Skanes Hotels and Apartments A - R
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - September 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Tracy & Ali Cairns - Newcastle (33,34)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at our hotel at midnight on Sun 11th Sept 2005. We checked in and were given bright yellow hospital style wrist bands. This was to show staff that we were all inclusive and other guests that we were BRITISH! The following day we had a look around as it was raining.
The hotel and complex is designed over a large area. The rooms are chalets in blocks of 4 all on ground level. The rooms were clean and basicaly somewhere to shower, sleep and get changed. The toilets smell constantly, especially at night as the water drains away. We had 1 cockroach in our room over the 2 weeks, which wasn't bad going. The lizards are cute and are good at getting insects and pests from your room so leave them alone if you have one.
The food was very repetative, cold and i would have to say none Tunisian. We waited a full week just to see a bowl of cous cous! The bars in the hotel or should i say bar was diabolical. You were served drinks in little plastic tumblers and were allowed 2 at a time. The local spirits stripped the lining from your stomach and my husband and myself were very ill after drinking the vodka. The soft drinks were flat, cheap, nasty and also were avoided after 2 days.If you wanted a bottle of water to take to your room you had to buy this from the shop at 1 dinar (50p) but we paid to go All Inclusive so this proved to be a real pain.
The animators(entertainment staff) were very good and were on the go from 9am to 11pm. The bar staff were very funny and if you were lucky you were given glasses and as many drinks as you could carry. Luckily, we were. They seemed to respect the British and i can understand why. The other guests from other countries were so rude and very ignorant. They had pink, blue or white wrist bands. A little note for you British. "Stick together!"
All in all we were very disappointed with the hotel and we were told that First Choice have infact pulled out of this hotel next year and Thompsons are taking over. I would go back just to see if anything has been done to improve the complex. I would suggest more bars, another pool and maybe a few restaurants on site. They have a beach bar that serves drinks and snacks but only till 6pm. This isn't good for those picky eaters and children! The management should also take more of an interest in what the guests have to say instead of swanning around doing nothing!!!!
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Club Skanes Gardens - Skanes
Operator and Date: may 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Keith Williams - Cardiff ( 57,50,65,62,41,38,13,40,36,7,5,37,32
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just came back from Skanes Garden, and realy enjoyed the resort.
The anamators are great and do the best they can with the limited resources that they have.
Look out for " Ben " realy great guy,but they are all so very friendly.
when you go in the site shops haggle for anything that is not priced, " they love it".
I'm a very picky eater and I found something to eat every meal, anybody that comes away hungry when all inclusive has only themselves to blame.
The only set back that I can forsee is that there is only one bar for drinks in the hotel,so you need to stock up just ask for a couple at the time.
If you can do the camel trip with Ali Baba it was real good fun,and you get food and drink as well.
I would go back any time, and there were a dozen of us.
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Club Skanes Gardens - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : caroline david ryan sean
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
don't bother. food disgusting. rooms fairly clean. communal toilets foul was nearly sick! flies, flies and more flies.only good thing jetski and parascending about 7 pound each on beach.
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Diar El Andalous - Skanes
Operator and Date: Panarama Nov 2006
Opinion submitted in December 2006 by : Hayden McGurk, Co. Dublin, 20
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
We arrived at the airport around midnight. Lovely well kept marble entrance.
Make sure you have a pen on the plane as you have to fill out a visitors card that you hand in soon as you go through passport control
When you come out the airport, you think its nice people wanting to take your bags to your coach, but we soon learnt its all for money as the man was very rude about it.
We booked our holiday, as accomodation on arrival which was fine as we were guaranteed 4* at least.
We got to the hotel and it seemed the hotel didn't know we were coming but it was soon sorted and we went to our rooms.
Lovely and well kept but our room was freezing. Two days later we went to ask for the heating to be sorted out, but their reply was there was nothing that can be done.
There was one man in the hotel Ihhmed, most delightful and helpful in every kind of way.
Food- Were a group of young people, and the menu looked okay, but tasted awful, I could not rate the food what so ever. There was 1 nice place in Sousse called The Salon bar. (looks like texas lol)
It should cost around 6 dinars in a cab. After 9pm the taxi tells you night time tariff which is 50% extra of the price thats on the meter. Make sure the cabs have the meter on. Just ask kindly, if they tell you its broke, just say you will get another cab and the driver will quickly fix it.
Ladies should walk around in groups, never alone. Just to be safe.
We never seen any trouble their as their was a huge police presence.
Their was no entertainment in the hotel. Just a normal day of animation by one young lad.
The Marina is 15 minute walk away and has lots of shops/restaurants/boat trips you can go on.
Don't feel threatened by the people, their just doing their job, kindly say no thanks. Their is a tiny carnival there, but not very safe, we are all 20-23 and asked them to stop the pirate ship and we were not safely secured inside it.
In the Shops, bargain with the shop keepers, I had the most fun doing this, Always offer third/half of price they originally offer and go from their.
Weather was nice for November but in general, tunisia was very quiet and definately not a place for children/young people especially in the Winter.
Holiday Rep from My Travel - top notch - Liz from Cork! and young girl Jeanette - Liverpool!
If your travelling with Panarama/My Travel/Airtours go and watch the Rep Show- Life is a Cabaret - very good atmosphere.
Oh yeah, I wasted more money on taxi's and tipping people, just be careful with your money.
All in all was okay but won't be returning anytime soon.
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Hotel Edan Club - Skanes
Operator and Date: med holidays- august 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : janice reynolds 38,43,15,12,7.hotel eden skanes,tunisia
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
well we have all just arrived back from the edan club and i would strongly recommend that you dont go.
really because this hotel is for germans, in the hotel there were 800 germans to us five english people 3 of them being my children, the food is disgusting the same slop dished out to you every day and it was all labelled in german so u didnt even know what the slop was. the children didn,t eat at all .this caused my daughter who is diabetic massive problems.
the animation team at the hotel we can only assume where excellent as all the germans seemed to be having a great time with them...if only we could speak german we would have joined in.the same applied to the childrens animation team,it was awful watching our children watching other kids having fun whilst not being able to join in because of the language barrier.
as mentioned before the food was slop to say the least.every day witout fail,twice a day even,the was turkey and veal ,at least we think thats what it was,on the menu.because of this ,and the feeling of isolation,we had no joice but to eat out for our meals.in order to do so we spend a forune on taxis to get to the nearest town,sousse.it was either get a cab or wait however long for the bus.it maddens us to think we spent the extra money on an all inclusive hotel and ended up spending more money than we would of going self catering.
its just as well both my partner and i are not big drinkers as you couldnt get anything other than watery beer and vinegar wine.so we couldnt even drown our sorrows whilst we where there.
if your unfortunate to have to go there try sneaking into some of the other hotels on the beach front,you might get away with using their facilities for a few days...until you get caught.but its worth it for a few days away from the eden club hotel.oh and the other thing no-one has yet mentioned is the hotel is no more than a quarter of a mile away from an electricity station which dumps waste into the nearby river which then stinks like rotten eggs which then wafts over the hotel every night and then comes down your air condidioning system and stinks your room out while you sleep.
oh and if you like getting up at 4.30 every morning theres no need to set your alarm as the people passing your room with their towels to claim there space by the pool will no doubt wake you up without fail.
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Kat McCann - Yorkshire (22,21)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Not recommended.
for starters the resort is full of germans some are so ignorant
i went for a holiday in the sun with the girls and found out it was a nightmare...the staff pestered you and followed you everywhere...really creeped us out
The room was full of ants, the air conditioning didnt work, the sheets were stained and the the bathroom smelt like a public toilet!!..also just to add to this wonderful room dont think you are going to get any sleep until at least 2am every night because the nightclub plays music that loud its impossible to sleep!
the reception staff were ignorant and even charged you to call your rep
the food was bland and full of flys so we didnt eat any of it all week!!
the beach looks really nice from afar but when u actually step foot on it, it is full of cigarette ends
overall i couldnt wait to get back home and honestly would never go back to tunisia..MY ADVICE IS PLEASE DO NOT BOOK THIS HOTEL..
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : M Lindsay & Partner - Glasgow (61, 66)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I must say on that reading some of the comments made by other holidaymakers on the above hotel gave me sleepless nights, and if I could have cancelled my holiday at such short notice I would have. However I am pleased that I did not; we thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff at the hotel could not have been more friendly or helpful, in particular the waiters on the beach. One in particular was always jolly and smiling. There was plenty of entertainment and the Animation Team were brilliant and worked very hard. If you prefer a quiet night of entertainment then go to the American Bar, in which a very nice man sings and plays on a keyboard. The hotel was well presented and kept very clean, although the room we were allocated could have been a bit cleaner and the maid a bit more enthusiastic to clean it. The towels are past their sell-by date (very grey in colour) but clean. The small toilet floor was never mopped during the two weeks we stayed.
One thing I did not agree with was paying 3 dinars for sunbeds in the garden near the beach front.
We found no fault with the restaurant, although it does get very crowded between 8.00-8.30 pm.
You can visit Monastir on the Noddy Train which picks you up at the hotel. Plenty of taxis outside the hotel, but haggle a price to your destination.
In summary, we thoroughly enjoyed Tunisia and would go back again.
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Discounts) Panorama - June 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Ken Thomson Holidays
- Manchester
(33,29,4)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
If you are looking for a quiet holiday with no frills then this is perhaps the place for you. The resort of Skanes is situated close to Monastir and only 5 minutes transfer from the airport. Despite it's proximity to the airport, we were never bothered by noise.
There is very little to do in Skanes, your social time, food etc is all hotel based - if you want anything more you will have to go to Monastir or Sousse.
The hotel itself is tired, it desperately needs redecorating and some modernisation. Check-in was smooth despite arriving late at night but they did not have a bed for our daughter and then brought us a cot (for a 4 year old). When we eventually got a bed, you could not move in the tiny room that we had been given. The next morning we asked for a bigger room and were moved without any hassle to a room twice the size which was far better. There is a section of the hotel which is extremely poor accommodation, the main part of the hotel is of an average to good standard.
The food was particularly poor for the 2 weeks we were there. Based on a buffet system, the dining room is overcrowded and the food mainly caters for the French and German tastes. Now I am not saying I wanted fish and chips, in fact all I wanted was some taste to the food - it was bland and stodgy and not of particularly good quality.
Drinks and entertainment were good and the staff should be praised for their helpful attitude. The reception staff, cleaners and waiters were all excellent and extremely friendly.
The locals in Tunisia can be a little intimidating, expecially in the Souks (Markets). The will grab you, they will hassle you and they will pay perticular attention to your children. They don't mean any harm by it, they are just trying to make a living from their businesses. Be prepared for some pretty hard bargaining and always try to get them down to about half the original price when you buy something!
You can't take local currency in with you so you need to take Sterling or Euros in cash and travellers cheques.
I hope this information os useful to anyone who reads it.
All in all, it was a good holiday which we all enjoyed.
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Discounts) Panorama 4* deal May 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : J Long 67, 65
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
No way a 4*hotel compared to nearby 4* hotels would rate 2*.Beach fair but a little dirty with plenty of hawkers.
Food good and waiters excellent.Rooms large but not clean,sheets only changed after requesting,towel change irratic,blankets smelly.Drinks cheaper in adjacent 5* hotel.Entertainment average but other hotels give you a choice.
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
november 2004
Opinion submitted in Dec 2004 by : nicholson family tyne and wear 2 adults 1 child age 10
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
we went to the elhana in skanes very worried about some of the comments made by others when we got there we found it really nice a good hotel really clean all the staff were brilliant really helpful and really friendly. both me and my 10 year old daughter are vegi and the first day we got there we told our waiter he went and seen the chef and every day the waiter brought our food what the chef had made special for us it was lovely.
the hotel is a older hotel but thats nice we went next door to look at the sahara beach a newer hotel the rooms were small and it was a big hotel and really noisy i think your holiday is what you make it we really enjoyed our stay its our 3rd time to tunisia differant resorts and we dont normaly go back to the same place but we will go back to the skanes elhana we could not fault it. we had a great time.
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Discounts) Panorama Sept 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Ray & Eileen
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Skanes is a suburb of Monastir and 5 minutes from the airport however we were not bothered by aircraft noise. This holiday revolves around the hotel as this is a purpose built resort with no local Tunisian feel to it. The hotel is in need of some renovation, it had a 'weary' feel too it, which a lick of paint would go a long way to resolve.
The food was basic but plentiful (we went half board - good job as nowhere else to eat locally). Rooms were a decent size and kept clean but again needed some money spent on them. Staff were friendly & helpful although the evening entertainment provided by them was , shall we say, amateurish.
Sounds like we didn't enjoy this hotel but we did, its a good place for a relaxing holiday if you like sitting around a pool, sitting on the beach and a quiet drink in the evening.
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: direct-july/august 2004
Opinion submitted in Apr 2005 by : campbell family-liverpool-(42,39,17,12)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I don't know where to begin,other than to say, don't go there.... Iam really sorry but this is the truth. We went hoping for a relaxing holiday but to begin with this was not what we got.
On arriving, the reception area was something from the 60's, we wouldn't have minded that,but it was the terrible damp smell, everything looked so old. Anyway we thought, oh well give it a go.Our room's were awful, the door frame was broken were it had been forced open, the room was dirty, smelly and well discusting.The bedding was stained and smelly, the brown toilet room with it's orange tiles, had an ants nest, ( hardly surprising as it was rotten dirty and I mean dirty ). The ants path, trooped across the top of our beds and along the floor, to wooden patio door, which the handle was broken and did not lock. On the first morning when we woke,our suitcases and bags wre covered completely with ants. The view from our room was the only good thing, it was straight on to the beach, it looked lovely.
The pool was dirty and dangerous,the day before we got there a man had died trying to get out! although the staff, were trying to play this fact down.
We desided to try the beach,which was just past the pool area, the sand was lovely it looked so pretty.However the jellyfish made it impossible to swim in the sea, we were all stung really bad, particually my son, his sting was massive, it covered the whole of the top of his thigh.
The restaurant/buffet area, was also dirty the food was horrible,left out with flies all over it,just really yakie!
We complained and because we agreed to keep quiet and not mention to the other guest's(and the hotel manager,as not to ofend him ! ) We were moved to another resort, which was Port el Kantoui, here is rea lly lovely honestly...but skanes has nothing there, it was just across the road from the airport,and seemed industrious really.
Iam sorry I've gone on so long, but after all we save all year for a holiday and I wish someone could have warned us, about this nightmare of a place....
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Hotel El Hana - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Discounts) Panorama - Date Not Specified
Opinion submitted in Feb 2004 by : Roxy Day Peterborough (12, 13, 38 , 39)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hello
I'm a 12year old girl; my brother (13) and I had an absolutely fantastic time at Skanes El Hana. My parents have said ' it is the best holiday we have ever had.' We enjoyed our selves' everyday. The pool was magnificent and the view from our rooms were stunning.
Evening entertainment was superb. The first night was so enjoyable that we didn't miss a single one after that. Bingo was every night and was great fun for everyone, especially if you win (like me!!!).
I am a very picky eater and my parents were worried that I would lose a lot of weight whilst my stay in Tunisia, but infact, I ate a lot because the buffet was inspirational. Every night the food was different but always at top quality. If you did not like what you had you could go back for more whenever you liked.
The activities were fantastic. There was always something to do. We didn't get around to doing so many things because there was just too much to choose from. Crazy golf, water polo, volleyball, table tennis, dance, keep fit bowls, etc.
The beach was amazing. There were many water activities. Getting towed behind a boat in rubber dinghies, parascending, banana boat and best of all jet skis, all at a very low price. Both my parents found the prices reasonable cheap. The beach was practically joined to the hotel this was very convenient.
The pool was massive and fantastic, with a separate part for water polo. The inside pool was also brilliant and always warm. You'll have to be aware of the ants around the pool, they nip!!! But it is all part of being in a foreign country.
Sun beds were always available around the pool and on the beach. There was never a fight for the beds!!! You also always had service around the pool or on the beach. You could order a drink or one of the fabtabulouse pizzas, given to you very hot.
You can visit the other hotels along the stretch freely at any time and visit all of the shops. Many shops to visit in the other hotels and many souvenirs.
We also had many brilliant days out, coliseums, markets, etc. When you visit the markets, try to avoid making eye contact (or wear dark glasses) with the shopkeepers because they will be quite persistant to get you into their shop and make you buy something, although it is all part of the culture and experience.
We are definitely going back in a year or two and I can't wait.
Roxy
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El Mouradi - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook March 2007
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : John & Ann- Glasgow (47)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Our first time in Tunisia and was very impressed with accommodation. Nice Hotel and staff very friendly good selection of foods at all times, pool was nice and big but to cold to go in at this time year. Only complaint was having to pay 1 Dinar(0.40) for mat for sun bed I know its small amount but all inclusive it should be free there is also a happy hour beteween 6pm & 7pm which is not advertised very good and all international drinks are free. Rooms cleaned every day with all fresh towels and beds changed. Transfer time is less than 10 minutes from airport and great golf course across road from hotel. Sousse is only 10 minutes away by bus and taxi.Both are right outside hotel Taxi return fare abot 12 Dinar (£5) bus is 2 Dinar return for 2 (0.80) both go same route and I would advise going in by bus as bus drops you right of in centre of Sousse. If going in try Medinha local market for diffrent shopping experience.If not wanting all the hassle of the market there is a big shop called Houla Centre which is very reasonable and on 3 levels where you can just look around.
All in all I would reccommend the El Mouradi although in the height of Summer it might be very busy
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Thomas Cook - July 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Harts 39, 38, 15, 7 & Sheffields 42, 39, 13
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
What can I say as a mixed group of ages we found this to be the BEST holiday we have had, the children had a fantastic time in the water park on the complex. The other pools and areas were massive and spotlessly clean.
The rooms were massive with air con on all the time, the rooms were cleaned every day, my only niggle was that we were only supplied with one toilet roll which didn't last long with 4 of us.
The food was absolutley fantastic we never struggled to eat, there was a roast dinner every day, plain or fancy food, the childrens section catered for children pizzas, chicken nuggets, pancakes etc. The pool bar had a variety of snacks freshly made, these were pizzas, salads, chips, burgers, sandwich rolls, pannini's. you could get large bottles of water over the bar and drinks are limited to two per person. But a little TIP for you is if you tip about 5-10 dinar to your regular bar staff and waiter you will not want for anything, as soon as your drink is half empty they turn up at your table with refills!!!!!.
If you want a holiday for shopping nearby then sousse is the nearest shopping resort but the complex had a mini market and jewellery stalls etc on the complex, we had no need to go anywhere else has the complex and animation team catered for all our needs.
We did go on the Camel trip and Paragliding on the beach but be aware sellers in the complex hassle you for the first few days just say no, they charge more, make sure you book with your rep
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Thomas Cook - July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Steve D - Witham, Essex (34, 31, 6, 4)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Well we got back 2 days ago and must say that we actually really enjoyed our time there although the hotel is getting very busy.
You must be up between 6 & 6.30 for a poolside sunbed - just set the alarm go and put your towls down, grab a cup of tea and then go back to bed. If you can, get a room between 701 - 900 as these are in the quietest block (nearest the beach) - you could be near the animation stage otherwise and it's very loud between 8.00pm and 11.00pm so no early nights for the kids. We actually thought the food was good - bizarley the cabbage in particular!! Breakfast was a bit of a mad one with all the french just pushing in but do the same and it won't bother you too much (don't eat the scrambled eggs though ;-) )
I really suggest you do the Arabian Feast night and the Camel Caravan, great fun. We also did the trip to Tunis and Carthage which was good and interesting to get out and see the countryside a bit (although 1.5hrs each way in the coach was a little dull).
The staff were all nice and friendly and we found everywhere clean and the room was refreshed everyday - but make a point of asking the maid to change the sheets otherwise they may not get done until day 8 - and with the heat and your burnt skin peeling they do need changing earlier!! You WILL need to start with a factor 30 at least for the first few days or you will turn very pink very quickly even if you do tan easily.
The plumbing in the room was excellent but the mens loos by the bar and the slides kept blocking regularly. Sometimes the mens loos by the slides was covered by a couple of centimteres of pee and sh*t - obviously the kids then walk straight in to the pool and you will notice it by the end of the day.
Overall it was nice - just don't expect a 4/5 star.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice, July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Lisa Langford, Wrexham (38,35,13,10,8)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Arrived home last week after 2 weeks at the Houda Beach. There are good and bad things to say about this holiday. Firstly couldnt fault the weather, absolutely gorgeous, got hotter and hotter. The pools are brilliant. Huge, and nice just to sit at pool edge when it gets too hot on the sunbeds. My kids enjoyed going to the slide pool. The sea and beach, which is just a walk through the gardens, is nice. I have never felt such a warm sea it was like a warm bath on some days.
My daughter and husband went up on paraglider for about £16, this is also from hotel beach. My eldest daughter (13 years) loved going with Momo to the Junior Club every day from 10-12 and 3-5. My 2 youngest daughters never joined the younger kids club, it wasnt really their thing, they much preferred playing in pools all day. There were loads of sun beds but did have to get up quite early if you wanted to 'towel' a sunbed by a parasol (I was up at 6.15, but there werent too many taken at that time of the day.
The entertainment was quite good. The entertainers worked really hard. From about 10 till 12 there would be day time activities then about 3 till 5 (pool games, volley ball etc. The entertainers would then be back in bar area at about 8 mingling with guests, then they would go down for kids mini desco before the main entertainment would start at about 9.45.The entertainment would consist of dance shows or comedy shows or karaoke etc etc. The dance routines were excellent, and like I said, not sure when they found time to practice these. Sam has got a very professional team and should be very proud of them (hope Adel's back and Geo's leg are feeling better). Our rooms basic but were were cleaned daily and towels changed daily, maids also made funny shapes with kids nighties, which was nice, and they were always very friendly. We were a bed short when we got to our rooms, but within minutes of going to reception, there was a bed brought to our rooms.
Now for the down side of the hols. Because of the size of the complex and the number of guests, the queues for food in the evening restaurant(on the first food sitting), and at the poolside bar in the day, and at breakfast, were terrible, they really need to sort this as this was what every one we spoke to complained about. Also they need to sort out the drinks machine by the pool, it took ages to pour the fizzy drinks which of course made the queues worse. Also my husband is a beer drinker and was not at all impressed with the beer (to put it politely)- he said it was the worst he has ever had, and I was not very impressed with the spirits, they did taste quite weak (watered). Also the drinks very often ran out at evening entertainment bar before the entertainment had actually finished, so you would have to wait for a drink until you went back to other bar.
We didnt go on any exursions, but we did go for a night out to Port El Kantoui. It turned out to be more expensive than we expected as they will not take more than 4 passengers in taxi so we had to have 2 taxis and the price increases by 50% after 9. Also only found 1 pub that served alcohol other than beer in Port El Kantoui called the Irish pub. We also went into Sousse to the Medina one day to buy our presents. Haggling was very funny, they will try and take you into their shops and make you sit down and have a drink, an experience for sure!! Outside the hotel (to the left) is a supermarket and a bar/italian restaurant. We did go there one night for a meal, but didnt stay long as flies were terrible and food wasnt very good, so I wouldnt bother with that. The flies in hotel complex were not really a problem as they did spray something that smelled like petrol, but it seemed to work.
Overall i thought it was a good holiday, kids had a nice time, only my husband who wasnt impressed.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: july 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : george markham 57 56 53 53
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
we have been to tunisia 3 times before and this is the first time all inclusive
the houda hotel is very clean on the inside. pool area clean but the food is so boring we where there for 2 weeks and turkey was on the menu for at least 10 days
wanted breakfast at 6.30 am when resturant was was open but could only get cerals and coffee until 7am.
the hotel has its own water park which we tried one morning. only the once, we went in at 10 am when it open and saw rats near the sun loungers. did not go back in there reported it to the reps she said they knew and had put poision down
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : 32,42
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I was really worried after reading reviews, but it is not as bad as what some people have said.It is typical all inclusive food, entertainment and its in Tunisia. It is not the sort of place to go to if you want to go out every night to different pubs & clubs.
When you get there, you are sat in the bar area, you are given a wrist band and then given a meal ticket. You are unable to get into your room until you check on a white board which tells you if the room is ready, when it shows your room number, you then have to collect your key from the recpetion, this is the weirdest check in we have ever experienced but its a very busy hotel, we waited and waited but was then given a different room as there was a problem with the previous occupants, we finally got key and did not have any more patience to wait for porter, we took bags ourselves to room (be warned there are no lifts and lots of stairs)
You can sit where you want a breakfast but other mealtimes you are given an allocated table. It is quieter if you go for the later sitting as not so many kids but we were sat on a table with another english couple. It does not seem a reason to moan but when you have your evening meal, you want to feel as if you are on holiday and having some privacy. We moved our table on the second night but our waiter seemed very upset about this. We had read to give him a tip and we did this but it's not really necessary (you get your own food, you get your own drinks and you can't sit where you want???).
Food is okay, as it a good mixture. We also had two nights out at the "Sounds & lights" and the "Boudouin Feast" - the later is definately the better night. You can also have two nights at the a la carte restaurant. If you are only staying for a week, at least you have some different food!
Unfortunately, flies are on the food at breakfast and on you when you sunabathe. The only place they dont bother you is at the beach. I got 2 bites (which is not bad for me) but then somewhere between sat evening and the flight on sun morning, I got a total of 12 bites and I'm now in agony!!
The place is lovely to go to if you just want to lie on a sunbed and do nothing all day. This suited us down to the ground. If you want something to do - there is loads and its great if you have kids. Overall, we had a nice week in the sun and had a great time as it's not far from the airport and the staff are friendly. Our only tip would be to take a bottle of some decent alcohol as the vodka does not have any vodka in it! The G&Ts are good but the red wine is the only thing which will give you a headache.
Disco is good place to get drink after midnight but its a shame its not busier. The venue is great but not used as much as it could be, the hotel is aimed at families.
Reps are good and I would not hesitate to recommend the hotel to other people.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: June 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Vanessa - Dundee, scotland (party of 6)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Well after returning from a fantastic 2 week holiday at the Houda, we are all very sad to be home. It was the best holiday we have had by far for a long time. The hotel was beautiful and very clean. The rooms were cleaned daily and the made service was to an exceptionally high standard. There were clean towels every day amn we were often greeted with swans and floral patterns made from the towel etc. Lovely!!
We had young children with us and the hotel mini club couldn't have made more of an effort, they were attentive and nothing was ever an effort from them, they were always smiling and done so much with the kids. A special thank you to Olfa, Yasmine and Hannah....the children were in tears the day we left as they grew very fond of them.
Also a special mention to the animation team who work around the clock with a permanent smile on there faces. There was a wide variety of activities every day including, water aerobics, water polo, beach volley ball, archery, darts, football....but it was all fun and they all made an effort to make you feel welcome. A special thank you to Geo who made our stay very memorable with his charm and sense of humor, he always went out of his way to please everyone. We all miss him very much. Sam the entertainment manager also he was always looking out for the guests and ensuring the team were doing everything possible to please the guests.
I would definetly recoomend this hotel for families, couples or groups of friends looking for a fun packed holiday...Have fun!!! I intend to go back in august and cant wait!!!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First choice - June 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Gemma Ward - Wolverhampton (30,33)):
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
After reading some of the reviews on this site i was PETRIFIED!!! i asked my husband to cancel the holiday, Thankfully he declined cuz we had a FABOULOUS time.....
Weather was HOT, HOT, HOT!
The pools were great, although you had to fight for a sunbed BLOODY GeXm£%s!!! One morning i made my husband get the towels out at 5am!!
