at all times.
The hill up to the hotel was very steep and not suitable for the disabled
people when booking this trip with Thomson Holidays
we was informed by them that the hill
was not that bad. The entertainment at this hotel was not very good it consisted
of dancers every night. The hotel its self was clean but the rooms where very
basic and poor also the drinks at the hotel was very expensive.
We would go back to the costa del sol but never to the bali hotel
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
, May 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Mike Roberts-Wales ( 56)
Resort Rating: No rating
Accommodation Rating: No rating
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have not stayed in this hotel myself but I have just spoken to some friends who have recently returned & they had a terrible incident in Hotel Bali.
Some person or persons entered their room while they were out one evening & stole everything, they even stole the safe with all their documents in.
Whoever it was took everything away in their suitcases, they were left with absolutely nothing but the clothes they were wearing.
How the hell can anyone walk out of a hotel with 2 suitcases & a safe & not be noticed
Thomson Holidays
's & Hotel Bali did very little to help except transfer them to the
Hotel Riviera as a good will gesture, but considering they were now without
money, passports & tickets home, that wasn't much help at all.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : Andy Cremins 43, 44
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed for a week and had a great time. It is a big hotel but we found the service excellent. Be aware it is about a 100 yard walk up a hill to get to from the main road. We had no problems with security and heard no reports. The immediate area is full of bars and restaurants. I would recommend to anyone who stays to make a point of visiting Buddy's Bar situated in Plaza de Ole (which is behind Barclays Bank). Its run by an English couple called Malcolm and Jackie. In the week we were there they made us feel welcome and were good fun the Bar has a great atmosphere and a good variety of music is played. Give it a try !!!
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
march 06
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : mark & dawn 43/37
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
the bali was a nice friendly hotel, breakfast was great, but the evening meal seemed a bit samey allthough good quality. if you are under 60 dont go to this resort between nov and march as it is full of pink rinse brigade although they were lovely and we met some nice peeps we didn't seem to fit in would go back but not untill may at least. tried 24hr square bit of a rip off they kept sayin that you got 2-4-1 but as they kept givin us shooters we were so drunk we didnt realise that we were paying nearly double.
marina was absolutely gorgeus loads of very nice restaurants went in an italian caulled mama leoni's excellent food and service.well worth a walk to there. if you are up for walkin you can walk into next resort toromolinos plenty of good bars and cafes to be found.just down from hotel at the botom of cardiac hill which isn't as bad as they say there is a fab indian caulled the noor mahal it was recomended on this site and well worth a visit try the chicken tikka and cheese starter it's to die 4. if you turn right at botom of hill there is a pub caulled buzby's fun pub worth a visit, especially on mon evening when there is a drag act on terri fox if you dont like swearing then don't go but if it does't bother you, you will av a fab night.
there seems to be a few time share touts never been caught all the times iv'e been abroad up to now some of them seem to av a different approach to get you talking to them. beach about 10 min walk from hotel,
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- March 2006
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : David Fletcher - East Yorks ( 57,48 )
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Lets keep it short this was a winter break. The weather was fine and sunny and the temprature was 20 plus so no complaints there.
The hotel is a 3 star which is about right, the hill up is a bind but manageable about 50 yards. Maid service every day with clean towels and bed linen excellent. Food is alot better than the reports lead one to belive.
The resort is quite at this time of year but still enjoyable to walk around during the day and quite a few bars open on a night with entertainment.
Well worth the visit and will go again.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompsons - feb 2006
Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : maureen wareing - newcastle (56,36)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
i have been going to the bali hotel for the past nine years and used to think very highly of it. The rooms are very clean, the staff are friendly, plenty of entertainment, food is excellent but the sercurity is very very poor. This last holiday i had my jewellery stolen and so did my daughter, it was taken from our appartment whilst we were out on a day trip to gibraltar. the thompson reps told us to go back to them the following morning which isn't very good when they are supposed to have 24 hour care available. we were told to go to police station to pick up report that had been prepared.
apart from this huge disappointment i would return to benalmadena but not to the bali hotel
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland - jan/feb 2006
Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : k&m - cambs (62,53)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having stayed at this hotel twice before (last time 2yrs ago) we were looking forward to a fortnight away from the English weather. Still as good as it has been although, some meals were of a lower standard but did not detract from the overall quality.
Reps were brilliant and were always ready to stop and have a natter. Did not go down to the entertainmant, not really our cup of tea. Best place to buy your water is from the MAS supermarket in Bonanza Square, out of hotel and head uphill rather than down and follow road to left opposite the Spar. 5litres of water was 53cents, cheapest we have ever seen it. Because of our departure time on the Sunday we decided to walk out and have an English Sunday Lunch - went to Cheeky Monkey and glad we did - best sunday lunch we have had out anywhere. To find it, go down Cardiac Hill and turn left, keep going past the new underground car park and Mcdonalds - it is not far from here and well worth the walk and the 5.90euro for the meal. (it was the rep, Lee, who told us about it. For drinks to bring home try the shop just before the windmill roundabout - turn right at the bottom of the hill and keep walking - he also accepts English and Scottish money - however, check the rate of exchange he is giving - we found the excursion shop and money exchange a few shops away gave the best deal.
Would definitely return to this hotel again - in actual fact we are looking at a 28night stay next winter.
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: DIY - Jan 2006
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : John Robson - Darlington (41,38,8,5,2)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Didn't actually stay at the Bali this time but have stayed there twice
before. Went to the Bali a few nights for the entertainment as we found
Benalmadena dead in January. Surprised that the hotel which is a 'Thomson Holidays
super-family' hotel in summer becomes a 'Thomson Holidays
Young at Heart' in winter. Good
marketing I think. The older folk really know how to have fun.
The shows were pretty good, but the dancing afterwards was even better - the same songs with the same regulars with their line-dancing renditions of Una Paloma Blanca, Akey Breaky Heart, etc. Class! (The hotel runs classes to teach the actions during the day). Most people staying at the hotel seemed to stay in at night. The resort was a little lively during the day - people walking around, but at nightfall most people disappeared. Some of the poor restaurants had no diners. There are too many English bars here anyway. A massive difference seeing the resort in winter instead of the last couple of times in August. But on the positive side we went to Tivoli on the Sunday it opens and never queued at all. Similar experience at other tourist places. And the nightmare road at the bottom of the Bali was quiet and for once safe to cross... Agree totally with the point about the pillars at the Bali. Time something was done about updating the decor in the function room.
Will return again I'm sure. (By the way, we stayed at the Benal Beach at the bottom of Paloma Park - wish we hadn't...).
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Hotel Bali - Benalmadena
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Dec 2005
Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Susan & Stephen Hart
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed at the hotel Bali arriving on Xmas Day out room was on the sea facing side and had an uninterrupted sea view. the room was cleaned daily and towels etc were also changed daily. On the Xmas night we were treated to a lovely evening with free wine a an excellant buffet. Food overall at the hotel was a very good standard and lots of choice available. The entertainment staff