People were lovely especially MOMO (AKA Charlie) He is the funniest man i have ever met, he works for the parasailing crew on the beach but can be found around the pool tryin to encourage the LAZY SUN LOVIN holiday makers to have a go on the parasailing PLEASE have a go, it is FANTASTIC!!!! and very cheap at £6 each!
PAUL, THERESA and THE CREW made our holiday the best!!
BUGS: not many flies or mossies at the beginning of the week, but as the temperature went up, the ammount of flies and mossies also increased! I got BIT to DEATH and at present 04/07/07 am still itching and have lumps all over me!
ALCOHOL: Bit of a let down as choices were limited, and the glasses were small, 1 person = 2 glasses, Queues were long and GeXm£%s were pushing in as usual!!
We ended up drinking our own Bacardi and coke as we couldn't be bothered to queue.
FOOD: Lots of choices, try everything... but again Queues were long and BLOODY
GeXm£%s pushing in as usual! Not many flies in the dining room but at the snack bar there are LOTS i couldn't even stand near the snack bar as it was making me sick!
TOP TIP when at the self serve scoop the food from the bottom of the pile, me and the Wad did and we didn't get sick like some at the hotel!
Looking back the holiday was worth the money we paid, we are returning to the Houda at the end of July with the kids in toe, but this time i am prepared i am taking Marmite to protect my lovely tan from all the lumps and bumps from those mossie bites, 1 spoonful a day will keep the mossies at bay! 1 large bottle of Bacardi, large glasses to go up the bar with. Things i am leaving behind... my MANNERS, I too will push in at the bar, shove people out of the way to get my hands on the biggest piece of chicken! OH CAN'T WAIT
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: sunset june 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : paul christine 45, 46
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Ideal if your just wanting to relax and do nothing, the beach was great although you did have to put your towel on a sunbed to be able to get one, the sea was dirty with sea weed which got worse as the day went on, never ventured anywhere apart from the safari across the road.
The Hotel staff was very friendly, especially in the restaurant, the rooms were cleaned every day with clean towels, only down fal in our room was the only plug socket was in the bathroom, not very good when youv'e got naturally curly hair that you want straight, it soon curls up with the damp air,
would definatly go here again, just for a lazy week
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: MY TRAVEL - JUNE 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : JEN GALLAGHER (17 IN PARTY - AGE RANGING 18-50)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Firstly I would say that if you have already booked up - don't panic too much. I wouldn't go back but it is bearable.
I would say the main problem in the hotel stemmed from the fact that there didn't appear to be working air conditioning anywhere in the hotel except your room - and the air conditioning in the rooms was only turned on the week before we arrived as it is only available from June to September.
The dining room was far too small to accomodate the number of people in the hotel ( I would hazard a guess at about 1000 people by the time we were leaving) You had to eat in shifts - early or late and were allocated a table for the duration of our stay. There were 17 people in our party and we needed 3 tables to accomodate us. Almost every time we went in to eat they had given our table to someone else - at one point they had triple booked our table so two other parties also thought they had our table. This went on until the last night and we were there for two weeks.
There was little or no air conditioning in the dining room which meant you were sweating all through your meal (it was around 45 degrees when we were leaving) and the windows were wide open meaning the flies were horrendous - crawling on the food - buzzing around you as you ate. The thing that annoyed me that they obviously did have air conditioning as on 2 nights they turned it on but the rest of the time they just left us to sweat.
Basically the hotel was far too crowded - they had to rooms to house all the people but the rest of the hotel could not cater for the numbers. You had to queue for everything and there were only 2 toilets - each with only 3 cubicles for the entire hotel. I have to say the pool was very nice and for the most part not too crowded as it was very big but in general you just felt as though you were at the zoo in this hotel as there were at least 100 people around you all the time - no time for peace or privacy.
GET A SAFETY DEPOSIT BOX - my fiance and I did but his cousin did not and had £50 stolen from his room which he never saw again. We were not impressed at the cleaner as she frequently ignored the do not disturb sign on our door and walked in when we were asleep quite a few times - (we only were lying in until 10am most mornings which i don't think is unreasonable on holiday) On our last day we did not have to check out until 12pm but she came in at quarter past 11 and pulled the sheets from under us to go and wash (we think she was trying to catch us to get a tip) Another few members of our party were actually asked for money by their cleaner.
Our main problem came at the end of our holiday - our flight times had been changed about 3 weeks before we left - we were not flying out until 5am on the Monday morning but had to check out of the hotel at 12pm on the Sunday giving us over 12 hours in the hotel with no room. We were told by the travel agent we would be able to keep rooms on and we had decided to keep 3 on for the 17 of us - until 6pm as is the norm - so we could have a day by the pool but shower and freshen up before travelling. We were originally told we could have 3 rooms by the reception. Then they told us we couldnt have any at all and would have to pay £100 per room for an extra night. Then we sorted it out with the rep and managed to get the 3 rooms but on the morning of our departure the refused and would only give us 1 room until 5pm for 17 of us to shower and dress in which was horrific.
They also went into one of our rooms and just painting the ceiling without even telling the people in the room which I thought was a bit ridiculous.
They had obviously booked out their hotel wanting to get as many people in the door as possible without caring about repeat business - this is generally the feeling throughout the holiday as hey were constantly cutting costs and cutting corners. At about 11pm when we were stuck in the lobby waiting for our bus which was due at 2am they switched all the lights out so we were sitting in the dark with only a few lamps on.
Also watch out for the employees of the hotel that come round and accost you on your sunbeds trying to get you to buy jewellry and other things - they will not leave you alone and you have to be quite rude to get rid of them.
One last warning. At the airport the cleaners won't give you toilet roll unless you tip them - make sure you have a few tissues handy.
I don't think I would go back to Tunisia and I definately wouldn't go back to this hotel.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - May 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Howard Fisher - Rochdale (38)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at the airport and because we had a son in a wheelchair we was helped right from the start. We was taken right to the front and was through in no time. We gave the man a tip because that was a great help to us. Didnt think much of the disabled taxi ( a jeep ) bit we got to the hotel ok. On arrival at the hotel we was greeted by alot of friendly people, also rep etc. The room was very basic but spotlessly clean as was all the hotel. My disabled son was made very welcome and had one of his best holidays. My 5 year old also loved it to. The entertainers were brilliant and friendly people. We would like to say hello to all of them especially Hamida who was great and also Alex, Dido and DJ Imed. We was wel looked after all through. We struggled abit with the food but got through.
All in all a good holiday apart from the bites we got and the annoying flies.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - May 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Joe and Sandra - Glenrothes, Fife (51,51)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We got a bargain break for a week with our local Thomson Holidays
shop beating
First Choice web price - bizarre! So we went with view you only get what
you pay for and we were well pleased with what we got (most of the
time!) We received a nice room with good pool and sea view. The room had
connecting door to next room which is locked but reduces the sound
proofing, as we were unpacking we heard the couple next door making out!
The complex has lovely pool area which is well maintained, the reception
could do with replacing the furniture. We thought the food was of more
than acceptable quality and in plenty supply although not much main
course variety. The A la Carte Tunisian and Italian restaurants are a
welcome change from the canteen culture and noise of the buffet
restaurant which always seemed to have at least 1 screeching child, in
fact I was surprised how many children were actually there considering
it was still school term of which a fair number didn't know how to
behave or rather their parents couldn't care less how they behaved in
the bar area at night. I would imagine that the queue for meals in peak
holiday periods would be a nightmare, they were just managable when we
were there and why is it the French dont have a word for manners? Just
be pushy back to them, they back down every time.
There is little doubt that the spirits are watered down, we brought a vodka sample back with us, I thought beer was fine, we had been to Tunisia before so it came as no surprise. On a couple of occasions they bar ran out of vodka and beer before 11.30pm it seemed as if they allocate so much per day and when it runs out too bad! You get to take 4 drinks away from bar ie 2 per person in your company of 2! Bottled water is part of the AI package and chilled water dispensers had just been installed as well, ice cream is not and costs 1.5 Dinar.
The entertainment team work very hard for a pittance they try their best but their version of comedy is well not that great. They ask you to participate during day but dont hassle you.
The massage is worthwhile you get full Bhuna sauna - seaweed wrap- full massage for £25 and ladies dont be shy as you strip to the waist in front of the young masseur!
A short distance from the hotel is the Safari bar and shops (you pass it on way to hotel upon arriving from airport) you cant miss it model Elephant and Giraffe outside, they seem to do karaoke at night but the big bonus is it has Sky Sports,its £2 (5 Dinar) for a pint of Celtia same stuff as you get in hotel.
Almost forgot pool snack bar opens at 12 and has a good array of fast foods so be greedy and stuff yourself, it is open until 1.30 am for late night snacks!
The disco was typical Tunisian hotel style and tended to play the usual boom boom rubbish, but will give in and play something with a bit melody if you persist.
Take sting relief with you as almost everyone including both of us were bitten by invisible insects during the day, we thought it was because we were close to hedges on 1st day but alas no doesnt matter where you are you will get bitten.
Some places I dont bother with welcome meetings but I thoroughly recommend you go to one in Tunisia especially if you are with First Choice it is well worthwhile very informative, hopefully you wont have any unruly English children running riot as happened at ours.
In all despite the minor problems with alcohol or lack of it we had a good time and felt we got value for money. Didnt feel need to tip bar staff as they didnt do anything to deserve it but tipped the buffet waiter for being nice, the maid and both a la carte restaurants for the personal service. Bought a flower from young Mohammed most nights they are only 2 Dinar he was so exited because his football team Sousse had just won their league and singing the club songs so I tried to teach him to sing the Hearts FC song from my phone - he liked the tune but struggled with the words!
We enjoyed our stay met some nice new friends but probably not stay there again due to screeching children but its a great place for them.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Thomson Holidays
- Easter 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Vicki Liverpool
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was the best holliady of my life. I went to Easter 2007 and will be returning next year.
STAFF-The Hotel was amazing a Big shout out to ADIEL, MADRID, RONALDINIO,ALI, ALEX, KEYBOARD, HAMMED AND ALL THE ANIMATION STAFF. Adiel And Ronaldinio made my holiday FAB. i Love yaz sooo much. you were so funny and kind. You always stopped to talk to Me and Amy. The couldn't help you enough.
POOL- Spotless the waterpark is out of this world propa amazing loved it.
RESTAURANT- The food was amazing lovely everyday.
THE REP- Brilliant told all you needed to know.
BEACH- Very nice got pestered a bit but lovelt to walk along.
ACTIVITIES- Wounderful theres plenty to do. If like me you love the computer theres the internet which is reasonably priced. Also a few shops in the hotel which are cheap.
Entertainment- Fab amazing. Funniest thing ive ever seen. the animation team are the niceset funniest group of people you would ever meet.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- April 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Mark Lisa Marco and Archie (40,37,12,7 )
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
April 2007 for 2 weeks. We enjoyed our holiday at first we were disappointed that the slides would not be open until the second week of our holiday as the brouchure did not say but they were worth the wait to our children.
The rooms are basic although quite spacious as always I would suggest taking hangers with you as there is never enough for a family. I had read on the website that the hotel provides towels for beach and pool this is not CORRECT so please do not get caught out as we did not take any and 4 towels in the shop amount to about £25.00, and as this hotel is remote there is nowhere to buy this sort of thing other than the shop. The shop is expensive and if you want sweets, crisps etc there is a supermarket outside the hotel to the left next to the Safari pub. The Safari pub is good and safe to go to we went twice to see the live football on their big screen.
The food is good and I am very fussy but as a veggie I had plenty of choice although foods are mnot labelled well and roast veg often contain meat as does the stuffed veg peppers. We have a child who has a nut allergy and as always abroad the problem is magnified as the desserts are not labelled and they do love to sprinkle and add nuts to food- in fact on arriving at the hotel we were given a welcome non alcholic cocktail which contained almonds as it happens our sons life is threatened by walnuts but he must avoid all nuts just beware as it seems us Brits are more cautious in our eateries. Our son had what he thougt was mint ice cream turned out to be pistacio so again beware. Our waiter Abdul was excellent he always bought us more drinks even if we had not asked and lots of flowers on the table however the second week switched to having to get your own drinks at meal times and this was not as good but was done due to the increase in hotel guests.
The beach was a little disappointing not very long or wide and full of men trying to sell you bits and pieces. The pools were good but cold in the first week.
Many people were ill whilst away with poorly tummies I have to say in most cases we saw it was too much sun or booze, everywhere was clean and there were no flies like other reports suggest. I would advise as always you take on plenty of bottled water which is free and perhaps some bleach if like us someone has a ticky tum it is best to sort the loo out yourself. As for mossies yes a big problem for some- it really depends on the sweetness of your blood- hubby got eaten alive especially on the golf course but if you take just a spoonfull of marmite per day they will not come anywhere near you as they cannot stand it- take a jar with you it will be the best £1.20 you have spent- even if you do not like the taste.
The Al La Carte resturants are a nice change from the norm we love Italian but found the Tunisian better although the service and setting are both lovely as is the service, the menu is limited to a few dishes but the wine is nicer. The entertainment team are good- they work very hard- Alex is great as is Ronadinio the dancing is really good and we loved the club dances- Barcha BARCHA. These people are very poor and any tips are gratefully received- they especially love England footie shirts even if they are old so if you want to take any old ones out please do.The gym is excellent the man there is like a personal trainer he works you really hard but is very professional- the gym is not air conditioned which is hard work but he had me doing weights as I could not do much on the treadmills as it was too hot but I had to train as I was due to do The London Marathon 2 weeks after arriving home which I succesfully completed 2 days ago. If you want a treat for approx £24.00 per person you can have a Turkish bath- peel- massage and seaweed wrap this is lovely and will make your tan last if you have it done in the first days of your holiday- this is done at the hotel-very nice.
Trips would recommend the market- zoo trip but beware you do get hassled at the market and always barter.
The only critism I really have as a non smoker with two kids is the lack of non smoking places - the only places that are no smoking are the restuarant and four tables in the lounge- the reception- games room and bar areas are all smokey and I think more tables and areas should be designated for non smokers especially the arcade which is full of kids most of the time
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - March 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Paula 25 , Craig 22
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This is my second time at this hotel and I cant fault a thing about it!! Everything you want from a hotel is there!
The entertainment team work so hard for such long hours and for very little money but they always have a smile on there faces!!
I would like to say a special hello to Alex (both of them!), Ahmed, Adeal, Dido and Ronaldinio!! They are all fantastic!!
Im going back for a third time as it is such a good place so give it a go!!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Aspro Direct) Aspro - Mar 2007
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : Williams - Shrewsbury 35,18,17,10 , 4
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
On arrival passport control was extremely slow and over crowded. Transfer by bus was only about 15 minutes and extremely well informed.
On arrival you fill in a form and get a wrist band. Porter takes your cases and you are free to get on and enjoy the holiday. Complex is VERY clean, rooms basic, reception and dinning room excellent. Clean towels and rooms cleaned daily.
Out door pool is freezing which is shame since very clean. But couple in party had free go at Scuba diving with no obligation!
Indoor pool / sauna very clean.
Suggest you tip your waiter , we did each meal and was extremely well looked after! Cheers Abdul great bloke. Loads of flowers on table, constant drinks, and great laugh. Also you get a free birthday cake!
Some of food is a little bland but decent choice. Allocated table for stay which is excellent trouble free way.
Entertainment team are very good, make a big fuss of the kids, try and get peope to join in .Shows at night were very good.
DRINKS - never got an hangover with about 20 vodka oranges so not the best, but lager ok and since it was a relaxing holiday wasn't the end of the world. Must admit was the most relaxing holiday I have had, out of 7 days we had 3 days of terrible weather but they did their best to entertain everyone.
Took kids to Scousse market, yes you are pestered but it was quite funny and although I only saw 1 other non local we didn't feel threatened in fact they love to talk! ( And of course try and sell to you!)
Be aware mind that they will try and make out they are the bus driver, the porter etc and then try and take you to their friends shops! Be polite but don't be easily led.
And barter, you can get loads of bargains!
Tax is best to Scousse ( 5 dinar each way)
Beach ok but you do get pestered a bit. Had offer of 5 camels for the youngest daughter, but her mother would of killed me!
Not pestered with mosquitos or flies which is excellent, but may be worse in summer. Gardens pretty.
All in all very nice holiday, miss it to be honest but criticism's are:-
1) Aspro or Going places did not advise that the free water park was not open until 1st April! Since we had kids in the party they should of know that is why we booked this hotel. If they had told us would of booked it for April . Shame since it looked good and would of been an excellent holiday. ( Alot of other families said the same)
2) Like wise the Para gliding and Archery again were not open until April which is something we wanted to have a go at.
3) The snack bar by the pool was not open( again until April ) which is fine as long as you know prior to booking!!!!!!
4) Alot of painting is being done this time of year ready for the peak times so be aware. Not a complaint but be aware
5) Never saw rep, which is just as well since i would of told him how disappointed the kids were of the slides.
Would go again but not impressed with Aspro, and go a bit later in the year.
Ideal for families and couples but not groups of lads and lasses nothing near by outside of complex.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: first choice febuary 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : bernadette eccles blackburn
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
arrived at our accomodation about 15 mins from the airport, took ages to get through passport control. the accomodation was very basic. not much to say about the room it was what we expected it was very clean the maid was very thorough. the food was okay but a bit repetative ok if you like chicken pie, i didn't like the fact that we couldnt just sit anywhere for our meals but where the waiter put us on the first day. watch out for the people on the beach trying to sell you anything that they had at the time from silly cloths to put on your head ciggies and watches they will not take no for a answer, also for the people that walk around the markets in sousse and monastir saying that they work in your hotel they dont they just want your money.Also the sellers on the sousse beach we was conned by one of them they stole money out of my partners wallet before he knew it he had been conned out of 40 dinars.
If you go on holiday in febuary make sure to take a coat with you it was absolutely freezing when we were there, even in the hotel in the lobby i wore my jumper and my cardi nearly all week. when we went out i made sure that i wore my coat. i wouldnt go to tunisia again we didnt like the fact that we couldnt go anywhere without being hassalled by the local people if maybe their government did something well i might go back but during the summer.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Feb 2007
Opinion submitted in February 2007 by : Hughes--- West MIdlands----(46 & 56)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Arrived at Monastair airport took over 2hours to get through passport control.
Arriving at the Houda the reception area looked very nice it was clean. The porter took us to our room.Which was very basic some of the lights wasnt working all they needed was a new bulb in for them to work. The bed well what can i say it was like sleeping on a piece of wood each night. All that week we woke up with back ache. So if you want a good nights sleep hope you get it.........The room was cleaned each day.....Sometimes the water didnt work in the toilet and shower we left it for some hours and then it was working again..............
The food was very bland most of the food was the same each day. Some days some of the food which was out we didnt like it so had salad instead...But i do think the cakes are to die for. They are really nice...If you have a sweet tooth...
The waiters are very helpful and the table you have is where you sit for all your meals. Which we liked as you dont after to keep looking for a table to eat your meals....
The pool was nice put very cold so we went to the indoor pool which was warm.Go early of a moring if you want a swim as there are loads of kids in there and you dont have a chance to swim......
The Amination Team was good the had a Mini Club for the young children which they enjoyed by the look of there faces..There was volleyball,tennis,tabletennis,morning exercise and water aerboics,football and darts going on of a daytime.They dont pester you to do any of these things. Of a night the team put shows on they was ok...
There isnt a lot to do of a night time in Skanes (nowhere to go)so it was the hotel for stopping in.
Went to Sousse for the day we didnt like it.We was told by the waiter to watch our pockets as there are few pickpocketers out there(which you can get anywhere in the world)There are some people begging and will ask you for money.
You will get people coming up to you saying they work at the hotel they dont they try to get you to go to there shops to buy items from or its there freinds shops and the get a percentage of what you buy...
Theres a man outside the hotel with a horse and cart he is one them who will get you to go to one of these shops. And will say he works at hotel,he doesnt work there......
Went on the beach we walked the one way and it was like a building site with all broken walls which was in the sea, broken glass in the sand and in the water and rubbish everywhere. But if you went to the left side of the beach(when coming out of the hotel) it was a bit cleaner.Look out the man selling is wears to you they dont take no for a answer. Plus the horses on there for you to ride on.
Our holiday ok but wont be going back to Tunisia again........
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cooke - Jan 2007
Opinion submitted in January 2007 by : Marie Brown-Greater Manchester (20, 22, 45, 48, 47, 51
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from the Houda Beach Hotel, I was surprised to be honest. There was a party of six Adults ages from 21 to 51 and we all enjoyed it very much. All though the rooms are basic, they were very clean, towels and bed linen changed daily. The food was really good especially the lunch and evening meal, breakfast was what you would expect for a foreign country but having said that you were spoilt for choice and the food was tasty at all meals. The staffs were excellent at reception, the cleaners, the waiters, and the kid's entertainers worked extremely hard non-stop to please the kids and adults, always courteous.
New Years Eve they put on a spectacular Gala Meal, everybody worked extremely hard to make the event a wonderful experience for the guests. In addition, the food was wonderful all seven courses, each lady received a red Rose and everyone was made to feel special. It was a night to remember for all the right reasons.
The only thing that bothered me was the lack of non-smoking space, as an X Smoker I do go on a bit about the subject, but the reception were everyone meets can get very smoky and is not very pleasant. However, to be fair the dinning room is strictly non smoking which is nice and there is a small area for non-smokers, but is not large enough.
Tunisia was different to what I had experienced in the past, and whilst I felt intimidated by my shopping experience I would still recommend it as a warm friendly Country were you are made to feel welcome by hard working, caring people.
My final note on the Houda Beach I would definitely return, it as great facilities and all the staff work extremely hard to please everybody and make your stay in Tunisia memorable what more could you ask for. Thank you to everybody from Thomas Cooke whom we booked with, their Airline who we flew with, their Reps who did a marvellous job during our stay, and lastly all the members of staff at the Houda, Jan who was so helpful, Abdul our waiter, our cleaners and all others who worked tirelessly to keep the Houda working for all.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: FIRST CHOICE - 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : ALLAN BONINI ( 48,46,15 )
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
My only serious warning is stay away from the hotel security staff and although the next comment is third hand have spoken to a number of young British holiday makers who were there with parents it was commented on the number of times hotel staff attempted and suceeded in taking money from them.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - Dec 2006
Opinion submitted in December 2006 by : birmingham
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
After just returning form the Houda i've never been as happy to get back home. I would never return to that hotel again!
Although the hotel looked spotless there was(bugs,flys,ripping off staff, if you could eat after there "lets put you off your food" so you eat little, and it lacked in other parts. Going on an all inclusive holiday I would of expected to gain weight, instead we all lost weight, not only was the food disgusting with flys all over it, we all got tummy bugs as well.
The food was very bland and didn't taste of much. The queues where mental, the foreign people pushing to the front."if you go forget your english kindness and push you way round if they touch push them out the way" We gave up eating in the end and just lived of bread and butter. I had to buy them from the shop everyday.
The shop in the hotel is an absoulte rip off,after over charging they would still give wrong chance and ask for a tip, as you go for dinner they stand around the door way so you feel you have to buy before you eat have to be holding back on words or would let it all out..
If you are going then just pray you don't need to see the doctor, it will cost you...
rip-off....rip-off......rip-off....rip-off
rip-off....rip-off......rip-off....rip-off
rip-off....rip-off......rip-off....rip-off
The pools where great,after they where cleaned, looked great take a load of fly spray you will need it just to lie in sun so many flys ..i know why so much sickness waiter i can't count how many flys have been over my food...
If you are thinking of going to the Houda then please think again, you can get a much better holiday for your money what you pay to go is cheap don't forget when you get there it will cost you twice as much, we definatly won't be returning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rip-off....rip-off......rip-off....rip-off
rip-off....rip-off......rip-off....rip-off
rip-off....rip-off......rip-off....rip-off
over all if you want a illness, no money and have all your items robbed go have fun..if you can find any where
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Gabbie Stephens - Reading (43, 39, 12, 3)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Like many others I read the reviews on this hotel before we went, so did go with an open mind.
Upon arrival at Monistair airport our transfer coach was nowhere to be seen, however the reps in the airport didn't seem to know this or did but just decided to get us out of the airport, we had to wait in the heat for approx 20 minutes. Once the coach turned up the transfer was quick. We got to reception and were ushered into a small area to the side of the bar where the air conditioning didn't seem to work, no-one explained what was going on! One guy then came round and gave us forms to fill in for every member of your party, again then left just sitting there wondering what was going on then another guy appears and puts a wristband on you, then yet another guy comes round with your restaurant card and explains that you need to see the restaurant manager to confirm your sittings etc!!!
Eventually after about 40 minutes we were given our room keys and shown to our room by one of the porters, the room was very small and forget about storage space it is practically non-existent(expect to live out of suitcases!), the plus point is the room was very clean and the maid had left flowers on the beds and in the bathroom. We had a double bed and bunk beds in our room, however if you are travelling with a little one then I would suggest you ask for something more suitable, the bottom bunk is actually higher than the double bed, we had to put our suitcases between the beds and cover with the blankets from the cupboard, he did fall out several times.
On our first evening we checked in with the restaurant manager who then allocated a table and time for lunch and dinner for the whole of the duration, never have we experienced anything like this before. Our first visit to the restaurant wasn't really a good one, far too many flies everywhere including on the food which on first impressions looked like slop. I can honestly say that if you have kids that don't eat particularly well this place is definately not suitable for them.
Within 24 hours of arriving our 2 year old was violently sick for 3 hours (not suire if it was the food or ice cream that he had that day), we had to call the Dr. He ended up having anti-sick injections and antibiotics - not what you expect to happen on holiday! Because of this our son wouldn't eat or drink which was very worrying. To cut a very long story short after being there 5 days we spoke to Issam the rep (he was just excellent) regarding the food and that our children hadn't really eaten anything since arriving (we did also consider going home at this stage), we were then introduced to Mr Ali the overall Restaurant/Kitchen Manager, he asked us to put a menu together for the children and they would do their best to follow it, which they did, but our 2 year old still didn't really eat.
I then caught the bug that seemed to be doing the rounds in the hotel and had to stay in for a day or so. When speaking to other holiday makers it seemed that either themselves or someone they knew had been sick at some point in their holiday !!! If you do decided to stay at this hotel I would strongly recommend that you take plenty of Imodium with you, you'll need it !!
I must also mention that Jan (Public Relations Manager) and James (the 2nd First Choice rep) were fantastic, they were always around to help.
2nd weeks things seemed to settle down or so we thought/hoped. Our daughter then started to feel unwell and had to spend a couple of days in, she was then violently sick on the way home.
There are some good points. The Logoon Pool is lovely and this is where we spent most of our time, but beware, if you want a bed in the sun then you will need to get your towels out very early in the morning otherwise you won't get anything! The pool area is kept really clean.
The Animation Team are fantastic, a big hello to Hamdi (you shut up !!!!), slim who our son just loved and Daly the light man. They work so hard and I imagine for not much money. In fact all the hotel staff are lovely and friendly - such nice people.
Another to be aware of, this is an all inclusive hotel but please note that the popcorn with lollies/ice creams/doughnuts are not included! Also the drinks and snacks at the Waterpark aren't part of the package so you have to pay for these.
Overall I wouldn't recomment this hotel to anyone unless the food improves and they do something about the flies. If you go to this hotel then I hope you have a better time than we did.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: first choice. August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : the Wittys-Telford(39,34,10,4)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our second time to the Houda. The first being out of season in May 2003.
This time we went in season. It was packed. We had to get up at 6am to get sunbeds by the pool and the beach. The restaurant was packed. It was worse than a school dinner hall. People were so rude. Pushing in and even pushing the children around. Every english family that we met had bad stomachs to the point where they had to have injections. We were so disapointed as we had recommended this hotel toour friends that came with us and they too were ill!. The drinks are watered downand alot of the lunchtime food was re-heated for the evening. The Hotel itself was lovely. Big spacious pools.
The beach was lovely too. The animation staff were fantastic. The entertainment was really good. They work so hard at what they do. I would go back to the Houda but only out of season. The staff told us that before july there are around 500 guests maximum. July and August there are 1500 guests trying to use the same facilities. Avoid in high season.
Lots of families complained about thefts from the rooms. Lock EVERTHING up. We had our camera stolen 3 years ago so we learnt our lesson.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - August 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Gordon, Hayley and Katrina (45,42,16)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our first visit to Tunisia and I am already planning to go again next year.We arrived at midday and were met at reception where we were checked in with the minimum of fuss. The rooms were spotless and the maids had arranged the towels into swan shapes and had scattered flowers everywhere, the air con was great but the maids do tend to leave the balcony doors open when they clean the rooms so it kind of defeats the object! The beds were a bit hard and the pillows were full of lumps but after a good night out and a few drinks who cares? We had clean towels every day so you will not need to pack any, the room was cleaned daily and we often had vases of flowers left for us.
The dining room is lovely and clean, you get allocated a table and choose first or second sitting for lunch and dinner, second sitting is 7:45pm - 9:00pm, ideal if you do not have young children. The food is ok, plenty of salads and fresh fruit, breakfast is the best meal of the day, omlettes, croissants, sausages, fresh fruit, cake, salads. Remember that Tunisia is not allowed to import so they use all local, seasonal produce, it can be repetative but you will not go hungry.
The pools are fantastic, they have varying depths so you can paddle or dive. Take a trip out the back gate to the beach and try the jet skis and the paragliding, only 10 dinars a person (about £8)
you will need to get up early to put your towels on a sunbed but it is well worth it.Try not to get a bed under a palm tree or you will spend half the day in the shade.
The animation team keeps you entertained all day with games and dances around the pools, if you have teenage daughters they will love them as they are all young and fit!
There is a guy who comes round with roasted nuts to sell, try some, they are delicious.
Evening entertainment could be better, there is a kids disco from 8:30-9:30 then the animation teams do dance shows, quizzes and variety shows, do not miss these as they are FANTASTIC, some of the dancers are amazing, they should be on tour with Madonna. After these shows(around 10:30) unless you want to go to this disco there is not much else to do. The bar shuts at midnight which I found strange as the snack bar is open till about 1am.All the staff are very friendly and can't do enough for you, remember to tip them as they work very hard for low pay.
I would recommend the camel ride and visit to a Tunisian village, it was only about £10 per person and a great experience but you will be sore the next day! If you go to Sousse for a shopping trip you need to be firm and say no if you don't want to buy, avoid eye contact or they will charm the pants off you. Keep away from the carpet shops, they are a big con.
I will definately go back to this hotel, all inclusive is great and works out far cheaper in the long run.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: FIRST CHOICE -AUGUST 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : SHELLEY CAPSTICK - DUMFRIES (26,27,25,21,25)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel was well kept, food was ok lacking in vegetarian choices and pool and grounds were lovely.The staff at the houda were very friendly and were all a good laugh. The bar staff are very efficiant and the entertainment staff were a great laugh even though they worked long hours and were under paid.They had lots for all age groups to do and even liked to chat to you and entertain you even if they were off duty. We have been 3 times to the houda but never before in the hight of season we found that the staff were streched beyond their means they were understaffed in the restaraunt and it was over crouded.
The hotel its self is super and we love going their the beach is also good were you get lots of water activities to keep you amused. The music in the disco was much to be desired bring back Imed . Their was too many kids in late at night. We were just glad of the Safari where you got some good music and mixed with the staff of the hotel and the local people. Hello to bar man at Safari.
Over all was a great holiday thanks to Momo Rico TuTu for making our holiday memorable! we hope to be back and Momo we will have to get you wearing a scotland shirt Haha see you all soon Love Corinna & Shelley x
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: August 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Paul Mayhew-Yorkshire 34,28,8,2yrs
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from the Houda Beach club and paid £1900 for 1 weeks all inclusive accomodation for 2 adults 1 child and 1 toddler. The most expensive diet we could ever go on!
The food was very poor, covered in flies, uncooked, not kept at correct temperature and the dining hall resemebled a cattle maket-there were 2 sittings of around 75 minutes each when half the hotel had to get food. (There are approx 516 rooms acording to the brochure and the hotel was full) We were unable to get food at any time as snack bar was only open at certain times and the food is not great when it does open.(We had to travel out to Sousse on 2 occasions just to get a decent meal) There are tunisian men all around the hotel selling camel rides, boat trips, doughnuts, pop corn, waffles and ice cream. (Ice cream was ONLY available in the restaurant at lunchtimes we found and was a in tiny paper tub. We got some doughnuts as we were so hungry but didnt realise that we had to pay extra. The bar by the 'entertainment' area ran out of beer a few nights and the drains (right in front of the bar hatch)absolutely stink!. The hotel toilets are dirty, lack toilet paper constantly and dont have dryers, soap etc. Our room was dirty from when we arrived-hairs in the bath, plug missing etc. We were only left with 2 towels for 4 people despite constantly asking the maid for more who entered our room whilst we were still in bed at around 8.30am each morning!
We strongly advise using your safe although they are very small and in units in the lobby area!
The pools were nice although by the fourth day looked quite dirty and we had to get up at 6.30am to get a sunbed around the pool area!. We went onto the beach although this was nice and quiet the sea was dirty and you had to go back to the hotel to get a drink.
We paid for a sea view and requested a low floor as we have a buggy-we got there at 2am to be shown to a 4th floor duplex style room overlooking a building site! we complained and were moved to a ground floor room which looked onto a wall at the side of the hotel.
The entertainment was not very good in our opinion although the team do work very hard. One show where lots of children were watching at around 9.30pm involved a man lifting a guest on his shoulders and walking on broken glass, after laying on nails and leaning on swords.
However there are four water slides around a pool which kept kids entertained and the weather was very good!
Although this would not be enough to entice us back to Tunisia!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Eric Scott - Aberdeenshire (48, 36, 17, 14, & 8)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Stayed at the Houda for 14 nights A.I.
Hotel reception area very nice & rooms clean. Towels changed every day (if you tip the maid)Bedding changed weekly.
Pool area & beach very good, but you have to get up very early to reserve a sunbed.
A lot of French & German people staying, which I found to be very arrogant. They had no manners at all & would always jump the queue at meal times.
Meals were OK, but watch out for the salads, which were very well presented, but were obviously washed in tap water, which gave two of our party an upset stomach.
Bars are ok, but you are only allowed two drinks at a time in plastic half pint tumblers. Celtia lager is the only lager available, but it is drinkable.
There is entertainment for younger children at nights, down by the water slides, but there is no bar there, so if you want a drink you have to carry it from the main building. There is one local bar called the Safari just along the road which has very friendly staff & a nice atmosphere. It also has Sky T.V. which was very handy for watching the world cup, which was on at the time of our stay (shame about England getting gubbed - Not!)
Went on several excursions:
Camel Ride with Fritz - Good - (arse was dottled for days)
Quad Biking - Excellent - Went twice, great value for money, but wear your old clothes & take sunglasses to "Shield your Eyes"
El Jem & Pirate Boat - Very Good
Zoo & Zulu Night - crp - Say no more
Bedhouin Feast - Very Good - Plenty of free drink flowing & food was good.
Bartering in the Medinas in Monastair & Sousse is quite enjoyable the first couple of days, but after that you get fed up of being hauled into every shop, & some of them can be quite aggressive.
Word of Warning - Dont go on the Horse & Cart which is usually sitting at the entrance to the hotel - we got taken away to a shop in Skanes & only were "released" once we had all purchased something.
All in All, we had a great holiday, & I would definately go back to Tunisia, but not to the Houda due to its location, as there is nothing to do at nights
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Sunstart - July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Carolyn - Newcastle/Tyne (44,46,18,8)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
July 23.07.06 - 06.08.06
I always read Holiday Reviews, so on booking the Houda looked at some of the reviews. Most of them were salting for some reason or not, but always go with open mind and make the most of it.
Arriving in Tunisia 06.45pm we did'nt get out Airport until 8.15 as we had to fill in Visa for all party. Thomas Cook staff said they had no visas on plane, and as few planes arrived together it was hectic and air condition not very good.
Hotel only 15 mins away from Airport. On initial arrival noticed that we seemed to be a bit out of it, only 1 supermarket and inbetween the town;s of Monistair/Sousse, so would of liked at least some activity right outside hotel.
We arrived in Hotel at 9pm and they tried to usher us into restaurant for something to eat, but my 8 yr old decided to check out pools (water mad)but accidently fell in (some story) wanted to get in so we fell about laughing!.
Some mad blokes around us!!
Room 139-2 nd floor on side Hotel. On initial view was'nt too sure cos did'nt have balcony, sea view etc-but the room was huge!. Our window was half way up wall so not much drying room but the space made up for it cos not cramped and getting into everyone space - after seeing other rooms no way changing - they are all air condition.
Immaculate rooms! maid's lovely they get a real kick out of saying Asslema to you (hello) and listening to your accent when yu try to say it back to them.
Restaurant: busy but you can sit back and tell times crowd trails off, if you are wanting British meals etc then don;t go here go to Benidorm where it is shoved in your face. This is a International Hotel so expect different meals and be willing to try. You also get to go to the Tunisan night and Italian night.
The Tunisian night was excellent instead of a 3 course meal we ended up with 6 course cos the waiter looked after us (invitd us every night from there on if we wanted) - we were willing to try!!.
You are allocated your table in the main restaurant for the rest of your stay so no arguments about tables, but remember breakfast you can sit anywhere.
Pools lovely - cleaned.
Pool staff immaculate in cleaning glasses etc away.
If you don't want to go in main restaurant lunch time, the snack bar opens 12-2/3/4/pm depending i.e. chips/pizza/salads,bolognese etc.Also opens 11pm - brilliant.
All inclusive except for Bannana boat/jet ski/paragliding/scuba diving.
Mine went Paragliding with 8 year old/banana boat,sofa riding and little un loved the scuba diving with instructor beside him in sea feeding the fish.
Waterpark - 4 fast rides open daily.
What can I say about the Amination Staff!!! they deserve a medal!! what a fantastic bunch lads! you dar'nt turn yr back or they were playing a prank on you from 09.00 - 12 noon - then 3pm until 10.30
they go around getting everyone involved in water pole/areobics/belly dancing/salsa,bowls,archery,water polo and if yu refuse the banter back you get is brilliant-They make the holiday!!!.
Also fantastic the Donghnut Man 1 Dinar (£1.00 for 2 dinas)my bubby exchanged shirts cos they were brillant. If you go say hello to Ishamal on the Ice Creams every flavour yu can imagine (say the mad American with serious English accent says hello-Mike).
Issam our rep was Tunisian and the meeting was brillant cos he told us everything, from getting ripped off ect, he wants to promote a good example for other holiday makers, so told us the truth.
We never got to any of the trips cos my 8 year old had too much to do.
Disco also open until 2pm.
Only rain we had was on the Friday 5.30pm for half hour (34d plus every day) and considering last rain was 4 months ago, brilliant.
Dont; forget Monistair/Sousse its haggling and they love it when you start bantering - we were told to divide everything by 4 to get right price-so laughs all around-but we got them down.
(We did hear moaners, but get on with it-make the most)
Never known such dedicated staff-again cannot emphazise the Animation Team BRILLIANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Once again if you want British then go to Spain but if you want to try different then this is it.
If you want a lively night time then it's not for you, it's relaxing and when you work Full Time its a lovely break!!!!!
First time Tunisia - will not the the last!!!!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Hemmens Party - Bristol (33,31,7,4)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
We departed for our holiday on 16th July 2006 for a 2 week holiday. The arrival to Tunisia was very good no delays on departure and went straight through to find our coach, make sure you have plently of English money on arrival as you have help with your cases and belive you me they want your money!!.
Arrived at the Houda only just over 10mins coach journey and arrived at the hotel about 12.30pm and was told that the room wasn't ready till about 2.00pm, but was told we could eat and help ourselves to drinks. We'd booked a twin room for the four of us and was told as we had children we would be put on the ground floor (room 90) right outside the pool, we entered the room only to find a shabby built platform in which they had placed two single beds onto to make a double and bunk beds that stood just over 6ft tall with a verticle ladder down to a tiled floor, we complained and was told there were no other rooms, hence we had to take the matress off and my son had to sleep on the floor for two weeks.
Day one of the holiday and my son was stung by a jelly-fish in the sea and i rushed him straight to the doctors costing £20.00 in english and 40,000 dinar and needed an injection and some cream, i was informed later on in the holiday that all you need to do is treat the sting with a tomato (FOC), make sure you take plently of diarrheoa tablets and get some IBS tablets, my husband suffered food poisioning on the first friday of our holiday and was laid up for 3 days, costing us another £20.00 for doctors fees and another 3 injections plus medication for stomach cramps.
Watch the air conditioning it leaks and my children are still suffering chest infections now, we had to pay for antibitiocs over there costing us another £25.00. Make sure if you have young children when you take them to the toilet if they go in alone make sure they don't lock the doors, because they lock from the inside leaving you unable to get in. Be prepared to wait for drinks and when you do eventually get one be prepared for it to be warm, and when eating please make sure you cut the meat, on one occasion the family sat behind us had a burger and bit into it only to reveal a scene from JAWS.
Always wear shoes on the beach as the sand is soooooooo hot enough to burn them, and watch whilst walking round the pool area it does get very slippery around the edges. And one last point when leaving the hotel for your journey home take a leaf out of our book and book yourself a taxi half an hour before the coach arrives inform the reception that you are leaving early, it costs 10 dinar (5.00) but it is well worth doing.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Angie Roddy & 2 Kids (41,37,8,3)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Our third time to Tunisia, first time Skanes and first time all inclusive. Chose this as it's only 15 mins from airport. In all, took about an hour from landing to the hotel. Pretty painless.
Shown to our room which was on the second floor, along several corridors, but the porters are eager to help (and get a tip!)
Room - clean and spacious, could have easily slept more than us four. No view. Absolutely no complaints about the room or the maid service.
Meal times - absolute chaos. You share a table with others, usually one of you is on first sitting the other on second. Breakfast is a free for all. Get down to breakfast before 8am. it's the same every day, but they do make fresh omelettes, and there's plenty of bread etc. Our kids usually had toast and often boiled scrambled eggs, sausages, pancakes.
Lunch can be taken either at the poolside snack bar or in the restaurant. Long queues at the pool, but if you leave it til about half one, it's quiet. The pizza is ok, and there's chips with everything. Lots of choice of salads (some unusual) and we found the spaghetti bolognese wonderful. The seafood pasta was a bit of surprise when our daughter found an octopus in it! Please try the dishes, they are delicious, though some of the meat is a bit chewy. Any amount of fresh bread you want. Same goes for the meals at night, plenty of choice and as much to eat as you want. Just remember your on a sitting so you need to be off your table before the next lot arrive.
No complaints about the bar service, though there are sometimes long queues at night. The drink is good, local beers and spirits, and try the muscat, it's a bit like thick sherry!
Pool - Fantastic pools. We realised that if you didn't get up at 6am to get a sunbed, you didn't get one. Set your alarm, it's worth the hassle and the restaurant is empty at that time. People were putting their towels out the night before, but not many did. The sprinklers are on early doors so the towels get soaked. The animation team are brilliant. They start at 10am when everyone has to get up round the pool for the gloop dance (i think that's what they called it). By the end of your holiday you will be up there dancing - I guarantee it!! We all were. Each song has moves to it and the animation team are all there teaching it. Join in - what else is there to do? They also organised water polo, archery, mini golf, table tennis, beach volleyball, salsa lessons, etc etc loads of stuff if you want to try it, and the aperitif games at midday are funny to watch. A bit crowded round the pool, but spread your sunbeds out if you can. The french are particularly unfriendly if you encroach on their space as we found out. Not enough sunbeds for everyone.
Beach - didn't really venture there but when we did a few vendors arrived putting headscarfs on the kids and tried to sell us cheap ciggies. They have great baskets of fruit for sale on the beach - good quality. A polite but FIRM no thanks usually does the trick if you're not interested or just walk away. I did the parasailing with my daughter and it was great - highly recommended and only 20 dinars (about 8 quid), and they have banana boats, tubes, jet ski's.... The guy comes round the pool to sell the tickets for the sports on the beach and doesn't give up til you buy one! It was good fun.
Night - mini disco at half 8 is recommended for the little ones. It lasts an hour and is probably suitable for those 8 years and under. About 10 songs that all have routines to learn so the kids get to know the same ones every night. We bought the CD before we left and our 3 yr old loves it in the car. The shows after the disco are good considering the staff are amateurs, and are often very funny. The Pavarotti one was side splitting. Stay and watch, the bar at the slide pool (where the shows are on) is never busy, though only serves beer and wine. I found the toilets here pretty disgusting - never stocked on loo roll and sometimes people missed the pan altogether! They are not cleaned at night, so take some kind of wet wipe with you - you'll need it.
Summary - if this is your first time in Tunisia and your all inclusive, you won't get the best out of it. The French and Dutch we found were particularly ruthless all the time and pushed in everywhere. Stand your ground. The Tunisians are very nice helpful people and work extremely hard for very little money. Tip them. A dinar is only about 40p but is a lot to them. We will never go all-incl again, either in Tunisia or elsewhere, but we highly recommend going half board. We hope you enjoy your stay and if this has helped keep the French in line it's been worth it!!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice- June 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Lynne , steve and kids (34,27,7,4)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at the Houda on 18th june, the airport was fairly painless as we were given forms on the plane to fill in.
We had a room for 4 consisting of a double and 2 single beds, it was quite spacey and kept clean and tidy with daily maid service.
The pool areas we also kept well clean although beds and spaces did become abit of a problemn on busier days. We too had to join the towel brigade.
Used the hamman and beauty areas, god value for money, staff speak very little english which can be confusing.
Went on the pirates and gladiators, bit of a long day especially for the kids may have been better separate. Also did the welcome tour which was quite good. The first choice rep was lovely and is usually in reception.
The main food hall was busy and not very well air conditioned, the main problem was the amount of foreigners who refuse to que, watch out for the chip stand. The tables are also quite close together and people tend to just push their way through instead of using the aisles for some reason. The a-lacarte restaurants on the other hand were fab, we loved the italian although its worth remembering that this is a-la-carte tunisian style so dont expect the ritz. however after 2 weeks of the bullbait that is the main hall we welcolmed the restaurants with open arms. They are cool an clean the service is great and the beer comes as stella in a pint bottle. Much better than the 2 plastic cups you are allowed elsewhere.
The best thing ever for us was the kids club, 10-12 then 3til 5 pm, the gang, eva hamida katie and ben work so hard taking the kids out on banana boats, to the slide pools, on to the beach. Ours loved it and it too was a much welcome break for us. All of the animation team were great, and seem to work none stop. Watch out for the pool side pranks though, they got us a few times.
Also if your looking to buy jewellery use the sahara beach hotel and speak to khalib. We were told 260 dinars was cheap for 2 spin rings with one name on each by the guy in the houda shop. we got 2 with 2 names from khalib for 195. and he came very highly rated as opposed to the fella in the houda who recieved many complaints and the reps warned against.
Overall we loved Tunisia and enjoyed the Houda very much, there are ways around the things you dont like, tips go very longs ways...... by the middle of our second week we had worked this out to a T. We had temperatures of 45-47 degrees in the shade some days so take plenty of factor 50 for kids. The safari shop over the road is generally abit cheaper to than the indoor one, although the till is probably still confusing the fella in the souvenir shop..
It was a great family holiday, we had a smooth arrival into tunisia and transfer to the airport. Had an hour delay on the way home but the departue lounge is fine so was ok.
Very good holiday, would go back
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: first choice june 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : breeze-crewe (56, 46,43 ,4)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
just returned from a lovely relaxing holiday in tunisia. stayed at the houda golf and beach club. hotel basic but clean towels cleaned at least 3 times per week.
hotel staff were great and nothing to much trouble for them i have to take daily injections which must be stored in a fridge and some poor porter carried the fridge down 3 flights of stairs so it wad available for my use,have english lady named Jan who is part of the hotel management team she is really helpful.
Entertainment team were brilliant and the most friendlist bunch ive ever met.
initially had resevations about going to tunisia but would defenitly go back. word warning...be prepared to barter when you go shopping cos if youve ever been to turkey the barter like pussy cats compared to the tunisians. camel ride is a must.
if your due to visit soon there is a guy there called Rio who will persuade you to go to sousse with him and you end up doing quick visit of the carpet shop,go with him cos its free and hes a really decent guy. do me a favour and tell him Bev says hi.
have a great holiday. im sure you will
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Soph, Chris, Trace, Neil, Jim, Matty, Chloe and Meg (31,35,29,37,12,5,7,7,)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Got back from the Houda on 19th June and my god do we need a rest!!!!
What a fantastic place.
The hotel:
Clean and very tidy. Maid service everyday with fresh towels. Staff are always cleaning and making the place look extremely tidy.
The Pools:
Cleaned every morning, spotless, always plenty of sunbeds and plenty of beds in the shade.
The Restaurants:
The main restaurant was lovely, the staff are there to make your meals pleasant and always have time to stop and talk too you.
Plenty of choice at each mealtime for adults and children alike. The snack bar is situated beside the main pool and serves pizza, salad, chips and hot dogs. It is a good idea to go there for a change of scenery sometimes. The a'la carte restaurants were also lovely. The Italian food was lovely and the drinks just keep flowing there!!!
The Staff:
Well what can i say about the staff, Danny what a lovely,lovely bloke. Always has time to sit and have a laugh with you and always has time for the kids. Mo Mo was also lovely always game for a laugh. Haimeda is a real hit with the kids (and also the men... Daddies club! private joke!) I also need to say hi to Camero (what a mover and a lovely bloke), Me too (cheeky chappy!) mad Ben, Rio and Anice. If i have forgotten anyone i am sorry.
These people really make your holiday... They work all the hours god sends for very little money, but are so nice you fall in love with them.
The only down side to Tunisia is the hassle you get from people trying to get you to buy things all the time. If you dont want to get the hassle dont go into Sousse or Skaines. And just ignore the blokes in the hotel trying to sell you trips.
This was def the best holiday i have ever been on and to have my best friend with me to share it, made it even better!
If you go here, go to have a laugh and mix with these people and you really wont regret it.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: first choice - june 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : shea - ,32,35,13,12,10
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked to go to this resort and hotel with our neigbours who had previously been 2years ago- so thought it must be ok!!
i then read the reviews and thought- o my god!! but was reassured by our friends that what the reviews were saying was'nt at all like that to their knowledge and that they had a great time when they first went - so i stopped looking at the reviews and thought the only way to know for myself is to go!! so off we went.
Arrival at airport is a bit of a pain having to fill out the entry forms but if the plane crew gave you them earlier in the flight you could fill them out while flying save hassle later but never mind eh!!
once through passport controll and out into the open it was fine - transfer time to hotel was all of 15mins- we pulled into the hotel grounds and my son of 10 (this been the childrens first time abroad started crying with sheer delight of what he saw ) all the slide pools are lit up lovely and the whole surroundings even at night looked great- we entered the lobby to be greeted by a very loud HELLLLLLLLLLLO!!(DANNY) we were very quickly shown to our rooms my two eldest daughters were sharing a room with their grandma and our son with us-all on the same corridor which was good- the rooms were very clean and yes as stated basic but what more do you want other than a bed!!.
We headed straight to the bar after dumping the cases and as a group of 10 including a baby were greeted by very friendly staff first impressions GREAT!!.
We all met for breakfast next day what a selection !!.
Lunchtime meals could be taken in the dining room ( which you are allocated a table for the duration of your stay) or you could get food from the buffet style bar at the pool side which consisted of cooked dishes salad's or pizza and of course chip's for those of you not wanting to try new thing's.
evening meals are too VERY GOOD there is just so much to choose from i don't see how anyone who gave negative report's on the food in this hotel can there is something for absolutely everybody -,.
Then at 11PM another pizza bar opens honestly you end up 2 stone heavier than when you arrived belive me.
The evening entertainment could do with a juggle round i think mini disco starts about 8-30 for the little ones or if like me and my mate the young at heart- which a giggle - then they do a bingo in the disco area which i found tiring as they do the numbers in i don't know how many nationalties - so by time they got back to next no: you could have fallen a sleep-.
then they do showtime which was different but well worth watching the animation team work so hard it makes you wonder how they keep going ( and of course i'm now married to one of many mr.houda's. )
Then the disco for the elder ones does'nt start till about 10-30/11ish.so i recommend taking it steady on the drink early on in the night cos they arn't early to bed nights!!.
I can recommend the camel trip it's great fun - we also went on the pirate ship but found that to be a money making racket once on board-.wish we'd done the quad biking instead now.
The pools are extremely clean and plenty of sun beds.
The beach is a stone throw away and also very clean there is one or two sellers but they don't bother you realy- try the water sports they are great fun!!
There is'nt anything to do outside the hotel grounds unless you want to take a trip into sousse or monastaire for a day of haggling -
.
I don't know what else to say apart from if like me you have read all the negatives about this hotel then PLEASE ignore them cos i can honestly say this hotel is FANTASTIC - and we had a fab holiday only down side was 2weeks just was'nt long enough- so go along and have a great holiday just like WE ALL DID!!!!!.
(give moo moo a nip on back of leg and tell him it's from the english lass that was here in june!!.and say hi to whisky from william!!)<he's on the jewellry stand in the hotel>
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Colin, Jackie and kids (41,36,6,4)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Like many others who read the poor reports about this hotel, I too was considering cancelling the holiday but I'm glad I didn't. We paid £1700 for two weeks for our family of four and considered this a fair price for an all inclusive holiday. With a flight time of 2 ½ hrs and a transfer time of just 20 minutes, I was pleased to be on the beach 4 hours after leaving the UK. With sunny weather, which was 30-35 degrees, it suited me. Skanes itself is a strip of about five large hotels only, nowhere to go for a walk or a stroll as I agree, there is NOTHING whatsoever to do in the immediate vicinity. Nearest towns of Monastir, Sousse or Port El Kantoui provide shopping and restaurants for a short inexpensive taxi ride (10 - 15 TDinar @ 2.4 TD = £1)
General hotel description: a large hotel built probably in the 1970's with three storeys, numerous corridors built around quadrangle gardens and no lifts.
Rooms: all very basic but clean, with small balconies, beds which were OK, dressing table, TV with only one English speaking channel which was Eurosport. Plastic furniture on balcony but no other seating. TV but. Air conditioning not switched on until mid June, rooms can get warm but balcony doors have insect screens built in so at least you can let breeze in. Clean towels everyday. We weren't happy with our first room so like others, asked for a change and were given the choice of three other rooms without any argument and we selected the best.
Pools: the best amenity with a huge free-form pool with kid's shallow sections, deeper adult sections and meticulously maintained and cleaned every morning. Plenty of sun beds although the towel brigade were in existence! Piped music is played but it is not as some have suggested as being loud and annoying plus there are beautiful garden areas containing sun beds out of the music. The indoor pool is small and closes in mid summer. There is a gym with out-dated equipment but is capable of providing a workout. The Hammam, sauna and massage centre is payable but very good value at 60 TD (£27) for six treatments including full body massage.
Waterpark: separate from the main pool with chutes & slides. Separate snack bar but chargeable for food and drink
Animation team - full entertainment is provided by the in-house animation team who are always cheery. Various daily activities from 10.30am including football, tennis, dance classes and aerobics, volleyball, archery, tennis, salsa, water polo and well as fun water games. Watch out for Danny, he's the lively character with the loud "Hel - lo" call. He is the joker who will be wearing your swim-suit top if you don't look after it ........ he's mad, has his own little red dress which he likes to parade around the pool side and reception in. All the young girls are swept off their feet by the 'Animation Guy's' , a bunch of handsome party animals... I'm so envious! The much documented animation guy Fou Fou has left but Hamida, a woman animation girl is superb with the kids.
Restaurants/bars: - Main restaurant can get busy with queues forming. All staff cheery and polite - food we found was fine. Breakfast consisted of toast, eggs, cereals, pancakes, croissants, Danish pastries, salads, meats and cheeses. Dinner was good selection of fish, meats, salad bar, chips (of course), Soup, pasta, Veg, soup Yorkshire pudding with Gravy, chicken pie, mash, couscous, rice, omelettes. The pastries and gateaux are excellent so you will put on weight! Some reviewers have described the food as 'repetitive', well yes, but this is Tunisia and it's all part of experiencing North African cuisine! Separate Tunisian and Italian 'A la Carte' restaurant is bookable but food very similar to buffet in hotel. Adel (nick-named Mee-Too) and Sammi (Cheekybugger) were brilliant we were well entertained by them. The beer (Celtia lager) is not bad and the local spirit is Boukha (a white rum made from figs).
Poolside snack bar: by main pool open 11am- 5pm serving pizza, salad, hotdogs etc. plus all drinks and bottled water. Didn't like the flies around the open salad bar so get salad from inside salad bar.
Disco / kids mini disco: family fun led by the Animation team who start it off with the kids disco at 8.30pm, followed by bingo/cabaret shows and finally adult disco. The hotel nightclub is a stone cavern-type theme. The bar service can be slow. Get a few drinks at a time. The Pizza snack bar opens again at 11pm at night.
Kids club: 10am - 12noon and 3pm - 5pm. They have various activities for the kids. There is a pitiful children's play which only consists of two old swings in the kid's club grounds.
Beach: directly off the main pool and gardens. Clean, safe and soft white sand. Various water sports including free pedalo and Kayak. Pay extra for the jet ski, banana boat & parasending. Plenty of sun beds and umbrellas - not crowded. Sea warm and calm, perhaps a little boring as no waves and not deep!
Medical: nurse on duty 24 hr. Doctor available. Charges apply.
Excursions: Nothing to see in immediate area. See Fitz in reception and take his camel tours where you ride camels and horses to mock village. Good value half-day excursion for £10 adult, £5 child which is cheaper than the reps charge and includes a snack. Port El Kantaoui is very pretty, posh town well worth the 15 dinar taxi ride. If you don't fancy a haggle at the Medina in Sousse, visit the fixed price Yasmine centre in Monastir for bargains without hassle.
Other matters of note: Landing cards have to fill in on arrival at Monastir Airport. Be prepared to stand in lengthy, slow immigration control queues in hot conditions. If you have kids, make sure they have water and something to keep them occupied otherwise it will be hell. Exchange rate is fixed wherever you change. Currently 2.4 TD = £1.
Mosquitoes: bad early evening if the weather is hot and still. Take plenty of insect repellent and long trousers/tops if you want to sit out in the terraces at night.
Weather: great in May but think would be scorching July and August .. this is North Africa! Take plenty of high factor sun cream. We did have one day of rain and some cloud but a pleasant breeze of the sea most of the day.
Overall: If you want a cheap holiday with lovely weather and you are content with staying in the hotel complex chillin' by the pool then this place is ideal. However, if you want luxury, fine dining and plenty of places to sight-see, then you will be disappointed. It's a very entertaining place with activities and lovely friendly staff, it's well worth the stay for 7 - 11 nights. Best for families with children under 16. Older ones will get bored. YOU DO HAVE TO WEAR THE WRISTBAND!
N-JOY
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: first choice May 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Sarah fox - Gravesend Kent
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hi, eight of us stayed at the Honda Beach and golf club and we enjoyed every minute of it.
It was my little sister 21st birthday and the staff did everything they could to help us, she ended up having two birthday cakes!! we were allocated the same table every meal time, which was cool as you didn't have to worry about finding a table. The table was always beautifuly decorated with flowers. Our waiter was fanastic and well desevered his tip at the end of the holiday, as he consitantly run around for us. Some of the food was a bit too spicy for me but my famliy seemed to enjoy it, there was always a variety of food on offer, salads, soup, pasta, meats etc... and wonderful desserts. You could get water by the bottle. Not a great variety of alcohalic drinks but they did a cool slush puppy style drink, have it with vodka it's really refreshing.
A couple of days into our holiday we were given a questionaire to fill out, my sis and brother n law commented that their matteress was hard and uncomfortable, the manager of the hotel rang their room the next day and the matteress was changed! Very impressive. The rooms were basic but the hotel itself was always clean. Great factilites, great pool,great indoor pool, great sauna, great hamman and game room. The hotel even had interent access, with plenty of computers.
The water park was fanastic just a shame there wasn't a bar there, as we had to keep walking back to the hotel to top up our drinks. The staff were all fanstastic, the maids were poliety and always put fresh flowers in our room. I disagree the hotel wasn't dirty, it was spotless when we were there. The maids were always busy cleaning! There was always plenty of sun beds and i never noticed any reserved. The other holdiay makers were pretty friendly too. There was a real mix of nationalities but this wasn't a problem.
Danny one of the amination team was super. Archery!!! (private joke) but you will get it once you have been! never once did he see us did he not say hello and give us a friendly hug. actually all of the amination team were great, always politly, always trying to please, they pulled my sis on the stage to sing happy birthday to her. All in all the staff went to a lot of effort for my sister's birthday. At the end of the hoilday we were known as the family in the tshirts. I made some embarrassing t shirts for us to wear on her birthday,of her when she was a baby!!
The excurions were pretty reasonable and i would def, recommened the camel ride, i was very very scared but the staff were great and made it a really fun day out.I got a donkey ride too. The lads enjoyed using the water sports on the beach. The first choice reps were new to the job and she didn't really give us great advice, when we told her that my husbands suitcase had been damaged on the way there. The hotel isn't that close to much there is a few shops up the road but this wasn't a really a problem for us as we made our own entertainment. It did rain whilst we were there but you can't blame the weather on anyone, when it was hot it was hot hot hot!
The shops in the hotel had pretty much the same as the shops in the local towns and they were a little dearer. We didn't find the shops that pushy, we simply said no had a joked with them and we were left alone. All of the workers spoken english, so we never had any language barriers. Coffee, teas, and hot choclaote always available, and even cake for afternoon tea. You could help yourself to soft drinks, which was good as you didn't have to queue up for them. We all enjoyed fresh pizza at one in the morning after the disco had finished. The floors in the main reception/lobby area is slippery, i did slip over but only when i worn my flip flops.
Over all we all really enjoyed our holiday and would definetly recommend it!!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: First Choice - May 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Keyworth Family - Nottinghamshire (40, 38, 4, 10months)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our first holiday abroad with two little ones, and what can we say we had an excellent time, even though the weather did reach 49.5 one day, but we didn't let that bother us, we just did the sensible thing and kept the children covered and in the shade. The hotel was fantastic and very clean, all the staff were so friendly and helpful and spoke very good english.
Our room was great, with clean sheets and towels every day, the cleaner arranged the childrens night clothes and toys in shapes on the bed/cot.
The pools were great with plenty of activity by the large pool for those who wanted it. Our daughter loved going to the slide pool. The beach was cleaned everyday and although there are beach sellers if you say no they don't hassle you anymore.
The food was plentiful and had a wide variety at breakfast, lunch and dinner and our daughters never went hungry. Both the Tunisian and Italian restaurants were great. They could do with more variety on the alcholic drinks with larger glasses too, the soft drinks were excellent and you could help yourself all day long and there was bottled still and sparkling water.
What can we say about the entertainment staff, well they work really hard and are on the go all day, they are an excellent bunch and really make your holiday. Our 4 year old loved going to the mini disco and also playing in the games arcade.
Our First Choice rep, Sandra was excellent. Jan, the hotels liaison manager was very helpful and we must mention Adele (Me 2) one of the waiters, he couldn't do enough for you and is so friendly.
Well we could go on forever with compliments
Would we go again, most definitely.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: firstchoice 2006 may
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : lorraine rossendale 36 40 11 10
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
we had a good holiday weather beautiful ,the complex has plenty of pool areas each are very clean and plenty of beds to chill out on , the slide pool is great fun and the beach is nice
all in all a lovely holiday just ignore the sellers
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook May2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : Vikki Wray 31, 28 ,9, 5.
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Before leaving I read the reviews on the hotel and was quite upset by what i read i thought we had made a huge mistake in booking this hotel and wanted to cancel the whole holiday. Thankfully we didn't.
It was my youngest childs 1st time abroad and what a fantastic choice we made. The hotel is spotlessly clean, all the staff speak very good English, everybody was helpful, brilliant service in the restaurants and bars. The food in the snack bar doesn't vary much but you can always go in the main restaurant if you don't want what is available there as there is a good range of food in there. The a'la carte restaurants are well worth going to as they are included in the price you pay. The rooms are basic but again spotlessly clean with clean towels and sheets everyday and the room cleaned to a high standard.
My husband celebrated his birthday while we was away and as i had informed the tour operator the hotel staff had made him a cake and our waiter Abdul had the whole restaurant singing happy birthday to him it was a really nice personal touch to the holiday. The animation team are fantastic they work really hard to keep people entertained.
The pools again really clean. The resort isn't great as it is just hotels but a two minute walk from the hotel there is a little shopping centre called El Safari which is all fixed prices and has got a decent range of gifts. Monistir is just a short taxi ride away and only cost us 7 dinar is well worth going to they have got the Yesmina centre which is fixed price shopping and very cheap also the shops if you want to haggle. If you do want to get a taxi you are best agreeing a price with the driver before getting in. The trips that we went on were really good and very cheap for what you do and very enjoyable.
It is a fantastic hotel and a beatiful country and we are looking forward to going again.
Well worth the money.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook -APRIL 2006
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : SARAH SHOKER-LEICESTER
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We went to the houda hotel at the end of april for 2 weeks-i had read many negative reviews of tunisia prior to going and was expecting the worse-but i have to say i was pleasantly surprised.
Firstly the weather-well 2 days rain followed by 3 days of intense 32-35c heat was generally the pattern! 2nd-the hotel,food was a bit repetetive but nice enough-the room we had was fairly basic-as a coffee addict i was dismayed to find no kettle in room(sad i know) but maid was great and tv was watchable with english film channel..Next the staff in the hotel-well a lovely friendly bunch of characters!-A special shout out goes to ahmed and hatem-our barmen! who remembers what you drink very quickly-i have never met a more genuine friendly guy as ahmed on holiday!-we are even keeping in touch with him. Danny is the character you know when hs around-ARCHERY IS HIS CALL.
Drinks- avoid the ice cubes-they upset the tummy- their isnt much alcohol in the alcohol we discovered but i soon figured out if i had the white wine with a bit of lemonade-i could quite quite well urrm merry!!
Outside of the hotel-you will be mobbed by taxis! and when you go shopping you will told everything is 5 dinars and sellers will be flocking you but-if you say no thank you and KEEP walking then its bearable-if your brave-as we were you can play the haggling-then you can be cheeky and get some REAL bargains-
all in all i would say-GO AND ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE! Its different but that can be good
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) JMC April 2006
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : Leanne - Lancashire 29, Laura 22
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have just returned from this hotel this morning. After reading alot of poor reviews i was a little worried as to what i might find, but being a person with an open mind i didnt dwell on them too much.
The hotel reception,grounds, pool and bars were spot on, no faults there. The rooms were fine, nothing fancy, but clean with fresh towels daily and nice and bright. Corridors were a little tired looking but spotlessly clean. The restaurant was ok, again nothing fancy but a good choice of food. You can also go to the other al a carte restaurants which were again fine, not first class but comfortable and tasty. That covers the hotel.
The staff are brilliant and work really hard to make your holiday enjoyable. The animation team work all hours and bring fun to the holiday. There are shows every night which were...i shall say different!!! Sometimes they were so bad they were funny. The animation team work really hard and dont take things too seriously, in fact in one show, the same person fell three times and got up laughing. My friend and i had a fantastic time here and have booked to go again in june and are taking another friend along too. If you expect fine dining and luxury then you will be disappointed. If like us you want a fun holiday, good weather, an average hotel with just the nicest animation team then this is the place for you. You can join in with a variety of things or relax like we did. For those of you with children, i can only say that the animation team took great pleasure in looking after those kids, just like Tunisian pied pipers.
I hope you have fun here, we did and are looking forward to going back.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
April 2006
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : Tracy East Sussex
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
Well, what can I say................................... Obviously I must be a very fussy person, I am not a snob by no means, but I do like my home comforts.
So this goes out to all you people that have high standards, this hotel is definitely not recommended..............
Skanes
There is absolutely nothing in the area apart from the hotels and a building site to the entrance, not that this bothers me as you get building sites every where that you go.
The Hotel
On entering the grounds of the hotel it all looked very nice, but don't let this fool you!
As we entered the reception area it all looked very nice at first sight, but after having a good look round it wasn't all roses.
Hardly any of the reception staff spoke much English (good job we can speak a little french)!
The man who exchanged the travellers cheques never smiled in the whole duration of the holiday.
A porter grabbed our bags as soon as we got into the hotel to take them to the room, which was quite nice, but when we got there he was hovering waiting for a tip which was a bit difficult seeing as we had no Tunisian Dinars, so I just kept saying thank-you, so he eventually got the message and left, but he was very polite and we did tip him on our return journey as he was waiting outside our room ready to carry our bags back to the reception area. Very efficient.
On entering our room, first impressions looked nice, as the maid had put flowers all over the beds and in the bathroom, which all looked very pretty, probably to take your mind off the poor features of the room.
The maid was still cleaning our room when we arrived, so we had to wait a while, after finally getting into our room we wanted to freshen up, after entering the bathroom we discovered that:
When we turned on the tap the whole tap fitting rotated round as was not fitted properly,
The plug mechanism in the basin was broken, so every time we wanted to pull the plug out, we had to climb under the basin and push up the metal bar to release the water.
We found cigarette burns inside the bath and to my standard the bathroom hadn't been cleaned very well.
The toilet was still dirty round the seat and floor still had hairs from previous people, not very nice at all. And there was also hairs on the floor in the bedroom, which to me is not very nice.
Going on to the beds, well the beds are not beds it is a concrete made surround with wooden slats across, with a mattress on top, which I have slept in before but the mattresses were very uncomfortable and you could feel the springs.
As for the pillows well they were stuffed so much they were hard, so I took it upon myself to rip open the pillows and take some of the stuffing out, having done so on one of my children's pillows it greeted me with black dirty stuffing that looked like old felt underlay. the blankets and bed spreads on the beds were not clean and had stains all over them.
The phone socket was hanging of the wall, there were no draws apart
from one little tiny one underneath the dressing table, which fell out
every time you pulled it out, so couldn't be used. One day a socket did
not work when we tried to boil our kettle, I told the rep and she tried
to say that the kettle was faulty or that the voltage was to high, if
this was the case all the sockets in the hotel would blow, due to all
english appliances, and besides the kettle was purchased in Spain with a
two pinned plug, so the voltage is exactly the same. the rep wasn't
helpful at all she told us the children couldn't go Quad-biking with Ben
in the hotel as he was not insured when in actual fact he is, we also
went on two excursions with First Choice as they were half what Thomson Holidays
s
were charging. The First Choice rep was at the hotel more often than the
Thomson Holidays
rep. The other Thomson Holidays
rep was very helpful and nice as she
helped us with a room change.
The TV in the room was broken, the balcony bars are in need of a severe paint job, and the fittings are loose, not suitable for small children who like to climb.
I was lucky in this respect as my children were 11 and 13, but not very safe for toddlers so beware.
The Dining Room food was ok if you like this sort of food, during the course of one week we ate:
Pancakes, Soup, Yorkshire Pudding with Gravy, Cereals and Omelette.
The mashed potato was sloppy, scrambled egg one lump or two and sometimes burnt.
The drinks were watered down, and the coffee was like tarmac, but if you like it strong then you are ok.
And as for all the children running around, I am surprised that none of them got burned as a lot of them were left to their own devices.
Most staff were friendly.
The Indoor Pool is very nice but when we were there a lad cut his foot open on the metal steps down the deep end, as there is a lump of metal sticking out and he had to have stitches.
The Outdoor Pool was nice what we saw of it if you can get round it, but you will have to get up at 6am to put your towels on the sunbeds or you won't get round it.
The slide pool was closed and opened the day we left, they opened it early due to people complaining, but the slides have not been waxed so would be dangerous for children, but at one point we did see a little girl be carried to medical room because she'd hurt her foot, whether she did it on the slides or not we do not know.
You can also use a sauna which smelt musty and there is a gym, which comes with your all inclusive deal.
Also beware if you don't read the booklet in your room it states that you will be charged for snacks and drinks at the slide pool, you do not get them with your all inclusive.
The Beach was dirty and splinters from rubbish, they do have great big black beetles walking across the sand but if you do not like these creepy crawlies then best not go.
however my children were happy to discover little hermit crabs and crabs on the beach around the weed. Seaweed at waters edge and not to clean. You also get hounded by people trying to sell you cigarettes and various other items on the beach, and it is no good saying you have no money because they to you bring it later or they pick it up from the room.
Safety Deposit Boxes are located by the reception, there are two different types of safe.
One type is very small and has one key, which is big enough just to fit the width of a passport. The other type is spacious but has two keys, one which you are given when you pay for it at the reception, the other key is located by under the stairs hanging on a chain.
When you check in at Gatwick or wherever you will given green cards which you will have to fill in and hand in at Passport Control the other end, when you come back on your return flight you will also have to hand in the other half of the green forms to leave the country.
Also when you get to the hotel you will also have to fill in another form for every person in your party before they give you a room key.
And the good points about this place was the clean towels.
If any of the above does not matter to you then you will have a good holiday.
HAPPY HOLIDAY IF POSSIBLE
If you have booked this hotel I would recommend that if you have time to change then I would do so to another resort like Sousse or Port el Kantoui.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice Holiday's (March 26th 2006)
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : Les & Liz Murray Cumbria (49,47)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We had not been to Tunisia before so we were a little bit apprehensive
When we arrived, once off the plane we went into the passport control
building which was in utter chaos as there was about 4/5 planes that
arrived in around the same time there were Queues everywhere with no-one
telling us where we should be or directing us where to go, we were very
pleased that first choice staff had handed out forms on the plane that
we needed (Thomson Holidays
passengers were not happy as they had none & were not
told anything)
Once we got through passport control & the security checks our cases seem to take forever, we found the first choice reps very easy and once we got on the coach it was not long before we arrived at the hotel we got booked in which took a bit of time but that is expected as there was a full coach load booking in, our room was very nice & basic but it had everything we needed and was very clean & well decorated.
Our welcoming meeting was excellent Lisa our rep was very informative she covered everything we needed to know explained all about the country, area, trips, hotel etc, Lisa was always in the hotel when she said she would be.
We found the food very good it was a bit repetitive at times but there was always something to eat our waiter was Adel he was brilliant we were well entertained by him.
The bars were always well staffed & were constantly clearing the tables
The immediate area surrounding the hotel was very poor not a lot to see or do (unless you play golf) but the hotel itself has fantastic grounds which are kept to high standard
If you go on the beach you were hassled to buy things but you only needed to say no thanks and they went away but you get that in most countries.
We really enjoyed our stay here & would go back it was a very relaxing holiday
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: march 26 t0 2 april
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : 33,23
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
the hotel is very clean and tidy the rooms basic but what you want for the money excellent free drinks but spirits very watered down excellent facilities had to change rooms but ended up in a good 1 food good but very repetative after a week a bit fed up of the same the animation team for kids was excellent but evening activities very poor that needs sorting
overall nice hotel would go again if the things above were sorted 8/10
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: on the beach - 2006
Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : li'anne and family 31 36 11 11
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
like others we read reviews after we had booked and decided oh well 50/50 we'll just go with the flow. i have never reviewed nor complained about a holiday until now...food was awfull,as were the drinks, this states all inclusive,however you have to buy ice creams, candy floss and pop corn for the childrens,we booked a sea view room and didnt get one,even after complaining, there was poo in the pool every day.there was blood on the floors,poo on the floors, the place stank of raw sewage, everyone we spoke to were hating it and couldnt wait to leave, staff very friendly (all for a price!)
unfortunately this was our first all inclusive and we have been put off for future all inclusives.i cant even be bothered to go on about this place it just gets me down.on the beach when i called just inform them for future ref were very rude.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - October 2005
Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : Trevor Wilson - Aberdeenshire (42,45,13)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Been to Tunisia for the first time so was a bit apprehensive when arrived due to the reps comments about the locals will try to rip you off at every oppertunity & he would have know as he was Tinisian (must admit Isam was topper of a guy)
When shopping at the medina at Sousse & Monistair each vist was a terrible experience with nearly every "shopkeeper" hastling to get us into their shop & once we went in they would try to sell us anything they thought they we looked at.
The location of the hotel is very poor so I see why it would have to be all inclusive, I did like the entrance to the palm links golf course which is directly opposiite the hotel gates.
Quite impressed with the kids pool with the chutes & slides, even had a go myself.
Food was ok for the first week but very boring half way through the second week.
This hotel was very clean throughout & the bar staff didn`t wait long before they cleared empty glasses away from the tables.
Beware of the prices the shops in the hotel charge (about 50% more)
Things that put me off were little children begging from holiday makers, sometimes they hand over a flower & ask for 1 dinar.
Beware of your change in the shops as we were short changed a couple of times & the guy just said he had no change, so try to pay with the correct amount.
The entertainment is run by locals which acually do not a bad job, especially with the kids.
Quite a lot of Germans located here which was ok with me, but this might bother some people as saddly alot of them appear to be very abrupt & just push their way into queues for food & drink
Anyway the drink was very good, the weather was excellent so I suppose a succes i holiday terms
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - Oct 2005
Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : Carol - Essex 51 Alex -Essex 56
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
This hotel is for Families only unless you like to be with lots of children.
also no good for disabled as there are no lifts
This is not a relaxing holiday as all the brochers say.
No good for disabled - No Lifts
Hotel - Very basic but clean
No AC after September which was awlful..good job I took my mini fan with me as you cannot keep the windows open due to the mosi,s (note the mosi's are really bad at the mini golf early evening.
Food -
Really good for kids as there is Chips,Pizza, Speghetti, Ice cream every day.
Didnt like the meat except for one evening when they had turkey on and I managed to get breast.
Veg - very limited
soup - Most times very bland or very faty.
Bread was ok in the evenings but a little stale in the mornings to have with your breakfast.
Managed to find something to eat most nights.
Pool 1 - A lovely pool but was full of children(expected when this was a family hotel) Music blarring out all day long..I like music but NOT all day.
Pool 2 - Which was by the entrance had slides in it a brillient idea for families.
Didnt get to see the eveing entertaimment so cannot comment.
Skanes - A place we would not re-visit there was nothing there except building going on or buliding sites that had been left for months/years.
There are places you can go to which we did and to be honest would go back to Tunisia but deffinatly not Skanes or that hotel.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Sunset - September 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Miss Steward - Essex (19,19)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Please Find below a Very honest and truthful account of out holiday at houda, one Never to be repeated. This is what i wrote in a letter of complaint to thomas cook after returning as they did not sort out our problems when we were there. PlZ don't let the size of the review put u off , its very honest. One bit of advice....DON'T GO!!!
Following myself and my friend - Miss Taylor completing the customer relations report, we handed it to our sunset representative at 20:00hr on the 08/09/2005 (please note it was less than 24hrs after arrival), after which we encountered several more problems with our holiday, these have been described on a day to day basis included below.
Day 1: 07/09/2005
Most of the day was spent travelling. When we landed in Monastir, Tunisia we got taken on a coach to Houda Golf & Beach Club. We fill in an I.D card at the hotel and get given our room key - 617. The porter takes our bags up to the room to find that the room is not made up, it is messy and the previous occupants drinks are still left in there. On looking in the bathroom we find excrement left in the toilet. The porter could see our shock at coming in to this un-made dirty room, so we locked our bags and went to reception to report this.
They said we would have to move to another room, but they said we should look at it first to check it was ok. So off we trek to room 520. Our first impressions of it, was ok it was clean and tidy and the beds were made which is more than can be said for our first room. We then had to go back down to tell the porter it was ok, down 4 flights of stairs. After which we had to go back with the porter to room 617, which was in the other block and up another 4 flights of stairs to collect our bags to go back up to our room. All this had taken at an hour to sort out, and by this time we were in need of a drink as the heat was beginning to dehydrate us.
So we found our way back to reception to ask where we could get some water. The reply we got from the man on reception was "disco" before he returned to talk to the other man on reception. Miss Taylor and myself looked outside the front and back doors leading from reception but could see no sign for DISCO. By this point I was hot, tired, thirsty and tearful so I returned to the desk to explain we had no idea where the disco was, and we also had no all-inclusive wristbands to allow us to get a drink. At this point one of the men finally did show us to the disco, which was not signed and in a dark area of the complex. We tried to get a safety deposit box but were unable to. After all this messing around we returned to the room, and thought we would wait until the welcome meeting in the morning. So we went to bed.
Day 2: 08/09/2005
We got up early so we could get ready to go to the welcome meeting at 10am. I went in to the bathroom to find I could not flush the toilet, and NO WATER was coming out of the taps in either the sink or the bath. I thought I would give it 10 minutes then try again, so whilst I was waiting I opened the shutters and doors to have a look out at the view from the balcony. I was shocked. We had paid a supplement for a room with a view and it was of a RUBBISH DUMP, and GENERATORS! At this point I was disappointed. Half an hour later I tried the water and toilet again but to no luck. At this point, we both needed and wanted a shower as it was very hot and we were sweaty.
We both decided to get dressed although un-showered and go down to reception to see if our rep was about. Whilst down at reception we saw our rep and he was about to have his breakfast, we told him we would like to speak to him after. When we were waiting, we were speaking to another couple also with sunset who had encountered similar problems as us; they were also waiting to speak to our sunset representative. Miss Taylor and Myself also popped back to the room to check if the water was working, which it wasn't.
We spoke to the rep before the welcome meeting, and told him we were extremely unhappy at having no water to wash in and also about the problems from the previous night, we asked him if we could move to a different hotel as already we had encountered many problems at this one. He asked us to wait until after the welcome meeting to sort out the problem.
After the meeting the rep came back over to speak to us and he told us there was NO SPARE ROOMS in the WHOLE of Tunisia for us to move to, and our hotel had already been double booked. At this point he got the Guest relations lady to check our room, she returned to tell us there was nothing wrong with our room!!! Still un showered 4 hours after getting up I was getting extremely upset, and worried about what me and my 19 year old friend were going to do. We explained to the rep that if we couldn't be moved we wanted to fly home later that day. The rep told us the next flight wasn't until Sunday and today was only Friday. Feeling helpless in the situation we were in we returned to the room to get showered and try and enjoy the rest of the day we had left, the air conditioning was not working when we returned to the room. It was 1pm before we got a shower.
We returned to reception later in the evening to fill out the Customer relation's report, which the rep ENSURED US, would be dealt with in the week when we were there. On walking down to reception to hand it to the rep, the 4 flights of stairs were pitch black as no lights were on, we had to use our mobile phones to light up the steps!!!!
Day 3: 09/09/2005
We got up around 7am, so we could start the day afresh after yesterdays troubles and hopefully have a full day out in the sunshine and by the pool. Once again we found there was NO WATER and we couldn't flush the toilet!! So we thought we would go to breakfast anyway while we waited, hopefully that the water would work soon.
On walking down to breakfast we found a manhole cover, which I nearly tripped on as it was raised and in the middle of the path. When walking through reception we found chips and dirty cutlery on the table in reception, bearing in mind chips had stopped being served at 9pm the previous night and they were still laying around. We also found unfinished drinks around the pool, which had ants and bugs collecting in them. There was also rubbish at the edge of the pool. After breakfast we walked back to the room to find a big pile of broken glass blocking the main entrance to the hotel, at the time there were approximately 6 cleaners in reception and it took 10 - 15 minutes before anyone cleared it up. There was a thunderstorm just after breakfast, which had left a lot of water on the marble floor, and as we were very slowly and carefully walking to lunch one of the animation team pushed Miss Taylor 4 times in an attempt to push her over. This was no laughing matter as Miss Taylor has previously dislocated her knee, so was worried and annoyed that a staff member could be so silly. Later on at lunchtime we went to the calypso restaurant where my friend - Miss Taylor found a human hair in her rice!!!! Once again later in the evening when we were going down for dinner at approximately 8pm the staircases were pitch black, and it wasn't until we returned to the room after dinner that the lights were on, even though they were hanging off of the wall.
Day 4: 10/09/2005
At 1 AM this morning the phone in the room rang, didn't answer it as we didn't know why anyone would be ringing at this time of the morning, was a little freaked out. Today we decided to have a look at the slide pool area, whilst up there I went to go to one of the three toilets to find, one was broken, one was covered in excrement and the other was covered in blood. So as you can imagine I used none. We also noticed that the area surrounding the soft drink machine in the reception bar had a strong smell of baby sick. Whilst round the pool we spoke to a family who told us how they had found a mouse in their room, coming out from behind the toilet! They also told us that when they had gone out of the hotel to a restaurant recommended by the rep that they had been followed back to the hotel by the local men who attempted to try and climb the hotel wall to get in.
It was this night that the evening entertainment was moved inside away from the slide pool area which is at the front of the hotel. After this story Miss Taylor and myself decided it would not be safe for the two of us to leave the hotel complex as being two 19 yr old girls we would be vulnerable to the men. Later on in the afternoon Miss Taylor had to visit the medical room to get treatment for large infected mosquito bites. Whilst in there, we noticed it was very unclean and there was a substance splattered up by the bin. As we were leaving the medical room another young lady came in, and told the nurse she had food poisoning!
Day 5: 11/09/2005
Today we got up to find we had water in both the taps and shower and the toilet worked. Unfortunately when I was in the shower the hose fell out of the taps leaving the showerhead unattached. In our bathroom we had no plug and now no shower attachment so we could neither bath nor shower. This was very, very agitating and frustrating as I was left with wet unwashed hair. So I got dry and dressed although not properly showered and went to reception to report it. The rep was on airport duty so I spoke to the Guest relations lady. Although frustrated I was not rude or aggressive towards her, I simply explained the problem and was given a very rude, sarcastic response. It seemed like she didn't take us seriously because we are both young.
The problems experienced today, just joined our long list that we had from the start of this holiday. Anyway we tried to make the most of the day, once again. Around three o'clock Miss Taylor and myself were returning back to the pool area after being in our room. On the way down we bumped in to our rep on the stairs he was coming up to find us, to ask us if we wanted to move hotels as a room had become available at the Iberostar Sahara Beach hotel also in Skanes. He explained that we would have to pay 60 dinars to move to the Sahara beach hotel for the remaining 3 nights. We discussed it between ourselves and decided that we would move, as nothing could be as bad as this hotel that we were currently staying in.
Whilst down the reception area we spoke to another family who had told us how the man had been using the toilets in reception when a FROG jumped on his head and then jumped over the wall in to the ladies toilets. Another couple told us they had money stolen twice from the room by the maids. Thank goodness we were leaving!
Once we were all packed we came down to the reception area and the rep told us he wouldn't be taking us to the new hotel and that we had to get a taxi, we were both a bit apprehensive about this after the previous reports we had heard about leaving the hotel complex. The rep also gave us a bit of paper stating that we were booked in to the Sahara beach hotel for 3 nights and told us to hand it to reception at the new hotel and everything would be sorted.
Relieved to finally be leaving the Houda Golf and Beach club and
scared about the journey we set off in the taxi to the Sahara Beach
hotel. On our arrival we went to reception and gave the bit of paper to
them and told them we had been sent from Houda. The man behind reception
told us he knew nothing about our stay. At this point Miss Taylor and
myself were very anxious and stressed out over what was to happen to us
now. We tried to find our new rep but could not find him and were
eventually helped out by a Thomson Holidays
rep that showed us where the
emergency phone number was, as it was a new hotel and we had yet to find
the notice board. Fortunately for us we already knew that our original
rep was carrying the emergency mobile as he had previously told us, so
we rang him up and he spoke to the man at reception and sorted out our
stay there. We then went up to our third hotel room to unpack again.
Day 6: 12/09/05
Had a good day, getting to know our way around the new hotel. The Staff are a lot friendlier and helpful here and hotel is a lot cleaner.
Day 7: 13/09/05
Before we went to dinner in the evening Miss Taylor went to use the shower to find brown water coming out when the hot tap was on. She immediately turned it off and waited a while before trying again to find the same thing happen. We went down to reception to report this and they told us it would be fixed within an hour. We had a drink in the bar before trying again and again the water was still brown. We eventually decided we would have to have a cold shower otherwise we would not be ready in time to get any dinner in the restaurant. When we returned later in the evening we checked the water and it was clear again.
Day 8: 14/09/09
Finally its time to go home!
The weather was really nice today, so we decided to pay 40 dinars to get a late check out room as the majority of our supposed relaxing holiday was full of problems.
We got picked up to go to the airport to be told we had an hour delay on our flight. That really was the last thing that could possibly go wrong on this holiday.
Day 9: 15/09/05
We land in the early hours of the morning in to Gatwick airport. What a relief.
After reading the above diary of our holiday can you understand the utter disappointment and upset felt by both Miss Taylor and myself at what was supposed to be a relaxing holiday, which turned in to an absolute nightmare. We booked with Sunset knowing that it was part of Thomas Cook and this reassured us in knowing that we were travelling with a reputable and well respected company. Or so we thought, but we were proven wrong. I have travelled abroad with many other travel companies and NEVER have I experienced the problems that I did on this holiday to Houda Golf and Beach Club in Skanes Tunisia.
It was not a relaxing Holiday, it was stressful the whole way through and coming home to us both was a great relief! We spoke to many people at the Houda hotel and know that it wasn't just us who had problems, lots of people did.
The holiday we had to endure was not acceptable.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- Aug 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : Natalie Porter (25, 24)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Where do you start with the Houda Hotel.
This was the worst holiday of my entire life.
The Houda Hotel does not cater for British Tourists.
I survived on very expensive crisps from the hotel shop.
I complained and complained and the rep done nothing to help. She was more interested in getting me to send a letter when I got home to help next years guests.
The pool, room and food area's were complete filth. I contracted a bacterical infection whilst out there and still have it 9 months on... Which effects my stomach... It has been suggested that it has been caused by dirty waters within the pools or poorly prepared foods. I will have to live with constant vomitting and general unwellness for anything up to 12 months.
You would be better off in Butlins...
Sorry to be so negative but it was honestly the worst experience in my life, from the illness, to being threatened in the medina's to getting stared at by male staff, getting clothing stolen from our room and having a rep that frankly did not give a damn.
If you have already booked, be sure to never use the medical room as all the doc wants to do is give you a jab, plus he charged me £100 to tell me I was ill... But he didn't know what was wrong with me... Great £100 spent...
Also, go prepared... Take all the necessry medication that you may need...
Take the most mosi cream you have ever seen... Its like no where else... You'll be covered head to toe within 2 days...
If you are scared of spiders, beware... They're black and white and they jump...
My sympathy goes to all who have encountered and all that soon will have the dreaded experience to live with...
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Blanche Douglas - Buckinghamshire ( 36, 31, 6, 19mnth
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Well when we arrived in Monastir(airport) we were not infomed by First Choice cabin crew that we would have to fill out a ID card for all the people in our party. Therefore there was confusion for alot of people.
The room we were allocated was very basic not at all a 3* room, the lighting in the room was very poor and the air con made the room smell like a sewer.As for there being satelite TV there is if yiu are German or French.
The buffett resturant was clean i will say that but the food was the same thing over and over again you will be ok if you like chips every day. the resturant was supposed to open 1/2 hour early for lunch & dinner for children with a childrens menu?
The beach was lovely and clean but small so you need to arrive early to get your place, as for the pool area you have to get up at the crack of dawn to secure your sunbed every man for himself.
The childrens play area was terriable two rusty swings does not mean a playarea.
The aqualand was a good place for the young, lots of fun on the slides beware the floor is slippery I could not let any of my childern run as you would slip over.
Well the Animation Team did not live up to there description at all, the evening entertainment was naff and every night same routine! I found the music 15yrs out of date for my family.
The snack bar serves chips, pizza every day.
The Drinks were ok great for kids who loves sickly sweet drinks on tap, The alcohol was a vey limited choice and the cocktails same thing different colour.
The rep was nice enough at the welcome meeting he job was to sell as many excursions as he could.
The sports activitys were nil just tennis courts x2, broken basketball hoops, some sort of crazy golf and tiny football area.
If you are planning on not eating much and just sunbathing you will probably enjoy yourself if not then you may get very bored. Myself and my partner both lost weight and belive me we were expecting to put it on.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - June 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : Laura - Lancashire (23,40,3,44,53)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at the hotel in the middle of the night and the staff were very efficient and friendly. We got through the form filling quite quickly and were shown to our rooms. The room was clean and basic, the only problem we found was having no fridge in the bedroom for cold drinks, i was pregnant at the time and during the middle of the night a cold drink would have been great! The bunk beds for children are quite high and we had our daughter sleep in our bed as we were afraid she might fall off the bed.
The morning after we went for beakfast and again everything seemed pleasant. We have a lively 3year old daughter who has very blonde hair and she was treated NO differently than any other child!!! We went to the pool area and the beach the first day and we had no trouble getting near the pool. The slide pool was a big bonus for us although you do have to be up early to put out your towels around this area. Evening entertainment wasn't fabulous caberet but it was quite funny with the peculier routines they put on for shows. The meals can become repetative but it can't be easy catering for all natinalities.
Theres nothing really around Skanes but Monastir is beautiful, great for shopping and history, especially around the castle were the film "The life of Brian" was filmed well worth the visit.
Will definatly be going back next year.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Sunset june 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : danielle goddard - nuneaton (29,24,2)):
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
every british person there felt the same way so were not fussy people. when you land you will see nothing and thats what you get, when you eventually get to your resort after what seems endless form filling (which is ironic really cause they couldnt careless who comes out of the country security wise)you will find the hotel is where your confined as there is nothing else except salt mines.
from the outside hotel looks impressive but looks are decieving.our room was very basic the rooms shown in the books are the renovated ones which are a few on the ground floor. our 2 year old was given a very high bunk bed with a razor sharp piece of metal sticking out,which maitainance hammered back in after we complained. the air con leaked all the second week in huge puddles on a tiled floor, very dangerously slippey.one channel on sat tv which was 24 hour news.
the holiday rep didnt tell us about having to reserve a table for dinner (you give ticket to reserve the same table for the whole duration)this resulted in us being shouted at by a swiss man for sitting at his table even though he had already used it. the food is horrendous expect to live on chips and pizza and expect to break your neck on the floors in there (its not being picky every one complained because so many fell badly)wear flat shoes. there are maily germans at the resort who take preferance with the hotel, best rooms, best tables and they are so rude they knocked my daughter over many times.
you wont get a sunbed either and its no joke trust me.one day someone pooed in the pool and it took 2 hours for the pool people to fish it out they just let people keep swimming round it. hygiene is not great here.the hotel shop is expensive but the souks are frightening especially if you have blond kids or just kids in general. we got mauled and they wont let you leave the shop.they did what they called henna tattoos in the hotel complex which we are both now scarred from its back hair dye although they will tell you its just there version.
the beach is dirty and there is a sewerage pipe from the hotel into the sea that only runs into it a few metres. the all inclusive drinks are a joke (only 3 beer taps in the whole place pool bar included) be sure to ask for bottles of water at the bar as they dont tell you this and you will be forever filling little cups. many people were ill too with the craps. come fully prepared and dont visit the on site medical centre as everyone we knew were given injections for any health complaints and you are charged a fortune for it.
i could go on and on.all i can say is the entertainmant workers are lovely and there wonderful with the childeren but thats it. we tried to get home after the first week but couldnt afford it. we hated it that much. Not Recommended.
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Houda Beach Resort - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Rebecca Andrews - Peterborough (47,24,5)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We read the reviews on this website before we left and tried to change the holiday but we were told it was to close to the departure date and we would lose 70 percent of what we had paid so we had no option but to travel. We decided that we had to go regardless so we stocked up on all medical items we thought we were going to need and decided to travel with an open mind.
We arrived on June 12th 2005 for two week stay. The first impressions of the hotel were rather pleasing after the reports we had read. The hotel was lovely, clean and the pools were fantastic. If it had not been for the food I would have given the accomodation rating an excellant.
However the holiday did not match up to the hotel I am afraid to say. You can not leave the hotel to go for a walk or a stroll as there is NOTHING what so ever to do. You have to get a taxi to Monastir or Sousse (8 dinar roughly £4.00) The Fixed price Yasmine centre in Monastir is lovely and worth a visit however you have A LOT of hassle from market people just on the walk down the small path to the shop. You have to be firm if you dont want to look or else you will never get away unless you buy something however, if you are going to look please make sure you haggle as they will rip you off big time!! For example we went into the fixed price shop and saw a handbag for 28dinar I wanted to go to the market to see if I could get it cheaper he wanted 98dinar!! He did eventually come down to 29 but we got it cheaper in the fixed price shop and we didnt have to bother with all the hassle to get it.
When we arrived and went to our welcome meeting we were told by our rep that Monastir and sousse are no go areas after 6pm. So you are confined to your hotel wether you like it or not! Port El Kantoui was very nice it cost 12dinar (approx 6.00) to get there in a taxi and we were told that you could visit here anytime day or night however we went there in the afternoon and was not so sure how safe it would be at night. We were warned in our welcome meeting about people who would come up to you in Monastir or Sousse and pretend to be from your hotel then try to get you to go on a FREE ride this results in you being locked in their brothers carpet shop and practically forced into buying carpets. However this did not happen to us in Monastir or sousse but somebody did approach us in Port El Kantoui and tried but we were aware of the scam and said a firm no thanks!
If you have children there is a little fun fair in Port el kantoui which I took my five year old to and he loved going on the rides. He also enjoyed the Ostrich farm which we booked as a trip from the tour operator. And if you want to break your holiday up which we had to do or else we would have gone mad the pirate ship was a great laugh we booked the tour through the tour operator and this was definatley one of the hilights of the holiday.
Now the Hotel: Well what can I say the food left a lot to be desired. I have read a lot of people say the food was good it was not. I have been on an all inclusive holiday before and this did not match up. On one day I brought my 5 yr old a breaded turkey and chips back to the table and when I got back the meat was not cooked properly it was still pink in the middle so make sure you check your childrens food. All of my party had constant diarrohea through out the holiday starting on about the second day. (thank god we had come prepared with our medicine) On the thursday of the second week my child woke at 1.15am and was sick everywhere by this point I was sick and tired of the holiday and just wanted to come home.
I went to see the rep at 9.00 in the morning and I said to him what had happened and I believed it was the food and he said I will fill a form out and hand it to my manager so he can come and check the food because you are not the first person I have had come and report this to me this morning. When I went back the following day to collect my return travel details he tried to ask me if my sons sickness could be due to the climate change for him at this point I explained he is 5 years old and this is his 6th time abroad and we have been to hotter climates than this with him and he has never been poorly on holiday before.
There was little choice in selection for food for children and if they want an ice-cream good luck! They only serve ice-cream in the main dinner hall which is open 12.30-2.30 and I had to queue for 15 minutes to get him one small scoop.
The beach was not very clean and we only went on it twice. Foo Foo the animation guy was excellant with the kids my son only went to the kids club twice but he loved it and whenever Foo foo saw him around he would always make time to come and have a play with him. Foo Foo was definately the saviour for my holiday as he made my child happy and he loved the kids disco something he would never have normally participated in.
During the first week the brits were definately out numbered by the germans some of them were very nice, but majority were rude. The second week it was a little more even numbered. Our waiter in the dinner hall kept asking if when we went home we would leave some of my sons clothes for him to give to his 3yr old son. When you hear what money they make you can understand why. The animation guys when we were there worked 7 days a week 7am-12pm and they took home 300 dinar(£150.00approx) per month. We read in some of the reviews that things had gone missing from the rooms we took yale locks and kept everything locked in the suitcases. Be careful with your money round the towns we spoke to one lady who had her purse snatched from her hand in the afternoon by a kid.
I know this is a lenghty review, but I no what I was like when I was going and I wanted to know everything so I have tried to give an honest and fair account. We did not get this as a cheap holiday we could have got cheaper.
So Overall: In my opinion if you are thinking of going here think again you can get much better for the money you pay. However if you have already booked to go here and you do not want to change it (I wish I had changed it earlier though) go with an open mind take on board everything you have read, i.e take diarrohea tablets and bite cream, and just see what you think.
The hotel was lovely and clean and the pools were brilliant. If you want a relaxing holiday with nothing to do apart from read a book swim and chill then you'll be ok apart from the food.The most important thing to remember if you are going to go to the towns NOTHING IS FOR FREE! When you say no to buying their goods they will ask if you want a photo taken with them do not take one they will charge you 1dinar! Oh one last thing you can only change your money into dinars once you are in the country. Change little and often as when you come home you also have to change your money back up in their country you can not do it over here and they rip you off bigtime so the less you have to change back the better! We had 150dinar left (which is approx £75.00) when we changed it back we got £55.00 for it.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice june2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : gary newman-herts (42, 38,10)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
I read all the reviews before we went and i didnt want to go at all but as soon as we arrived the friendliness of the staff and the relaxed atmostphere made me think again Our room was fine and had a great shower and the pool area was really clean and well cared for the food was good and available most of the day when i asked for water we got a whole bottle and the fizzy drinks were always cold and fizzy. my son loved the waterslides and most holidays you pay extra to go to a water park.i found the entertainment team brilliant especially Foo Foo who was always being thrown in the water by the kids my son has told me we must go there again next year.
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Houda Beach Resort - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset - may 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Hutchins familly (42,39,7)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
After reading other reviews on the hotel we very nearly canceld our holiday, im pleased tosay we didn't. The tunisian were very frendly and made you feel welcome, the hotel catters for germans, dutch,russians and english and the staff can speak most of these laugages.
Accomdation was comfortable and clean and considering the size of the hotel and amount of people that stay its wearing very well.some rooms don't have mosceto netting so you can't leave windows open at night, my son got 156 bites and we spent many early hours trying to flatten the buggers take some protection.
The food was good my 7 year old found plenty to eat every day and they have special childrens menu at a selected time. There was alway freshly cooked pizza which was serve throughout the day.
The drinks were good size measures. vodka & gin 40% brandy of sorts! and buca there local drink was good. Red and white wine was fine and good beer and they will make a shandy if you ask, they did diferent cocktails every night.
The pools and water park are lovely although it took 10 days to convince my son to go down them but when he did there was no stopping him.and you do need to put your towels out about 8am to get a pool side seat, thats proberly todo with the time of year, when we left it was June and things were really getting going .
shopping go to the goverment centre the prices are fixed so you don't need to haggle and the prices are amazing cheep, but if you fancy a haggle the medina is place but they will hassel you which means you can't brouse be firm but polite and its fine.
The beach was nice and clean a bit to much sea weed on the waters edge. there's lots to do paragliding, banana boats,doughnuts,jetski,horse riding.
The animation team work hard trying to get you to do things but if you don't want to they will leave you alone. if your young and blonde then they will make a bee line for you.
and last but not least froo froo children entertainer was an amazing guy he always had time for the children and never seem to tire of the little darling the man is a saint.
Just rember its a diferent culture and have a open mind and your have a great time.We did.
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Houda Beach Resort - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Skytours - May 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Sharon Hall - Peterborough (36, 35, 4, 2)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I booked this our annual holiday way back in September 2004, and then found this web site. I began to read the reviews, and started to worry about what I had done in booking this hotel, as the reviews were not very good.
I spent many a sleepless night worrying about what sort of hell hole I was taking my children to, and towards the build up of the holiday, I was very anxious and nervous.
All I can say, is there must be 2 Houda Hotels, as the one that I have just returned from was nothing like what has been described in the reviews - please read on!
On arrival at Tunisia, we had a 10 minute coach ride to our Hotel. We arrived late at night, but were quite quickly shown to our room. We had a double bed, a single bed for my 4 year old, and a cot for my little girl. The room was large enough and the bathroom was bigger than the one we have at home, and the Shower is fantastic! Best power shower I've ever had, although, do remember to keep the Shower curtain inside the bath!!!
In the morning, we woke and went for breakfast. We were given a table by the waiter, which would be our table for the whole duration of the holiday. There was quite a selection for breakfast, toast, eggs, cereals, pancakes, croissants, danish pastries, salads, meats and cheeses. There was a cooked breakfast, but nothing like an 'English Breakfast' but non the less, it was there if you wanted it.
After breakfast, we had a look around and went and sat by the pool. The pool is one of the best that I have seen whilst being on holiday. It slopes in at the shallow end, which is fantastic for toddlers and young children. There were ample sunbeds, and yes, the Germans' did get theirs on in the morning, but we were no different, our friends would go out as early as they could to try and beat them at their own game - so who was worse????
The Hotel has a good mix of English, Germans, French, Dutch, Czech, Italians - I wouldn't say that any nationality was more prodominated than another.
About 10 'o' clock, the Pool bar served coffee and croissants. At 11 'o' clock the actual pool bar was open. Soft drinks, coke, beers what ever you wanted. There is a bar in the main hotel area, which is open from 10am until 12pm also. If you want water, you are given a whole bottle, which is handy for taking back to the room.
The pool bar serves lunch from 12 until 2pm and you can have things such as salads, chicken, bbq, spagetti bolognase, bread and also the Pizza Bar is open from 12 until 5pm. The Pizza is open again at 11pm at night, which I was told was good pizza!
Lunch can also be taken in the main dining room. The hotel have their own animation team, which, if you want to join in the activities, their is plenty to do all day, and if you don't then you are left alone - no hassle. The children have their own play area, which only has a couple of swings but non-the-less, it's there. My children didn't go to the Children's Club but a couple of times we did see the entertainers playing with them, and I did think that they were very good, and the children seemed very happy and content.
At 4.30pm, in the main bar, Tea, Coffee and Cake is served.
Tea is served from 6.30pm and there is a wide range of foods to be served. I did read a review that their were no Hamburgers! If you want that sort of thing, then you go to Butlins or Spain. From what I could see, they tried very hard to cater for everyone, and when you are cooking on mass, for about 800 people a time, it is difficult to please everyone. Every night there was a Carvey, Beef, chicken, Pasta, Salad, Chips, Bread, Cold meats, Vegetables - we always found something to eat, and not once while we were there did we have poorly or upset tummies. Yes, the food does become repetative, but doesn't it always when you are holiday.
The staff at the hotel all speak good English and the Tunisian people absolutley adore the children. They will chase them, play with them, touch them, get them drinks - anything just to be near them - all very harmless - they just love the children.
The beach is clean and tidy and we did take the children out on a Pedaloe and a Kayak. The chap on the beach gave my little boy a life jacket to wear, which I thought was good. There are various water sports on the beach, alot of people were doing the Parachuting and Banana Boating, not very expensive from what I could gather.
The sellers are on the beach, but if you just say no thankyou, they carry on walking. Not once did they bother us after we had said No. In the hotel, there is a jewellrey man who comes round, but again, just say No, and he carries on walking. I think what you have to realise, is this type of selling is quite normaly to them, you are in their country, and you should just accept the way they are. A polite No thankyou is all you need to say.
There is a little boy who comes round during the evening meal with flowers. He puts a flower down, walks off, and then comes back for his 1 dina (about 40p) I used to tell him No before he put the flower down - again, he was fine - just trying to get a bit of pocket money I suppose.
The waterslide park at the front of the hotel is great fun. My little boy hurt his side when my watch scrapped him as I caught him and the lifeguards acted swiftly and calmling to see if he was ok, and give him some basic first aid. Fantastic fun!
There is a group of Scuba Divers who come to the Hotel twice a week, and you are able to have a free go in Pool. They are wanting to you to purchase a trip voucher to go out to see, but they were very good and let my 4yr old have a go in the pool. Alot of people were having a go, and they did not mind if you did not purchase the trip afterwards.
The Hotel has a heated indoor pool, which was fabulous to take the children in in the heat of the day, as it reached the mid 40's whilst we were there.
The Hotel itself is clean, spacious and I didn't think it was run down at all. Our room was more than adequate for our needs, and why someone was complaining that there were no lift - it's only 3 floors high! The maid used to leave the children's pyjamas in the shape of a swan or flower, and always re-arrange their toys in a nice playful display. We never had anything go missing from our room.
Outside of the hotel, there isn't much to do. Just a road with a Power Station one end, and a few other hotels the other, but it's not the end of the world. If you want to shop, you can go to either Monistar or Sousse, both by Taxi (8 dinars) or Bus (2 dinars) plus there is a little train that goes to Monistar from outside the Hotel.
To sum everything up, it is one of the best holidays that I hav ever had, the people are some of the most friendly that I have ever met. There are not many places that I would visit again, but this is definatley one of them. I think, from what I can gather from reading other reviews, is that people were not completly aware or understanding of the type of country they were visiting. This is a very poor country. Our money to them is like gold-dust. If you can see past that and just be aware that different countries have different cultures and ways of life then you will have a wonderful holiday.
As I say, if I knew in August 2004 what I know now, I would have no hesitation in booking this holiday or hotel again.
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: firstchoice - may 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : lindsay & Harvey (both 25)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from a fantastic holiday in Houda Hotel. I have given the resort an average rating as there are only a couple of hotels on a stretch of road. We did not pay alot for this holiday and were very happy at the value for money we received.
Rooms- rooms clean and spacious but not much furniture. Cleaned and new towels every day.
Food- breakfast is best for vegetarians as very little cheese and eggs at lunch or dinner. The salad bar is fantastic and there are always choices for children and adults. There are two excellent restaurants which you can visit once per week of your stay (italian one is best!) The snack bar is handy if you just want pizza, burger or chips. Word of advice-try to avoid restaurant at peak times as many other nationalites do not believe in waiting their turn or queing at all!!! If you like your tea then take some teabags as the tea is a bit weird.
Facilities- pools are excellent and the waterpark is a great addition for children and adults alike. The animation team are friendly and try to get everyone interested in activites. However, evening entertainment not fantastic and multi-nationality bingo doesn't quite work!!
Beach- not fantastic really. bit dirty and lots of rubbish in ocean, we didnt spend much time there.
Staff- A little tip goes a long way here. staff are pleasant enough but when shown appreciation, become better.
Excursions- everywhere you go you are hounded by shop owners to barter for prices and buy. We kept our eyes down most of the time. There is a large shop in sousse which is good for shopping as the items are set price. We went on the two day desert safari trip which was excellent and we would reccommend to anyone (except young kids as there is a lot of time spent on the coach).
Weather- great in May but think would be scorching july and august.
We had a great time but I do not think would be returning to resort as there is very little to do outside hotel.
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- April 3rd 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Sue, Michael, Deb, Dave, Elisia - (38,39,43,35,2)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
I can not say that this was a 3 star plus Hotel. The rooms were very basic. However, the rest of the Hotel was a lot better. The pool area was fantastic. The waether left alot to be desired too!
During our first week the beach was filthy and didn't get cleaned till the middle of our second week... apparently the start of the season! We also noticed that the quality of food changed. Although it was quite good to begin with it was always the same, but suddenly changed, again we were told it was the start of the season. I found this quite disgusting as we paid over £2700 for this holiday. Also it was an all inclusive, but again we did not have access to any of the stated water sports or activities. Only archery, tennis, which didn't have enough rackets or balls to go wrong and a type of crazy golf. As for the advertised aerobics, this took place in the reception inform of everyone.
The brochures state there is satalite television - yes there is,foreign There was only 1 English channel - BBC World. the beach is stated as private with no peddlars, however the minute you step on the beach you are surrounded by them.
As for the site of the Hotel, it is in the middle of an industrial area. There was a golf course across the road. Our partners went for a walk wrong it before playing and half way round there is sewage works! Again not stated in the brochures.
The animation team at the hotel tried very hard to entertain us, and did put on a few good shows. however, they could be quite over powering. One in particular bugged us for the whole week asking us to give him our CD player. He became quite rude when we said no. The best one on the team was Su-Su. fantastic person.
Daily you have to run the gauntlet of trip touts as they are all set up between you and the dinning room. Your patience runs thin by the end of the holiday and you keep getting ask "do you want to ride my camel"!
The Thomson Holidays
rep was a very disgruntled person. At the welcome meeting
she introduced herself then asked us what we wanted to know as she
couldn't be bothered to talk... but her choice of langauge was a little
bit more descriptive to say the least. Some one asked what her best
advice was for any trips and she said "Go Home". All this was said
infront of the Hotel Liasion, who was mortified. Apparently, she was
very disgrunttled as she hadn't been paid since January.
The store liasion was a lady called Jan. She was absolutely wonderful and a great help. Especially when 2 of our party was ill. She was a star when it came to us seeing the doctor and nurse.
If you do choose to vist Tunisia, be aware that the men are very touchy feeley (especially if you are blonde). They are very in your face when you vist the markets or go on trips. They don't take no for an answer very easily.
Overall this was not a very enjoyable holiday and i definately would not recommend it to anyone.
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Houda Beach Resort - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
Pricebreaker - March 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Alex Heney - Merthyr Tydfil (46,55)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
It is hard to describe the area as a "resort". It is just a strip of hotels along the beach. One or two have bars open to outsiders, or mini-markets, but otherwise, there is NOTHING within walking distance apart from the hotel, the golf course, and the beach.
Monastir and Sousse are both easily reachable by bus, for less than 1 Dinar (2.2 Dinars to the pound). In both places you get a LOT of hassle from the shopkeepers, unless you shop in the "tourist Centre" fixed price shops. Leather goods and ceramics are the best bargains, and are much cheaper in town than in the hotel "boutique".
You also get hassle on the beach from people trying to sell you cigarettes - supposedly Marlboro or other named brands, but actually apparently all identical really cheap and nasty things. DON'T buy from them.
The hotel itself is generally good, spotlessly clean, both the room and the public areas.
The staff were all friendly, and all except one or two of the waiters in the main restaurant spoke good English. I'm not sure how well they would cope when the hotel was full. Most of the time we were there (apart from the weekend) it was only about 1/4 capacity.
Guests were a wide variety of nationalities, as the hotel is used by tour operators from UK, Germany, France, Sweden, Netherlands, and Belgium.
When we were there (March 16th - 23rd), the waterpark pool at the front of the hotel wasn't open. They filled the pool the last two days, but didn't turn on the slides. I think it unlikley that pool will be in use outside April - October.
The main pool complex was open throughout, but rather too cold to be pleasurable in the water. The indoor pool was always warm, but often crowded. There is also a Hammam, with massage available (extra cost).
The food was good, with a reasonable variety in the buffet. We were each allocated a tabvle at the start of our stay, that was supposed to be ours for the whole stay. But the Sunday was Tunisian Independence day, and the start of school holidays, and so for the weekend, the hotel has a large influx of locals (from what we heard, so did many other hotels), who thouroughly disrupted the table arrangements.
You also get the chance to eat once each at their Tunisian and Italian a la carte restaurants. We ate in the Tunisian one, which had similar food to several of the dishes on offer in the main restaurant, but better cooked, and in a really nice setting. We didn't bother with the Italian, because my wife isn't really a fan of Italian food.
The brochure says that local alcoholic drinks are inlcuded, but taht actually meant ALL drinks available from the bars, as no others were served there. The choice was beer (Celtia lager), Red, White or Rose wine, Boukha (local spirit made from figs), Cedratine (local orange liqueur), Vodka, Gin, Martini or Muscat de Tunis (dessert wine), plus Coffee, Tea, Hot chocolate, pop, bottled water, fruit juices ()reconstituted). All of these were available somewhere in the hotel from 10am to 2am.
We did find the interior of the hotel rather noisy, as there are a lot of large, echoing spaces, with marble floors everywhere. This did quieten down a lot after about 11pm. Again, it was markedly more noisy when the large number of locals were around.
Entertainment was basically provided by the "Animations" team. During the day, this consisted of various games such as volleyball, boules, etc., and dance or exercise classes. In the evening they put on a variety of shows in the dico area.
The Thomson Holidays
's rep apepared for the welcome meeting, which was mainly
a sales pitch for their excursions, and then we hardly saw her again all
week.
We only took one excursion, to the Roman ruins at Dougga and Thuburbo Majus. We had a local guide for the excursion, who spoke good English and kept us well informed. This was a long day (left the hotel 6:30am, returned 7:15pm), and is probably not a good idea in the heat of the summer, or the middle of winter (the guide said there had been two feet of snow at Dougga three weeks before).
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- February 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Richard Green (30,50)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked this holiday at the urging of the Thomson Holidays
travel agent.
Wish we hadn't bothered!!!
The facade of the hotel is lovely. The room was basic but clean. That is the best part of this particular hotel.
This hotel has no lifts!
The food was awful. Very little choice at mealtimes. Lived on chips until we could transfer to another hotel. Arrived on Wednesday afternoon, had chips, gave it the benefit of the doubt and had chips for evening meal. The supposed beef stew was beef gristle in very thin gravy (very little actual meat content)! Breakfast was eggs, eggs or eggs, followed by cereal and toast that took forever to change from bread to toast unless you were willing to stand there putting the bread through numerous times. By this point it was very crispy, but was a proper toast colour.
Rep turned up late Thursday morning. We spoke to her immediately and requested notification of other hotels because we did not want to stay here. She persuaded us to go and look at other hotels because she told us we had to get booked out by noon and it was just after 11:30am when she told us this and she did not have time to do the paperwork and get us booked out.
We had to spend another horrible day at this hotel and booked out as early as possible the following day. We got to our new hotel quicker than our paperwork!!!!
New hotel was much better (which wasn’t difficult) and only £71 extra
including the Thomson Holidays
admin fees.
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Houda Beach Resort - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- February 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Roy Beeson - Stoke on Trent 49,48
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having read the comments on this hotel we decided to take a risk and make our own minds up. Big mistake.
The hotel is showing its age although they are doing it up. This hotel is not a three star plus as advertised at best it rates two stars. The rooms were basic with no seats very poor lighting , so bad you could not read a book. TV reception was very poor with BBC World the only channel in English. The one saving feature of the room was the heater as it went cold around 4pm. Th reception was always full of smoke even in the no smoking area you could not get away from it.
The Animation team did their best to keep people entertained through out the day. However, when it comes to entertainment at night you need professionals not the Animation team. Do not expect an evening of pleasurable entertainment at this hotel.
The food was mainly amaimed at German taste. It was never hot just warm. Two nights are allocated for Al A Cart - Madina (Tunisian) and Italian. We ate in the Madina which has the same food as the main restaraunts, it was poor to say the least. We passed on the Italian night.
The weather was mixed in the resort with some rainy days. We went on the Gold trip into the desert which is limited to 25 people on the coach and lasts for two days. This trip was the Highlight of our holiday without this our holiday would have been a total waste of money. This trip cost nearly two hundred pounds for the two of us. But when the rep sells you the trip she forgot to mention you pay extra for the Camel and Oasis rides. The trip is fantastic though.
I could write a lot more but it would all be negative. Sorry if i put
people off this hotel but its my honest opinion. If Thomson Holidays
are reading
this please think about your re- classification of this hotel. This was
not a cheap holiday or a pricebreaker we paid brochure price. The peolpe
who paid pricebreaker price were less impressed than us.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice
Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : Lozza Leicestershire (42,33,12,10)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Went to tunisia with apprehension as had been 10 years ago and hated every minute of it. This was our first holiday as a family following a marriage breakup and a new partner. We originally booked two rooms thinking the kids may be better in their own room next to me and my new partner. I had explained to them that if the rooms were not next to each other then they would have to share beds in our room.
On arrival the hotel looked very grand nice marbled floors friendly staff. Checked in no problem told rooms on same floor. I said i was hoping that they would be together manager said no problem u can have an interconnecting room if you like. Problem solved. Ok so the room was basic but very clean and the maid service was excellant. Hotel itself clean staff so friendly. food lovely. The highlight of the holiday tho was the entertainment staff. I have never been to an all inclusive where the entertainment staff have made such an impact. from 9am to midnight they had the whole hotel joining in. We played darts, mini golf, archery and it woz fantastic fun the kids were quite happy going with the entertainment staff if we wanted a break and we were all made to feel important. We went out of season in March. weather was comfortable like a spring day here. indoor pool was lovely as it was a bit cold to swim outdoors. The only negative i have about the holiday was the shopping experience. I hated the hassle of being dragged into shops then ripped off so we just didnt bother.
As for the boat trips from hotel lobby i wouldnt bother we got ripped off 20 dinar for some cr*p headscarfs before the boat had even set sail. Also the Bedoin feast booked from rep was expensive and dead boring. The horse show consisted of two riders doing exactly the same acrobatics on horses then being led into a marquee for food (yuk yuk yuk)-soup gross then some pastry with egg in even grosser then kous kous yuk yuk yuk! all whilst we watched belly dancing then more belly dancing and guess what more belly dancing! kids were bored and starving thank god pizza man was still there when we got back to hotel. Fritz and his camels are worth a go tho dead funny!!! The drinks are ok good measures but limited i usually drink bacardi or brandy but had to have vodka as there was b all else.
All in all it cost us £1100 for a week and it was one of the best holidays i've ever had. I would love to go back to see Danny Ben and the other enetertainers who made our holiday so fantastic.
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Houda Golf Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - 2005
Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : julie
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
First impressions was me wanting to come home, average hotel, average staff, Tunisian men never stopped staring at the women and making rude gestures.
Food was pretty boring and cold and the local drinks such as the vodka was like water, would never return to this country again unless i wanted to be robbed.
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset - December 2004
Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Alister Laidlaw - Suffolk ( 56, 8 )
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I didn't know what to expect but hoped there would be some sunshine. There was, but not enough. We had two warm days each week where we could lie by the pool.
For me the positives were:
1 The staff were so friendly and helpful. I've been in hotels in many countries and these people were some of the best I've encountered.
2 The hotel was clean and our bedroom was always spotless - maybe our cleaner was special for I heard other guests complain.
3 The food wasn't wonderful but I could always find something to enjoy. It must be really difficult to please so many varied tastes.
4 Our Thomas Cook rep was Tunisian and very helpful.
5 We enjoyed our shortish camel trip with Fritz. Worth the money.
Negatives:
1 I thought the entertainment was not at all varied.I chose the hotel because I thought my 8 year would be catered for - he wasn't. The young animation team seemed bereft of ideas especially when Fufu injured his leg.
2 The Crazy Golf was useless.
3 Get rid of the guys hustling on the beach.
4 Although all the alcohol is free the only spirits I tried was disgusting. The beer though was drinkable.
5 I don't like bartering but I expect it and can live with it in the towns. I don't expect it in the hotel!
6 Along the side of all the roads we passed along were mountains of garbage.
Would I go again. Probably not, but it wasn't the worst holiday I've ever had.
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Houda Beach Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset-Dec 2004
Opinion submitted in Dec 2004 by : Dawn Robinson -Chorley (40,36,16,15,7)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at the hotel Houda on the 12th of Dec. Weather was fine for first two days but after that it was cloudy and over cast, on the days when we did get sunshine it was to windy to sunbathe outside.(weather bit over)
I can imagine the hotel in peak season is more fun becuase of the waterpark attached to the hotel. But in winter although the ammination team try their best it got very boring doing the same games day in and day out.
We did go on the camel rides with Fritzz from the hotel and the family enjoyed this. Shopping is a nightmare, you get hassle all the time.
But and there is always a but, watch your belongings. Little things start to dissapear from your room, my sons friend had his mobile stolen out of his pocket in the hotel, a friend we met had £40 pound stolen from under her nose. The tunisian staff are all out to make money in any way they can. Dont be fooled into thinking that the staff look after you for your stay wanting nothing in return, they will by the end of the holiday have asked you for something.
We have been to Tunisia before and this did not happen, we will not be going back there again.
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook, Nov 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Lee Evans (21,22)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The first thing you notice as you arrive at the houda is it's massive and impressive looking reception/bar area, everything is spotless clean and there are plenty of english speaking staff to help you with what ever you need !
The rooms are basic but very nice and the bed was very comfartable, and we had an impressive view over the pool and beach area, very photogenic !
The pool area is again outstanding, very clean and well set out, and ofcourse while your around the pool you will come across the animation team, who I have to say kept us entertained all day and all night while we were there and for a gang that work unbelievable long hours they always have a smile on there face ! and you might hear about Foo Foo, he's the child entertainer in the day and I have to say the man is a living legend and is very very funny.
The food is nice, but repetative, I found myself eating chicken and chips alot and pizza from the snack bar, but they were nice !
The bar has a limited choice to be fair and i wasn't too impressed with only being able to have half pint glasses of beer, thus having to keep going for a refil, and i must warn you that the beer is very strong and you'll find yourself getting a little tipsy after just a few !
We went to Monastir and Souse too to the Medina's which are basically shops with no fixed prices, and it's fun to get some incredible bargains from the locals, though i must warn you fella's if you have a young blonde girlfriend/wife you patience will be tested by the local guys who stare and grab your female friends and even try to buy them for camels ! at first it is funny, but can become quite annoying i must admit.
Overall though a fantastic holiday and I'll be going back in the summer when it will be even hotter and even more lively !
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Independant travel - Oct 2004
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : M Parkin - Yorkshire (42, 37)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Only 5 mins taxi ride from the airport & for a few pounds meant we were at the hotel before the others who travelled on the plane with us. Were in our room by the time the coach arrived so well worth taking the taxi. Hotel lobby is impressive & staff helpful even if their English was limited. Became obvious that they cater for German guests in the main although we were told that this would be changing due to greater number of English guests now staying there. Food was ok, no iffy tummies tho became repetitive even after a week for me as I have a limited diet. Try the fish as is very good. Drinks are ok, spirits watery, wine def not best quality but beer was ok. Only allowed 2 drinks at a time from the lobby bar which could be a pain if in a large group.
Room was good, we overlooked the water park at the front of the hotel & had sun on the terrace nearly all day. On arrival every possible surface was covered in beautiful flowers, the bed, bath, tables, sink even the loo seat had artistic arrangements of petals!! One small point, make sure the curtain is in the bath when you shower as no drain on the floor. We had our own inside pool after my mistake!!!
A cheap taxi ride into Sousse took us to the Medina. What an experience!! Was the first day of Ramadam so v v hectic, quickly got tired of being bothered by shop owners & hung on to my other half for dear life in some parts! Very very smelly & some strange sights, the butchers hang head of the animals in the windows to signify which meat they sell which is a bit gruesome.
Did the camel ride which I enjoyed but my partner chose the relative safety of the horse drawn cart for the return journey.
Worth the money just to say have done it tho.
Sunday market in Monastir less mad than Sousse, barter like mad to get a good price tho beware as I got better quality leather bags etc at the airport on leaving and for better price with no hassle.
Facilities at the hotel are fairly good tho not a lot to do. Evening entertainment is in the nightclub with shows & competitions etc until 10pm then returns to a nightclub which is fairly quiet. Most people tended to sit out on the terrace but not a place for party animals as the bar there closes at 11pm sharp.
Weather was fantastic hitting mid 30's each day tho were told not usually that hot in Oct. Pool areas very nice, water park good fun. Plenty of sunbeds in both areas, beach very clean and the sea so warm, it was like taking a bath. All together well worth a visit for families tho not enough there to keep young people happy if wanting a lively holiday.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - October 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Delphine and Nick 26 and 25
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We went to Houda beach club in October for our first package holiday together and had a great time in Tunisia. It is a beautiful and interesting country with lots to see from poor towns with unfinished houses, tv satellite areals everywhere, tones of sand dust and occasional camels to more luxirious cities like Port el kantaoui, a gorgeous port with cafes, restaurants, all clean and perfect for tourist. We went on tours with Thomas cook to El Jem, the colesseum where gladiator was filmed, and many other good trips. Loved it. One thing though, the coaches are not very comfi and there is little leg space. We went in october so it was not too hot but I can imagine july must be horrible in these coaches.
Also we worked out that there was something called 'Tunisian time'. Just add half an hour to British time! They tend to run late a lot over there so be patient. When we arrived on our first day, it took a good 1h and a half of faffing to get to our hotel. (with multiple stops to every hotel in the country it felt!)
The hotel was clean and massive, beautiful pool and private beach. Definitly the best part of the hotel.
I thought food was good, lots of choice for all tastes so I don't undertand the other reviews about flies and funny tummies.. It was not excellent but good standards.
Our room wass very nice but I think we ere lucky as I have seen some which were not as nice. On our last day, we had to pay 30 dinars to keep it and were eventually moved to another one which was a real pain. Espacially as the room we were given was dirty and no light bulb. We complained and ended up trying 4 different rooms before satisfaction. We then got our 30 dinars back as the person at the reception agreed it was not good enough.
All in all, there were a few blips but we had a great time. The evening entertainment was shocking, too loud, boring and we could have done better ourselves. They do try hard though.
Good value for money, Port El Kantaoui seems nicer but I would recommend it.
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson - October 04
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Trudy Norman - Hedge End (39, 27,12)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel very clean, all staff members are friendly.
Entertainment is none exsistant except for the half an hour of kids disco which was good fun, but not alot for the adults.
Food ok just repepative.
Beach is well maintained, but the localman who looks after the sponges for the sun beds will charge you a couple of dinas to put them out for you.
Pedalos & canoes are free of charge, but you can also pay extra for the jet ski, banana boat & parachute.
Good place to go for an easy weeks holiday, as its only 2 and an half hours away and the weather was in the 40s.
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Houda Golf Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: september2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : nicola camden 31
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
just returned from 2 weeks at the houda the hotel itself was execellent the staff very nice and foo foo was brilliant with the kids.
the only thing we didnt like was the town centre souse. we found it very dirty and some of the locals were rude. the weather was great and the children loved the water slides the life guards were very good with the kids. we would go back to tunisai but to port el kantoie
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - SEPTEMBER 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : LORRAINE PRITCHARD (28,29,6,1)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
After saving extremely hard to go on our only holiday of the year, we were extremely disappointed with the houda hotel.
The entertainment was an absolute disgrace and we could of done better ourselves. The kids disco was the same music every night and my 6 year old daughter said it was boring. The food was always cold and needed heating every night, thank god they had a microwave. There was only chips for the children in and i had to put numerous complaints in to get hamburgers added to the menu.
We had to leave the hotel everyday which is in the middle of nowhere to find something interesting to do. Also whilst on holiday the maid stole money from the room, and claimed she thought it was a tip. When we arrived home numerous items were missing from our cases and my daughters bracelet.
Apart from this Tunisia is a marvellous place and there are beautiful sights to see. We are definately going back next year but to Port El Kantoui, which is a beautiful part of Tunisia. I would advise anyone to go there it is stunning.
Sousse is quite an experience with all the poor people and the haggling. But if u do go to the Houda dont let the member of staff stood in the lobby take u on a free tour of Sousse as it is just a scam, and he will leave u in a shop in the backstreets while they lock all the doors and try to sell u carpets. Definately go Tunisisa but not Skanes.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson - Aug 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Vikki Wright - Burton (40, 38, 34, 29, 24, 24, 11, 9)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I've just got back from a fantastic holiday that I really wasn't expecting. I read the reviews before we went and to be honest if we hadn't already booked it I don't think I would have gone. I'm not really sure what people expect when you go abroad especially a country as poor as Tunisia.
I personally thought the hotel was fantastic. It was clean, very airy and the staff from the maids to the waiters and the animation team were very friendly. The rooms are quite basic but you are only in them at night and they all have air conditioning that you can leave on in the day.
The food was fantastic. Even the children had no trouble finding something to eat and it wasn't chips every day!(and they didn't eat crisps either as somebody reported that's all was available for kids)The choice of food was unbelievable and we had a different meal every day. They do cater for different nationalities though so it's not all English but if you go with an open mind you will be fine. The the drinks were fine aswell and not watered down as some might say.
We did suffer from 'Tunisian tummy' but I think that was a combination of the oils they used in cooking and the heat and the alcohol rather than the quality of the food and we certainly didn't see many flies.
You must go on the camel trip with Fritz in the hotel lobby. It's a fantasic 3 hours. Parasailing and banana boat trip are also good fun and go on the zoo trip with the hotel and you can get to sit on an ostrich!!!! If you like a bit of culture, I recommend the tree cities tour where you go to El Jem and to two mosques. The only thing with that was it was a bit too hot.
The only thing we found to moan about was the lack of loo rolls. Even so, ask at the reception and they give you some there and then.
I must say, the animation team deserve a special mention. They work so hard to make your stay enjoyable and they put so much effort into the shows they put on in the evenings. Please make sure you give them a clap at the end-it makes all the difference. Also, I must mention Merher who we affectionately nicknamed 'Keyboard Dave'He sings songs every other night and also appriciates a cheer every now and then. Say "Hiya" to him from me please.
One bit of advice, if you have a late flight and you want to keep your room on, book it from home and it will guarentee it. We hoped to get one but the hotel was full so we had to make do with the showers in the Hammam(massage).
All in all we had a fantasic holiday and I certainly would recommend it to my friends.
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - August 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Stuart (41) Lynda (42) Michaela (15) Caitlin (12)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
booked up at the houda as a last minute deal. one week all inclusive sounded good, and reviews from this site were mainly very good.
we arrived at hotel at about midnight and our first impressions weren't good. we were led down dark unlit corridors to our room. the room was without a balcony (although we were told we would have a balcony)but at least the room was clean and spacious, yet very basic.
we got up the next morning to get a sunbed at about 8.30 but had no chance! we soon learnt that to get a bed you needed to have put your towels out before 7:00am. needless to say we set our alarm for 6:30am for the rest of our stay.
the pool area was very nice and the pool was large and clean (as in previous reports on this site care had to be taken when wet around the pool as some areas where tiled or marbled).
food was good, we all found something we could eat every day so it was fine. ranges of meats and fish, pasta and salads for dinner. lunch was pizza, bread, chips salad and a type of meat outside but more variety inside. Breakfast was continental.
drinks were good, with soft drinks (coke, sprite and fanta) and various juices. you could get 2 at a time, they were very slow though!
beach was the hotel's own so it was quiet with various watersports availible.
we didn't venture out of the hotel as we were only there for a week, but after reading reviews from this site and talking to people who had, sounds like we did'nt miss much.
the animation team (entertainment) worked extermly hard, and during the day did aerobics in the pool, ping-pong, volleyball, football and various other activites whereas at night they did a disco for the kids and then put on a 'caberet'. this was poor, and not very entertaining though we did feel sorry for them after the work they'd put in!
overall we got what we wanted out of the holiday which was a tan and a chance to relax so that was good!
we did feel that a week at this hotel was enough for us and can't say that we would return.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Skytours - July 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : HELEN DANIELS 38, 34, 34, 12, 11, 10, 10, 10, 6
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
On 20th March 2004 myself and two other single parents booked our annual holiday with our 6 children to Tunisia to travel in July. We original wanted to stay at the Iberostar Sahara Beach Hotel but were unable to be accommodated at this hotel. We subsequently booked the Hotel Houda Golf and Beach Resort due to the 3* rating and the advertised water park.
We travelled to our departure airport, Manchester International, on Wednesday 14th July 2004 where we were flying to Monastir, Tunisia at 20:00.
We had paid to pre-book our seats at a cost of £75.00 and were horrified to find out that our party had been split into 3 separate rows of 2 passengers and 1 row of 3 passengers. Bearing in mind there were 3 adults and 6 children (with an age range of 6-12). This meant that some of the children were unable to travel with their mother, and the children were upset at this. I discussed this at a considerable length with the check-in clerk, but was told our requests could not be accommodated. Consequently the majority of our flight was continually interrupted due to seat changing as the children were getting upset and this was the only way we the parents could pacify them and supervise them effectively.
We arrived at the hotel, and commenced our holiday. During the holiday the following events occurred:
Slides - on day 1 the children were allowed on the slides without a problem. On day 2, 2 of the children (aged 6 and 9) were not allowed on the slides. The lifeguards said that the children had to be aged 8 to go on the slides. We raised this with the receptionist, who said the children had to be aged 10. We then rang the Thompson's' help line, and the lady said initially that the children go could on the slides providing they were accompanied by adults. Then the lady said the children didn't need to be accompanied by adults, and she would clear this with the reception staff and the residential customer relations officer discussed this with the lifeguards. On day 3 there wasn't a problem with the slides, but on 4/5 further occasions there were problems with the lifeguards, which meant that 1 or another of the parents, had to discuss and sort out with the lifeguards.
On occasion the lifeguards were swearing at the children whilst they were waiting for their turn on the slides.
One day 8, 2 of the children were playing with a bat and ball in the pool (there were other guests also playing with bats and balls). The ball went into the path of one of the slides, and when one of the children went to collect the ball (no-one was coming down the slide at that point) a lifeguard dragged the child out of the pool, took him to the security guard at the main entrance of the complex who subsequently tried to throw the child out of the complex.
On 1 or 2 occasions, the maids removed some clothes out of 1 of our rooms, threw coins at the children, physically lifted up 1 child who was placed in the bathroom whilst she cleaned the room, had we repeatedly had to ask for towels
Sometimes were we allowed to take bottled water from the bar (bearing in mind the slide pool bar didn't open until 11am, so we had to walk to/from the main bar). On some occasions the bar staff wouldn't give us bottles of water and we had to carry 9 cups of water to the slide pool.
Restaurant - on day 1, although the information we were given on the coach transfer stated that we would be allocated a table for the duration of our stay - this didn't happen. As there were 9 people in our party, to ensure we had 1 table to eat our meals at, we had to go to the restaurant when it opened to ensure we could all sit together. The holiday rep said that tables weren't allocated any more, but spoke to the restaurant manager who ensured us that a table would be reserved for us. However, after 2 or 3 days, the table was no longer reserved. The restaurant rarely opened on time, which meant that we were stood around in reception for up to 30 minutes until it opened.
Obviously when holidaying abroad there are always flies. However in the restaurant there were electric fly killers, but these were not turned on. When we asked the waiting staff we were always told - they will be turned on tomorrow.
The restaurant staff were very slow clearing dirty plates away.
We had waiters asking us for cigarettes at the dining table.
Ice-cream availability - the children had to queue up for ice cream in the restaurant. If there was enough staff available the children helped themselves to ice cream until waiters told them off. And sometimes the children were told that ice cream wasn't available, even though there was obviously ice cream in the freezer.
The general quality of food in the restaurant was atrocious. On the griddles where the chefs were cooking fresh food, they were getting raw meat from the fridge and putting it on plates to transfer to the griddle where the commenced cooking. They then put the cooked meat on the same plate as the raw meat and transferred it to the serving dishes. If the cooked meat was still cooking they added raw meat to the griddle but the juices were dribbling all over the cooking meat.
When we discussed the quality of the food with the holiday rep, and I compared it to the food at the Sahara Beach Hotel, she said that the Houda was a government run hotel, and that Thompsons contributed approximately 50p per day for guests at the Sahara Beach and that might be why the food was better at the Sahara Beach.
We were allowed to eat at the Italian restaurant within the complex during our stay. The choice was obviously not Italian, and when 1 of our party received the turkey and cut into it - it was raw in the middle.
The drink dispensers that held soft drinks for the children, constantly released froth as opposed to liquid, and you had to wait for the froth to turn into liquid before receiving a full cup of pop.
Hotel customer relations officer - the first time we had trouble with the slide pool, we spoke with her, but on other occasions we asked to meet with her but she never turned up.
On the evening of day 12 we were sat in the piano bar and the children (not just ours) were playing with laser pens. A member of the reception staff came out to see us and said that there was a phone call for one of us. Bearing in mind that we are all single mothers with elderly parents, we imagined the worst. To our horror, when 1 parent went into reception to take the telephone call, the receptionist said that there wasn't a phone call at all, some of the guests were complaining about the use of laser pens by the children.
On the last day we arranged with reception to keep a room on. The first room that was actually allocated to us was disgusting, unclean and smelly. The reception staff said we could move to a different room, which was only marginally better. Had either of these rooms this been our room for the duration of the holiday I would have left the holiday and come home. We had to pay 30,000 dinars approximately £15.00 to keep a room on, and other English guests didn't have to pay anything to keep their existing room on.
On our last day, we were waiting in reception to be collected and transferred to the airport. The coach arrived, with no holiday rep to accompany us. We were not checked on to the coach, and after a while where the coach driver was trying to contact the holiday rep we commenced our journey back to the airport. This is the first holiday ever that I have been on where the holiday rep didn't accompany us to the airport.
If any of the above incidents had occurred on individual holidays we would not have raised them as a complaint. However all of the incidents occurred on one two-week annual holiday.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
July 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Liesl and Chris - Lancashire (38,31,11,9,7,4)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
After just returning form the Houda i've never been as happy to get back home. I would never return to that hotel again!
Although the hotel was spotless and was cleaned every day, it lacked in other parts. Going on an all inclusive holiday I would of expected to gain weight, instead we all lost weight, not only was the food disgusting with flys all over it, we all got tummy bugs as well.
The food was very bland and didn't taste of much. The queues where mental will all the foreign kids pushing to the front. We gave up eating in the end and just lived of bread and butter. My 11 year old daughter is diabetic and none of the bars or restaraunts had any diet drinks for her, I had to buy them from the shop everyday.
The shop is an absoulte rip off, nearly £2.50 for a large bag of crisps, my kids lived off them as the food was so bad. Even the pizza from the snack bar had flys all over it. When I asked the rep why there was no diet drinks, all she said was they don't cater for diabetics. The rep was hardly ever there and didn't even turn up for our transfer back to the airport so the driver refused to take us.
If you are going then just pray you don't need to see the doctor, it will cost you £17 just to see him, then they rip you off with the cost of the medication. Both my daughters got ear infecions ( which we think from the indoor pool) and altogether it cost nearly £100 for medication and the cost of the doctor. My son scratched his tummy and needed a plaster, they tried to charge £5 for it but we refused to pay it. The triage doctor doesn't charge but will ask you to go to the bar and get him drinks of vodka. One English fella was taking him vodkas all eveing one day so you can imagine the state he must of been in. Also when i took my daughter in he had a cigarette hanging out of his mouth!
The pools where great but you nust be up early to get a sunbed. Also take plent of high factor sun cream as when we were there it was in the 40's every day and was just too hot to sunbathe. The pool music that was played during the day was not for the childrens ears, as they played the unedited version of Frankie and Emenem but i don't think the Animation team understood what was being sang, but the english kids did!!! I must say Foo Foo was great with the kids, although he did teach them some naughty words. The brits are definitely the minority at the hotel, mostly French and German.
If you are thinking of going to the Houda then please think again, you can get a much better holiday for your money, we definatly won't be returning!
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Houda Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: Sky Tours - June 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Helen Waind - N. Yorkshire (41, 32, 6)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from a wonderful 2 weeks at the HOuda. I was a little worried before setting off as many people had turned their nose up when I said I'd booked to go to Tunisia. How wrong they were! The weather was fantastic for the first 11 days, and warm but dull for the last couple of days. Take tonnes of high factor cream or you will burn!
The hotel was bright and airy, and spotlessly clean. Our room looked over the main square bar area, and had a pool/sea view. The room wasnt huge, but it had everything you need, and I was only ever in there to sleep after all. The rooms are cleaned daily, and the maids amused us every day with a banket or towel sculpture. My 6 year old insisted she was first into the room each night just so she could find the sculpture, and to see how the maid had set her teddies on her bed.
The animation team are the hardest working people you will ever meet. They start at 9am, 7 days a week, and work till 2am when the disco closes, then, certain nights of the week they have to go to rehearsals for all the shows they put on! How they stay so upbeat and cheery on such little sleep I will never know! He is mentioned a lot in these reviews I know, but I HAVE to mention Fou Fou. He is the sweetest, funniest and kindest bloke you will ever meet. His patience is endless and you can see he genuinely loves "his kids". There is a nightly kids disco, and wait till you see the smiles on the little ones faces when you do the "Choo Choo" song! A special mention also for Amir and Ramsey, they broke my 6 year old daughters heart as she was so "in love" with them, and she cried all the way to the airport when we left them!
The animation team ask if you want to join in any activities, but dont hassle you if you say no. They love a joke and a chat and are friendly at all times. I saw no sleaziness as one woman mentioned in her review, and havent a bad word to say of any of them. The lifeguards are equally friendly, and at the slide pool they love to join in the fun on the slides. All the pools were spotlessly clan, and were "hoovered" daily. The tiles are slippery, so dont let your kids run on the with wet feet.
Skanes itself is nothing more than a scattering of hotels. If you want a trip to the shops head to Monastir, 10 minutes away, or Sousse (5 minutes) or Port el Kantoui (15 mins) We took taxis, which are dirt cheap, and never had any trouble with prices. Either agree a fixed price when you get in, or ask for the meter to be on, either way its cheap. You get harassed to death in the medinas, so be prepared to barter and be firm. If you dont like to barter, go to Sousse to the Soular center which is a huge fixed price store where no one bothers you.
I recommend the Camel Caravan with Fritz. A morning riding camels, horses and a donkey, followed by a snack and drinks before riding back again, £10 for adults and £5 for kids. You even get to feed a camel cactus from your mouth, if you're brave enough! Take a couple of dinars to tip the old lady making bread, she is dead funny. You can buy photos for 2 dinars (£1) each, but are not hassled to do so.
The beach is great, with plenty of beds. You can ride horses on the sands, but barter for a cheap price. Parachute behind a boat for a tenner, or go on the banana boat for £3.50 ... both highly recommended.
Tipping is not necessary at all in the hotel, though I did hand out my last notes to my favourites in the animation team on my last day. Service is second to none without having to bribe the staff. I did see one bloke tipping his waiter in the main diner so that he would bring drinks over, but as you can get your own anyway I thought that was unnecessary. Our waiter still asked if we wanted drinks anyway, with no tipping. There is a tip box in the diner, which is where I put all my change before I left.
The money is dead easy, roughly 2 dinars to a pound. You can change your money in the hotel, free of charge.
The entertainment manager "Mr Sabotage" is fantastic at his job. We thought he was an arabic Norman Wisdom. He knew us all by name by our second day, and never failed to come over for a chat and a joke.
The evening etertainmentwas pretty good, with a different show every night followed by a disco till 2am. The animation team were not afraid to make idiots of themselves to get a laugh, and seemed to thoroughly enjoy their performances. There is the obligatory karaoke night, and of course, a "Miss Houda" night, along with dance reviews and variety shows. You will soon be up joining in with the club dance, its so infectious!
The only thing I didnt like about my Houda holiday was the German holidaymakes. They strut around in their thongs (yuk) like they own the place. One member of staff said to me that he can tell who is English simply by our smiling faces, which is nice! I didnt realsie how true it is about the German arrogance and rudeness. Once you learn to laugh at them instead of getting cross with them, it too becomes a source of entertainment.
I could go on and on and on, as I loved every minute of my stay at Houda. I cannot recommend it enough for those with chidren. There may be a lack of a playground, but the animation team with their enthusiasm and liveliness more than make up for that. There is a games room, with pool tables and arcade type games if you want to spend a few dinars but to be honest we never used it. I will be going back to Tunisia, it is cheap, friendly, sunny, clean and full of fantastic people. Go and enjoy!
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
June 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Geoff Mick Rorie 45,39, 10
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked for one week on an all inclusive basis.I hope you find the review helpful.
Weather
Very good,temperature in high 70's, did tend to cloud over after 4pm. A pleasant breeze of the sea most of the day.
Room
We had a sea view, north facing, which meant it stayed cool. Clean and tidy though not very large. Tv has only one English channel (BBC world news)so don't bother with remote, tv can be operated manually.On day you leave you can remain in your room only if it is not booked. Another room can be booked for the day for 30 dinar.
Food
Generally good. Chicken, Beef,Pork dishes as well as pasta and plenty of salad. For breakfast the omlette was very good. some complaints that the food was repetitive, but remember it is only 3 star.You can use the a la carte(Tunisian and French)restaurants once each for each week of your stay, has to be pre-booked.Again the food was good, though service was slow.Snack bar at main pool during day, and in restaurant in evening, after 11 for pizza and chips.
Facilities
The pools are excellent. Our son lived in all three, indoor, outdoor and waterpark.The staff were extremely safety concious and kept all three well supervised. Sauna available, though jaccuzzi and massage extra.
Entertainment
Daytime was the usual mix of water polo, football, aerobics and volleyball.Tennis can be pre booked. The staff are energetic, friendly and not too pushy trying to make you take part. Fou Fou and the other entertainment staff work very hard, with some guests taking advantage of them.Kids club was a bit haphazard, but even so my son seemed to enjoy it.In the evening the shows were held in the disco. A bit hit and miss, put on by staff, and at times a little to adult for the kids.Some complaints about the music (rave) though that was going to addressed by the management. On the beach there is paragliding and banana boat. Again the staff safety conscious, wouldn't take me up when it was too windy. Was told the quadbiking was good value.
Golf
Played two rounds at the Flamingo. Cheaper and tougher than the Palm Links. If you do play take the mosquito cream, we were badly bitten on the first round. 35 dinars a round, 16 dinars for half set clubs and trolly. Six dinars taxi each way. Beer at the club expensive! I'm a 28 h'capper and found the course quite an experience.
Sousse
Interesting place, good shopping. Visit the large tourist store first to get an idea of prices, then go haggle in the medina.Good fun. 6-8 dinar for taxi.
Overall an excellent holiday.They need to tighten up on the entertainment, but this is a minor grumble.The hotel was only half/two thirds full during our time and the staff seemed to be at full stretch, so there may be difficulties such as queueing for food and drinks when at capacity. A good mixture of nationalities,mainly made up of couples. Very few teenagers, most kids seemed to be under 13.
Would go again.
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Houda Golf and Beach Club / Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
/Lunnpolly - June 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Malcolm Berry + family (52,52,15,14,12,12)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Everything was very clean Rooms were a good size and took 3 in each without any problems
NO problems with any of the services.
main pool a little cold for us but preferred the sea anyway
Other pool with many slides/flumes used by kids each day, so assume not so cold!
Beach easy and with many 'unbrellas' not crowded
Sea warm, perhaps a little boring as no waves and not deep!
Only a small landing area for the parascending so no-one (children) allowed up without 'monitor' one of the experienced guys t pull the ropes, so kids happy but not thrilled as would have preferred to go alone
It hurt my back just watching the kids in the rings behind the speed boat.
Only small critisism would be that the food was VERY neutral, nothing spicy at all
kids loved it and want to return
DEFINITELY good for families, not IMHO for adults alone
we were pleased that the 'all inclusive' did not attract the 'drink as much and as fast' crowd
expect we will return.
VG lunnpolly treatment all round
(no connection, just a punter)
enjoy..........
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Hotel Houda Beach Club - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson- September 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Josie Kerry- Birmingham (18, 18)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from houda beach and enjoyed it very much, the hotel was very clean and the rooms were small but comfortable, after all your only sleeping in there. The weather was fab all holiday with only one day where there was a few hours of storms. The food was ok, slight culture change but thats what you travel for. The staff were all really friendly and very very good looking!!!!The waiter sammi was really helpfull and worked really hard to make sure we had everything, he even put flowers on our table the day we were leaving. Fu Fu was really good with my little cousin, she was so sad to leave him!! a big hello to Ramsi and the life guard who i thinks name is deeno? your both gorgeous and if i was gonna go back there it would be to see you two!!! kept on stealing my walkmen and magazines but i didn't mind really!
went quadbiking which worked out at £18 but was well worth it, absolutely brilliant, probably the best day of the hol, words of warning though, make sure your breakes on your quad bike are working before you set off, and slap on the cream cus you will burn.
The beach was lovely, watersports were good, (not for the faint hearted) good fun though and very cheap. Thanks again to Ramsi for settin us up with that! love ya loads....:-)
Not a very wide range of alcohol or drinks to mix your spirits with, and beware of the ice, upset stomach! The club is quiet but the staff there are nice, hello to ramsi number 2 (animation) who tried so hard to get me up to dance! For young people the night life isnt brilliant, but i didn't venture out of the hotel.
Just beware of the food from the snack bar, often there are flies all over the pizza and breads so stick to the dining room!
Overall very good holiday, beautifull country, friendly people and clean hotel. Would definately go back for a cheap, friendly relaxing holiday.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Lowcostbeds.com - Sep 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Elena and Paul (28,35)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
My husband, myself and our 21 month-old son have just returned after 2 weeks in Liberty Hotel. All in all we had a good time, but could not wait to go home mostly because of the food. I am not a fussy eater, but even I became frustrated and by the end of week two could not look at it.
The hotel is situated literally 5 minutes from the airport. My advice is to get a taxi, do not buy a transfer. A taxi will cost you 10 dinars each way (about £4.00). There is nothing around the hotel, so if you want to go out you will have to get a taxi to either Sousse or Monastir (about 7-8 dinars each way).
It is close to the beach, you just have to walk through Neptunia hotel and you will be there in 3 minutes.
The hotel itself is very nice, impressive grand foyer, rooms are spacious and all have nice vews. Our room was cleaned every day, cleaning ladies work very hard and do a great job.
We arrived in the early hours of the morning and were greeted with a refreshing drink and a bottle of cold water for the room. A proper wooden cot was provided for our son, which was great.
We all enjoyed the swimming pool, it is beautiful and spacious, water is very clean, there is a shallow area for kids.
I read many reviews prior to going and was expecting a lot from the animation team. They are good, but I would not go as far as saying "fantastic". During the day you can expect activities such as water aerobics, archery, darts, salsa lessons and boules. Evening entartainment was as professional as shcoolkids' sketches, but we had a few laughs and the animation guys do try really hard, bless them !! :) Amongst their shows you may expect Cabaret night, Quiz night, a couple of Bingo nights, Grease show and something like "best couple" competition. Quiz night was brilliant, we had a great laugh! During our 2 weeks they invited professional entertainers only once, it was a night of Tunesian folklore which was really good. Oh, and of course Fakire show was pretty cool too !
Now, that's about it about Liberty's good side.... The worst thing about it was FOOD. There was not a single person there that didn't complain... While they had a good selection of salads and deserts, when it came to main dishes....Put it this way - I lived on salads for two weeks... Our toddler lived on boiled eggs and pasta, they DO NOT cater for kids (apart from free ice cream in the afternoon). Everything was bland, they did not even have ketchup (although we are not ketchup fans, it would have helped). Their idea of it was something I would call tomato juice in a pot . Didn't even taste of tomatos. Fish was impossible to eat - bony sceletons with skin. They never served pork, beef was a rare delicacy and served with inedible tasteless sauce. Chicken was always very dry and had more bones than meat on it. The problem is, they serve the same stuff every day! Dinner leftovers would be served for following breakfast and so on and so forth....
Don't take me wrong, you wouldn't go hungry, but most people had to live either on salads (like myself) or on bread and pasta - which were the only recognisable food there. I do appreciate it is hard to cater for different nationalities and tastes, but if the majority of guests are German, English and French - the common sense would suggest some recognisable european food, wouldn't it? Not in this hotel. On certain days we didn't even want to guess what meat they were serving - certainly nothing I'd ever seen ot tasted.
The other downside of this hotel - its bar stuff. Always grumpy, forever muttering something in arabic and often giving people nasty looks. Brrrr.... Although there was one bartender normally on morning shifts who was really pleasant and polite - look out for a tall guy with greyish hair. A tip for the ladies: send your men to get drinks. If you go to the bar regularly yourself some bartenders start thinking you are interested in them rather than in a cup of cappucino. One of the guys asked me directly if I wanted to have some fun with him.... Disgusting !
One other thing i disliked was the fact that some staff there (mostly Ali Babas and shop assistants) would not leave your kids alone, constantly trying to pick them up and playfully take their things away. Luckily, our son was alright with it, but some kids were getting rather upset, and even a firm "no" from the parents would not stop them.
All in all, we had a reasonably good holiday and met many great people, but 2 weeks was definitely too long. If you are planning on going there, go for 1 week. In this case you would probably cope with the food alright. It was only during the second week when food issues really started to get on our nerves.
To sum it up - the hotel offers a reasonable deal for what you pay for it. If you are not a fussy eater and are only after some sunshine and a nice swimming pool, then it is definitely for you !
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: APOLLO TRAVEL/JULY 06
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : DIANE ELLARD /PARTNER STEVE 36/30
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
When we arived at 4am we were welcomed by a very friendly member of reception who gave us our all inc cards ect and a bottle of cold water along with general info.The rooms are a fair size and reasonably clean with some good views if you get a sea view or pool view.We woke fairly early and looked forward to our first breakfast, which consisted of croisants, bread, yoghurt,fruit,very porridge like scrammbled eggs and some rather unusual cold rice salad, but first impressions were ok.
The pool was large to say the least and plenty of room(but beware of sitting on the grassed areas as there are many ants,and twice the size of ours back home!)the pool was very clean as was the indoor pool.The many flys in the main lobby area were annoying to say the least. the staff were all very friendly and cheerfull considering their very low pay.We found the location was a bit of a problem as there was hotel after hotel and only a taxi into Sousse or Monastir which costs around 7Dinar(£3.50) would you see the real Tunisia,which was full of shops and open markets where the locals don't leave you alone.
We took part in camel rides which was a real giggle,and quad biking which was fun to do,the hotel sales men from a company called ALI BABA! are the guys to see.Try the algae wrap,sauna, follwed by a fantastic massage but do this on the first day or so as it can help stop you getting burnt, highly recommended!.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: nouvelair - Jul 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Holly White - Cambridge 12
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
I thought that the holiday i went to in tunisia at the hotel liberty was absolutley amazing, i loved everything about it, the pool, the drinks, the kids club, the kids mini disco,and especially the staff.
The animation team were absolutley fantastic as they always came and talked to you and try and get you to joing in with things, such as darts, archery, mini discos, and everything else there was to do. There was only one thing i disliked, coming home i was very upset as i loved everybody there especially Nino who worked with the animation team. He was sweet kind and loved everybody whatever nationality they were, English, German, French, Tunisian, Dutch, Italian and all of them he could speak he was very clever well all of the staff were speaking all them different languages and remembering and understanding all of them. Nino was my favourite and always will be he was great with every single person whether they were babie, child, teenager, adult or elderly.
The animation and staff team were what made me never want to come home, they made my holiday and i want to go back now every single year and not a day less.I love nino and Kimo and Patrik and Gemma and Kim and Allo and all of the other animation team i love Nino especially though.As i only went for a week i wished id stayed longer. Every other night night me and my family would go into the amercian bar and dance and listen to the great music that Nino played. I danced with Nino one niht my best night every and then the next night i danced with Kimo that was great aswell as they are both such good dancers.
Ienjoyed watching the shows every night. Grease that was my favourite show and all of the Animation team who joined in were absolutley fabulous, they made the show great.I loved all the songs and the words and especially whe nino played the gutair and sang his song that was the best.I also loved the irish dancing and how Nino coped so well with his bad knee doing all the dancing and kicks.
Iloved the holiday and wish i could do it again.I hope all of the Animation team are there next year because they were absolutley brilliant and i love Nino i hope he is there especially next year he was my all time favourite.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Planet travel July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Mackie (45,44)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
A bit run down in parts but supposed to be getting a major renovation at the end of the season (06). Resonable but basic room, pool area clean, dinning area clean and food reasonable and on most days tasty. (most meat on the bone).
We enjoyed our stay but the "all inclusive" drinks was only 1/2 pint beer Bhouka (like vodka) coctails, and soft drinks. This let the hotel down as there was only one bar for "all inclusive" sometimes had to que for 15 minutes before the bar closed. We drank most of our duty free ! A small tip bottles of vodka and whisky are hard to buy so take your own!
Annimation team one of the best I have seen (and I've seen a few) superb!
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels, June 2006.
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Lynn Franks - Norwich. (62,68)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Liberty hotel is a welcoming sight in blue and white and has an imposing reception area. The swimming pool is extremely clean and a pleasure to swim in.Be aware that A/I is rather limited but what there is is of good quality. Loved the shandy and the Sangria and lemonade, also proper bottled coca cola and diet coke were available. Food was nice, plenty of strawberries and water melon and tastey cakes. Turkey and chicken and rice were served most meals. There is a huge wide screen tv where we watched the world cup matches. animation team were good, particularly Patrick, and we enjoyed games of french boules and table tennis.
all in all a very nice hotel and would definitely return there but for two weeks next time.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - May 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Carrie and Tim - Leicester (25, 25)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Liberty hotel is a hotel in the sticks, not a shop in sight.
The beach is very dirty near the hotel and as beach lovers this was a problem.
Food is a dissapointment, I usually like a variety but lentils and chickpeas for breakfast was too much.
staff were nice, rooms cleaned everyday.
Bar - no spirits in the all inclusive section just Bhuka.
If you have already booked to go to this hotel dont worry, just get out and about and youll be o.k.
VERY HOT WEATHER.....
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Medhotels - May 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Gigi - 39, 35
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Escape from Liberty: Hotel was clean and cleaning staff pleasant. Reception staff barely literate in English and the owner/manager does not understand the concept of customer service for paying guests. All inclusive was a waste of money. Three set times for meals and no other food available outside these times, pay extra to remove any food from the dining room. Between 11pm-12pm - you could get cold spaghetti and a dash of lukewarm pasta sauce. Or a cheese and salad roll. If you wanted chips you paid Dinar 3,500 a portion at the Pizzeria which should be open from the 1st of May all day but only opened in the evening and was according to management not part of the all inclusive deal although as negotiated by Medhotels it was meant to be part of the package deal for all inclusive guests from May - September. The rep could not resolve this or any other complaints and after 5 days the rep for this hotel resigned as she could not handle all the complaints - see list below.
If you are a fan of a variety of boiled, bland food sometimes coloured with tumeric to look interesting then this is the hotel for you. There is certainly a variety of meat which on occasion you cannot decide if it's boiled chicken, turkey or beef. You might even get served raw mince balls and be made to feel that you have no right to complain. For the most part cold French fries, deep fried fish tails, lentils, rice, spaghetti and pasta sauce and soup - definitely made from leftovers - is available at most meals. All bland but available. At all meals (including breakfast) you can have a choice of salad ingredients - tomato & onion, tomato, white or red cabbage, boiled potato (becomes next days potato soup), beetroot. Dessert was always good but always the same choice - sponge cake with artificial cream. Tea without milk is served at 4pm with hard, possibly stale unglazed fairy cakes - no variety offered at all, although for those who enjoy a continental breakfast there is a good variety of cakes for breakfast
Pool is clean and indoors pool is also clean. Turkish bath, manicure & pedicure and massage is available but do not expect a quality service. The facilities are rustic and in desperate need of an upgrade, it is definitely not a relaxing or pleasant experience. Manicures and pedicures are done in the "hair salon" with your head in the wash up bowl, a TV blaring and the owner cajoling and haggling with guests walking past as you try to relax. The equipment is tired and I'm not sure gets cleaned and sterilised regularly. After the Turkish bath you are given a threadbare gown and told to relax with a glass of sickly sweet lemonade. I cannot recommend using this facility.
Selection of drinks available was very poor; you could choose the virtually alcohol-free watery beer or coke and lemonade. Bar staff were completely rude and on all inclusive you were treated like you were demanding drinks you were not entitled too. Local wines and hard tack are disgusting. The bar shuts at 10.00pm and all inclusive drinks ends and you have to purchase your drinks from the American bar. In order to get your last all inclusive drink before the on-the-dot shutting time of 10pm expect to queue for a minimum of 20min. The only saving grace for this is that you don't have to watch the abysmal "cabaret" entertainment put on by the Animation team. To be fair, the Animation team are the only saving grace of this hotel although the entertainment they put on in the evenings is cringe worthy to say the least. Unfortunately, for the Animation team, they have to entertain people throughout the day with rundown facilities and broken equipment.
Last but not least is running the gauntlet of locals on your way to your "gourmet" meal 3 times a day - whether it's to buy jewellery, shoes (the genuine article), carpets etc. That's just the shop owner. There is of course his "cousin" who wants to take you to the Medina on tour, or quad biking (an interesting route of back roads through the local area) on tired bikes which breakdown. Haggling in your hotel is a new experience for me.
The thing that saved this holiday for me was meeting some brilliant people and of course the Sahara Hotel (10min walk away) which is the same rating as this hotel but offers a fabulous service for a fraction more than The Liberty. But drinks are cheaper and offers a variety of restaurants, 3 outside pools and 1 indoor, cheap food available all day and friendly helpful staff. The cabaret show put on by the Animation team at the Sahara was professional and extremely enjoyable. The facilities are fabulous with a lovely beach, jetskiing and parasailing. I wish I had stayed there.
Unresolved issues - advertised as available on Liberty Hotel and Medhotel websites
Pizzaria only open in evenings at an extra charge
Moorish Cafe, Barbecue restaurants & Fontaine bars closed.
No TV in TV lounge & no sound on BBC Prime channel in rooms - German, French & Arabic channels all fine
Negotiated terms of AI changed at whim by management. AI ends at 10pm
No mini-Golf, volley ball, water polo and other facilities rundown.
No minibar/fridges in rooms, no hairdryer.
Nightclub closes at 12pm or earlier dependant on managements' mood.
I do not recommend this hotel.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : Jim Duncan , Mike Kerr & wives (44 , 43 , 40 , 40)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Arrived at hotel and was impressed at reception area .
We had booked for 2 rooms and yet tried to say we had booked only 1 family room ! had to stay in the family room for first night but moved to 2 seperate rooms next day which were excellent , cleaaned every day and got clean towels every day so no problems there . Food was crap !!! none of us are fussy eaters but everyone has a limit !! We were all inclusive but only got either beer , wine or cocktails which only had a little dash of alcohol in . We tried the restaurant in the hotel complex and even paying for the food still didnt get us anything better. !!! We all took soup (water) as starters . 2 of us had steak which was mostly fat , 1 had carbonara which was dry spaghetti with a little chopped ham and grated cheese sprinkled over it , 1 had a turkey steak which didnt seem too bad but the chips were just a mush !!!
The hotel is in the middle of nowhere and you have to get a taxi to go wherever you want to go .
ONLY GO HERE IF YOU WANT TO SIT BY THE POOL ALL DAY AND LOOSE WEIGHT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WE DEFINATELY WONT BE BACK HERE !!!!!!!
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: med hotels.com - 2005
Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : paula kinnett. worthing 37,33,4
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
hotle liberty is only 4 dinars from the airport so if your tour operator charges more get a taxi!! you cant take money out of the country or bring any in so a tip...if u get an evening flight get the currency at the airport as you may have to wait till the following day if your hotel bureau de change is shut!! Hotel liberty bureau de change opens and shuts when they feel like it!!! dont go by the times on the board.
we had read the reviews on the hotel liberty after booking as was there nervous about going as the reviews were quite bad!!
the hotel its self is nice. with a heated in door pool and large out door pool. we went in feb this yr and the weather was warm. the room service was great. clean bedding towels every day. The guys in the shops go hassle you but thats only on the first day, they then leave you alone and chat generally.prices are very expensive as said in earlier reviews.
The animation team are fantastic!! our destiny whom is 4 had a great time with the guys. thanks joel and elmann!!
they really do make the kids hoilday. There are french and germans staying at the hotel as well. They tended to be near retirement age and not very tolerant of the english children but it didnt spoil our holiday as we meet some great new friends!!!
Highly recommend the sahara 2 day tour cost about 58.00 pound per person, we took or 4 yr old and wow what an amazing country. it is africa remember, people are poor but its an unforgettable experience. The people are so friendly. in the medina remember the golden rule at least half what the price is straight away. we had trainers marked for 80 dinar down to 20!!! all the men are friendly with the children, this our little girl found great as it made her feel really special!!dont worry!!
Now the down side.....yes its the food. its a 3 star, but african remember. the food my partner found ok but he will try and eat anything! they cut there meat up as and when ,not like here in the uk where we have certain portions. so you never know what bit your getting! saying that there is enough choice to make up a meal unless you are ultra fussy. We meet a couple whom stayed in a 5 star in Mahida and complained about the food so a star rating does not mean better food.. Be warned
also they did not cater for the childrens tastes. pomme frits some times. They tended to recycle the food. what was left from the previous sitting they put out at the next one!! rica and cakes put out for breakfast along with boiled eggs ,i found odd!! You also had to share the table, we did not mind at all but i guess if you are of that nature it may not be to your style!!
Free bar does stop at 10.00 remember so get em in before!!
The pizzaria only tends to do fish based pizzas!!
The beach was littered with alot of rubbish on the high tide mark but again its not england!! saying that there was ample clean dunes and beach when the tide was lower that was clean.
Animal lovers beware..plenty of stray cats for you to feed!!!
warning about medical emergencies. If you need to go to hospital go to the one in sousse they are better at dealing with holiday makers and take credit cards the smaller one in Monastir does not> The hotel charged 60 dinar just for a DR to come out so make sure you have travel insurance!!!!
all in all it was a great holiday though we would not return to skanes. skanes is in between sousse and monistar and its about 6 dinars to each medina...
one last thing our rep Olga was fantastic..
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - 2004 / 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Mark jenkins -Stourbridge 32
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Having read comments before I traveled i had mixed feelings about going to Skanes and the Liberty hotel.
Overall I'm glad I went ahead with the trip.
First impressions are ok it is only 3 star and after all it is the north Africa their version of a three star is very different to European standards.
The food was ok its typically French influenced dishes not too much choice but there was always just enough choice to make a meal up.
The inclusive drinks are limited but once again it is a cheap holiday so you shouldn't expect the same service as Dominican Rep, Mexico, or Spain.
Skanes has nothing to offer however for about £3.00 UKP 5-6 TND (Tunisian Dinars) you can get a taxi to either Monistir or Sousse. Both have very good markets. In Monistir the sales men are a little more aggressive as its a smaller town and there are less shoppers.
Overall the hotel and staff were great! Especially the Animation team.
One word of warning! Watch out in the indoor market, a guy tried to sell a carpet worth maximum £10.00 for £500 plus my watch and pestered us all holiday. Go to the markets you will get pestered but you will get great deals on bags and trainers for next to nothing.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: med hotels nov 2004
Opinion submitted in Dec 2004 by : dawn, joe & kurt 35,27,13
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
hotel itself was quite nice, very nice welcome, but it all went down hill after that.
All inclusive bar consisted of 2 spirits not very nice, 1 very watery beer, that bad my son didn't even get tipsy, 2 washing up flavoured soft drinks, vinegar like wine and vitually non alchoholic cocktails,the bar closed at 10pm so that was it for the night off to bed, all the other guest had long since gone to bed as there was an average age of about 70, but we heard them gettin up about 5am doors slamming talking very loud no consideration for other guests. food even worse smelt awfull didn't even no what we were eating, just stuck on a table next to strangers. most of staff very rude and spoke little english, this hotel catered for every nationality but english, we were made 2 feel like outcasts.The other guest were horid to us. non of the snack bars or other bars were included in the all inclusive, so we paid for more poor quality food. we even found ourselfs sneaking into other hotels to buy food we were so hungry.
resort in middle of nowhere nothing to do but go on the beach, that was fithy a cross between a building site and a rubish tip, then the camel and horse doo doo,not very nice. so if this sounds like your kind of holiday then book it but we certainly would not recomend it we have never been so glad to cum home some days i was in tears it was so bad, what a waste of money.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- November 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Colin Roberts - Kingston upon Hull (38,33)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I was a bit nervous about this hotel after reading some reviews of the place. But, upon arrival, those fears were soon dismissed.
We arrived just after 2:00 pm and were greeted in a warm and friendly manner by the reception staff. A complimentary drink was bought whole we filled out the registration form, a porter sorted out our luggage and we were then informed that lunch was still available till 2.30. All of this without any request from us. The hotel reception is lovely as well, all marble floors and columns with sunken seating areas for relaxing in.
We also went all-inclusive and were again apprehensive because of the reviews. However we had no problems at the bar, the cocktails, although light on the local spirit, were refreshing, the beer was like our lager, and, once you get friendly with the staff boukha and coke or lemonade can be quite potent lol. The meals were also varied, though we were looking forward to tasting some Tunisian style food and it was mainly geared towards the French hotel residents, Though we did go to the pizzeria attached to the hotel and had two lovely meals, complete with a bottle of wine for around £12.00 each time.
The staff couldn't be more helpful, always going around tidying up empty glasses, very friendly and chatty to the guests. The maitre'd of the restaurant showed us our table and explained that though he didn't speak much English, he understood plenty and if there were any problems he would sort them immediately. There is also a chap who works in the hotel under the title of Mr. Massage, a nicer person you couldn't wish to meet, and not pushy either. I would recommend the full sauna and massage that he offers, 1 1/2 hours of relaxation for £20.00
The rooms were basic, but everything was clean and tidy, linen changed every day. The hotel itself could do with a touch of paint on the outside, though I did see them starting that at the end of my holiday.
Entertainment wise there wasn't a lot going on, but it was November and quiet anyway. We wanted a relaxing holiday and got one. The entertainment team does try to motivate people, but there were a lot of older French people there so again it was geared to them. The pool looked very inviting but it was a tad cold for me
The only downside to the hotel was the shop, located in the lobby. The guy that runs it is very pushy and has inflated prices, even when you barter him down. Save buying things for your trip to Sousse or Monastir, you'll get it much cheaper
I can definitely recommend this hotel for anybody wanting to travel to Tunisia
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Sun Star Leisure - Oct 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Patricia Naylor - Peterborough (54)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have just returned from what was a brilliant 2 wks of chilling by the pool in wonderful sunshine..what more could you ask for.As a lone female traveller and having visited Tunisia 3 times previously to be fair I knew what to expect, however this hotel exceeded my expectations.Although it could do with a little refreshing i.e paintwork etc the staff expecially in the dining room were brilliant. I was very well looked after and not harrassed at all. My room although a little basic was cleaned and linen changed daily.
If I had any so called complaints it would be towards the other guests and not the hotel..I was 1 of 5 English guests at anyone time and unfortunately most of the other guest were rude and demanding ..perhaps thats why the English guests were looked after so well at least we had the courtesy to say please and thankyou.
A little tip here and there definately helps and is well worth it.
The beach is just across the road but unfortunately there is very little else to do, I went on a days boat trip to top up the tan but did not book at the hotel, I went into Sousse and haggled on the water front and got it half price.Don't be frightened to go into the shopping area in Sousse it is a good experience as long as you stay with your party and not wonder off on your own.
All in all a brill time, must of been as myself and family are booked to go back on 26th Dec and looking forward to it.
1 last piece of advice, if you are going to treat yourself don't buy from the hotel shop as it is well over priced.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: med hotels - 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Keith - Bristol 45, 42,16
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Very disappointed with Skanes. It was dirty had broken pavements and there is absolutely nothing to do there. The beach was dirty and the sea didn't resemble the Med as I know it. Liberty hotel is looking tired and in need of a facelift.
Although all inclusive, the inclusive bar closes at 10pm on the dot. The bar staff treat you as if they are doing you a favour by serving you drinks and are positively rude. The inclusive drinks include Bukha, lager, wine, cocktails made with bukha and another local spirit(name eludes me) and soft drinks, nothing else. The only way to get a proper drink i.e. gin, vodka,whisky etc is to pay for it in the American bar.
The food was also a disappointment all very bland and catered mostly for the French that were the majority of the guests at this hotel, they also had better restaurant service and were provided with bottles of wine with their meals for some unknown reason. There were also flies in the restaurant all of the time. The staff in the restaurant and the rest of the hotel were friendly and helpful although they never missed an opportunity to try and sell you something.
The animation team worked hard to keep you entertained and were a good group. The hotel accomodation was reasonable and what you would expect of a 3 star hotel but no more. The pool area was nice however I would not recommend this resort or hotel to anyone.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: med holidays - 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : dawn joe & kurt 35, 27& 13
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
On first arriving at the hotel liberty we thought this looked quite nice, the room was clean although a bit shabby. We had just missed lunch, and was rather hungry, as we had booked all inclusive we thought that we could get a snack oh no we had to wait till dinner. so we thought we might as well have a drink so we set off to the bar only to find a very poor selection of drinks, as my son is only 13 i ordered him an orange juice to get the reply off him it tastes like washing up liquid and so did all the other drinks. Then we spotted another bar as we walked in we thought this looks more promising only to be told that we would have to pay. infact most of the things we had to pay for the only things that were included was the understocked bar, restaurant and gym if thats what you could call it.
Then was our next treat the restarant we got the same old slop every day did not no what any of it was as the labels wern't english some of it smelt that vile that our eyes were watering and ws nearly sick, so we thought we would have some pizza from the pizza bar on site that wern't free either and we ended up paying for more rubish but we ate it because we were so hungry.
there was plenty of sunbeds but a lack of matresses to put on them, so we headed off to the beach which we was told ws lovely it's was disgusting rubish every where. the hotel was full of french o.a.p's who were very rude to the englsh minority, they treat us like we had no right to be there most of the staf was very rude too.
We booked this holiday expecting all inclusive and all we got was rubish fter the second day all we wanted to do is come home, normally you just want to stay on your holiday for ever, all we can say it is a good job we took a little spending money so we could buy the poor food from the pizza place even though it wasn't good it was more edible than the retaurant as there was no were else to go for miles. but we did meets some lovely english people that kept us sane.
so it's up to you try it if you wan but we would not recomened it.
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - 2004
Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Chas & Margaret - Gosport (44 & 52)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Mainly catered for the very mature French holidaymakers who don't que for anything. Hotel Staff Spoke French & German but very little English which when you have a complaint is convienent.
Entertainment basic. very little to do at Night.
very quiet resort. Good if you wish to stay in Hotel at Nights and play cards! very poor if you wish to venture out.
Staff varied from freindly to Very poor service especially the bar staff.
But at least they were rude to everyone.
Very basic AI compared to any other in Med for the same price.
I would say the hotel was not 3*+ accommodation although communal areas and rooms were clean and tidy, carpets in hallway badly stained.
overall a fair holiday due to the crowd we made friends with probably 2 star accommodation with food not much better.
Oh the flys are terrible!!!!!!!!!
Once you step out of the hotel complex the country of Tunisia is filthy and YOU will be hasseled everywhere you go from taxis, beachs, footpaths and shops at times this is very aggresive and not friendly .
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Nikki Williams
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel was ok not the best but just ok.It was clean tidy a basic 3* hotel really not as bad has we had been lead to belive on various websites. Its true there were no english people to be seen only one family we found in the week we stayed there.
The food was good a great choice something differnt every night. The waiters consantliy cleaning up.
The pool was also good clean and tidy but beware of your feet because within the small inset stones are tiny pieces of glass that will cut your feet.
Accomodation: We had sea view all i can say that it was ok. Again cleaned every day tidy no noise at night we were happy.
To some up i would not recommend people to go to this hotel because it was just average nothing special but if you have already booked dont woory as long has you like to keep you self to your self all week with no other english persons to talk to you will be fine.One Last thing Get friendly with the bar staff you know what i mean in a jokey way they will serve you larger spirted drinks!!
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Hotel Liberty - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : helen jones - powys (46)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We were 11 in the holiday party ageing between 3 years and 50 years. We pulled up outside the hotel and thought what had the tunisian people let themselves in for with our tribe descending on them.
As I had read comments on the internet about this hotel, and they hadn't been too kind I was a little aprehensive. Well the hotel was clean the weather was great and the people couldn't do enough for you. One of our party was having a birthday, they made a cake and decorated the table with flowers.
As a group and indervidually I would have no hesitation in returning to Tunisia and the Hotel Liberty.
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Hotel Miramar Thalassa - Skanes
Operator and Date: Expedia December 2006
Opinion submitted in January 2007 by : A FD -68-63-32-34-1
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
In reference to my last Hotel booking with Expedia.co.uk 25/12/2006 to 08/01/2007 in Monastir ,Miramar Thalassa,
Unfortunately it was disaster from the start, I came to reception ,Found receptionist, wanted to check in ? First was that my booking only for one person ! she was absolutely confident of that ? she asked me to contact expedia (impossible) ? We were just arriving from a long drive to have that in our face .
I went on-line and showed her the booking details ? suddenly everything OK ,after 2 hours standstill ?!
Now she courteously read the booking from their stupid computer,they have me as one single person and German national etc etc .
We requested sea view which in this time of the year would be offered as courtesy in most Tunisian hotels free of charge ? She told us that will cost 7 DN per night per person ?
We were going to pay , suddenly she changed her mind and given it for free ?!!!
As I was sure there was some nasty attitude flying around,I insisted to see Expedia booking ? as I was sure that all that mess was theirs ?
Head of reception came and showed up ? after I heard talking on the phone to the person that changed the booking that way ? she was asking why he changed it ? etc .I only hear what she was saying .
He tried to convince me first that it is Expedia mistake or it is /German partner
I insisted more to see it ? he spend about one hour acting and pretending to look for it ? how well organised is that ?
In the end he admitted that was their mistake and told me that it was his personnel mistake (proud) ? I was hearing his receptionist talking to the right person ? he really lying ? I was very Angry at that point .
You cant really enjoy hotel like that ? I really felt uncomfortable ,my wife and my son were still waiting in the reception, what on earth going on ? supposed to be easy to get the key and enjoy our Holiday .
Why they changed the booking ? it can not be a mistake ? They could have double check the fax ? They could checked the booking when I told them that is for 2 Adults + Child ? instead they insisted to harass us .
This supposed to be professional head of reception told me that am not used to Hotels ? well actually true , not used to hotels like his anyway .
I was trapped there ? long stay booked , no escape and the worst thing is that I had my in laws to book on the same crp hotel for a week .
We had every one staring at us for the whole stay, specially their ridicules Restaurant staff ? waiter for every table ? what they are doing ? laughing at the customers in Tunisian dialect ? who is going to get more tips etc /
My wife,my son and her parent all of them caught cold because of the heating blower they have in presumed to be 5 star rated luxurious Hotel .
Our Booking included baby which any hotel in world would put a baby cot in the room instead we gone through all the above and when we asked for it the next night the same receptionist backed by her clever manager decided to charge us for it again 7 Dn /per night . We had it the second day and they did not charge us when we checked out ? ?I can't understand the logic behind that .
On the new year eve without alerting any customer they have decided to do one "Gala Dinner " for all hotel customers and some locals from 20:00 untill midnight ? They did not at least inform them first ?
They Show was mixture of routine acts by the Hotels animations and some unheard of folklore band .the problem not there is that most of people did not prepare for this long dinner ? result most of them elderly and children gone to bed by second half of their starter at 10 O'clock .they did not know so they have eatien nothing apart from this starter .
This was the case of my cousin family and my wife parents .
I could not wait for my in-laws to fly home so I can leave this nightmare Hotel where always there is a catch ?
We deserted it on the 03/01/2006 and we went to my family home .
To be honest there were few staff who kept the standard fine both in reception one lady and in Restaurant one waiter and one supervisor who prepared my wife dinner for me to take it to the room as she took my sleeping son on the notorious new year eve.
The rooms were fantastic presumably that is why expedia has it as 5 star hotel in their database of course apart from the crp heating system.
I Could have enjoyed extra cash rather than spending it unnecessary in some Crp staffed hotel .
I am really satisfied with Expedia customer services every time I contacted them, they were helpful and efficients .
I wish that I could recover from them those days we did not stay there, as they don't deserve it,
I am Tunisian myself and I was in hotel business before and am really ashamed of this Hotel ,I never heard or seen any staff lower standard than that.
now I leave it for your judgement
AFD
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Hotel Miramar Club - Thalassa 4*- Skanes
Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My T ravel June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Dyson
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I had recently got engaged, and as a present booked a holiday for my fiance and myself, neither of us had been to Tunisia before so thought it would be a nice change.
I feel like I could write a book about this place, but I will keep it brief. Holidays makers deserve to know what they are letting themselves in for as probably like me they work hard all year and save up to go away. This place was without doubt the worst place that I or my fiance have ever set foot.
You were practically gaurenteed to see rats every day around the complex both inside and out.
Anyone wanting to loose some weight would love this palce as the food is uneadable
the place is filthy, other than the communal areas the hotel is the absoloute pits. You will never meet such rude unfriendly people in all of your life they would charge you to breathe if they could find a way. The entertainment would probably been awful if there would have been any, there isn't a bar or resturant or even a shop for miles around. The is no escape what so ever.
I would not go back there or anywhere in Tunisia for all the money in the world.
I would strongly reccomend that you do not go here, even if you were unlucky enough to win a free holiday to this resort - do not go.
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Hotel Miramar Club - Thalassa 4*- Skanes
Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - June 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Paul and Ali - Newcastle (27, 23)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
My boyfriend and I arrived home on Monday and can honestly say we had a great time. I'm not sure if I would go back soon, but maybe in a few years.
The hotel was fantastic. There are three pools, a few restaurants, and the rooms are big enough. Someone told us the hotel was revamped about 6 years ago and most of the rooms are two rooms knocked into one. Our room was overlooking the sea and we only had to walk about 5 meters from our balcany to the sea - it was lovely listening to the waves when you're going to sleep. We didn't find anywhere that sold alcohol but a couple we met found somewhere is Sousse where you could buy the large bottles of Stella that you pay 5 dinar for in the hotel for 1 dinar each.
We got caught out on our first morning by one of the locals who dressed us in head scaves, necklaces etc and wouldn't take them back, so don't take anything off them. We didn't enjoy Sousse on our first visit as you couldn't look in any of the shops without being pestered and we ended up paying for things we didn't want just to get out. There was a part of three in our hotel - daughter (about 6 yr old) her mother and grandmother and they got locked in a carpet shop for two hours and forced to hand over £1,000 for a carpet or they couldn't get out! There are tourist police you get report being ripped off to and they got £500 back for them. So be careful and just try to have your wits about you. We did go back to sousse on our last day (sunday) and they have a good market on. Try and look for the stores with fixed prices and they let you look around without bugging you.
All in all, had a great time, weather was fantastic. Keep your eye out for a guy called Charlie who works separate to the hotel, but sits in the lobby - he arranges camel trips where you ride through the olive groves, watch what a traditional Tunisian wedding is like etc for about £13 each, you leave at 10am and back for about 1pm. He also arranged for us to go on quad bikes for about £15 each. My boyfriend liked it but i crashed after about 10 seconds.
Enjoy.
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Neptunia Beach Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: HAYES June 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : linda hunter (43,40,18.16):
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Been to tunisia many times and have stayed at all the resorts the resort is ideally what i personally like a very quiet and relaxed holiday we stayed at the liberty across the road and we used the neptunia to exchange money first impression was nice hotel we liked the fact that it was right on the beach.We booked up for a week staff were nice i personally had 2 problems one was the food the other was my sons shower in their room i am i would say used to tunisian food but at the neptunia it was the worst you were going down to breakfast and some of the food from the night before was on the breakfast choice and again at lunch they mostly catered for french and werent interested in any other nationality that arrived at the hotel.
The rooms were very basic we complained about the shower in my sons room as soon as we arrived and again to the rep and also complained about food her reply was oh well you get what you pay for but i also informed her that i paid more for Neptunia than i had previously paid for a 4*all inclusive the day before we left we had a new rep spoke to her and she was staight over to complain about shower it didnt help us any but it may help any more unfortunate guests staying there all i can say is its just as well we had 2 rooms or else my 2 sons would have had to have bodywashes for a week.
The resort wont meet everybodys standards its really down to what you expect from it there are no shops no resturaunts but taxis are very cheap about 8 diners to sousse which was about £3.50.I hope this doesnt put anyone off because Tunisia is a lovely place its a shame the Neptunia didnt have more respect for return travellers.
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Neptunia Beach Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: medhotels - 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : David Kendall - Grantham ( 41,38,7,4,2)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel Neptunia is located in a side road off a dual carriageway motorway so there is no where to go to or walk to ... you could walk a bit on the beach but if you turn left you come to the local power station!
The hotel is full of germans and french and is run to suit them... so if u r english you are going to feel out of it.. all menus sporting safety instructions, entertainment is in french...
The bar staff would be half way through serving me my round of drinks and a german would come up to the bar and the barman would stop serving me and serve the german... they do this so blatently
Other examples were a frenchman stood with his son to do archery so the next day i took my son who is the same age and asked if i could do the same and was told no... also the french plugged their portable dvd player into the TV but the next night we asked if we could play our film and was told no...
All the food is french ... we are talking fish with heads and tails on , rabbit and meat that was mainly bone...nothing for the kids... if you go all inclusive you will find there is hardly anything to drink!
There was a storm and the tide washed up tonnes and tonnes of seaweed... it was at least 6 meters into the sea and well up to your knees and there were yellow jelly fish in there so you couldnt get anywhere near the sea... this was left for 3 days until the stench became too bad at which point they got a jcb digger in to clear 70% of it... the rest washed away a day later.. but the staff told me it happens every year... the sand has grey bits in to like polution..maybe from the power plant?
The towns are nearby and you will need a taxi to get there... if you buy always get at LEAST 70% off what they ask you...handbags go for 15 dinar max although they will ask you 80 to start with..
Overall id say give this one a miss... the staff of the hotel dont want you there ...so dont waste your money
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Neptunia Beach Hotel - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - Sept 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Edinburgh - Scotland
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
What can you say about this resort, if that's the word for it.
It reminded me us the Gaza strip...also smelly, nothing to do and nowhere to go outwith the hotel.
Just back from a week half board and glad we weren't all inclusive as most other guests were. I would have cried if I had to eat an extra meal a day there - it was the most bland food I have ever had the misfortune to eat.
Same slodge nearly every night, and what wasn't eaten was made into a breakfast dish. Most things were floating in a watery substance and had zero taste. Thankfully there was a bolognaise sauce which you could cover the food with to give it flavour. The bread was always hard and stale.
The hotel itself was ok - basic rooms but bearing in mind how poor the country is, didn't expect anything too luxurious.
The outside pool area was what made the holiday good - it's a lovely pool with plenty room round it.
There was the obvious 'towels out at dawn' situation but still left enough beds for everyone else.
We had 3 days of sun out of a week so this didn't help - not much to do other than go to Monastir or Sousse, but if it's raining like it did when we were there, this isn't really an option.
After 2 nights of dinner in the hotel we ventured to another hotel but were refused entry by the guards at the gate as were weren't residents.
The saving grace was the hotel pizzeria which afforded us 2 nights of tasty food.
The wine is vinegry and the beer weak - don't expect anything grand in this respect!!
The animation team did a kids show type thing every night - they played every Black Lace song ever made while the kids sang/danced along. They seemed to enjoy it but to endure Black Lace every night was a killer for us!!
We'd never go back to Tunisia based on our experience here.
I'm sure there are lovely areas but I won't be going back to find them.
If you like being holed-up in one place for an entire week/fortnight without being able to go for walks at night or eat out in nearby restaurants etc, this is the place for you.
If however, you like to see a bit of the local culture without having to take a long dodgy bus journey in order to do this every night, DON'T GO HERE.
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Occidental Grand Monastir - Skanes
Operator and Date: panorama - June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : A. Smalley - Lancashire (42, 43)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from the Occidental Grand - Skanes (June 07). Worthwhile making your own way to hotel as it is directly across from airport, saves waiting 45 minutes for transfer!!! First impressions of the hotel when we entered was very impressive. Gentleman on reception was very welcoming. Room was very clean and adequate with a queen bed! Balcony overlooked the pool. You could see the sea from your room. Food was very good. There was a good choice at dinner time, yet lunch time sometimes was a little disappointing. The beach cafe was very good if you ordered food to be cooked in front of you. The local beer was bearable and the cocktails were very nice. Bar staff in main bar were fantastic, they were very friendly and worked from early in the morning until the end of the night (2.00am).
The animation team were good with the kids they did ask everyone to get involved in activities, sometimes abit annoying if you were after a quiet relax around the pool, we spent most days on the beach, no hassle!!! THE animation team also put on the shows for the evening entertainment. This am afraid to say was extremely disappointing, not sure what to make of it, felt abit surreal that we were actual sat watching it!!! Wasn't much else on in the evening. The disco was very disappointing. Wasn't many people there when we arrived, mainly from foreign countries i.e.Germany, France, Austria etc., Wouldn't recommend teenagers to go at this time of year. The night time would be realy boring for them. Airport noise did not bother us at all. Beware of little Tunisian man who will offer you a trip to Sousse, not good idea to go with him!! The guys promoting the Quad bike trip were really annoying, asked us every day!! Went for a massage, was very very relaxing and would reccomemd it.
Beach lovely, sea very warm, 2 minutes walk from front of hotel. Sun beds are plentiful, They had just opened a play pool for kiddies with a big snake and waterfall was very good, also waterslides were being finalised. Service 10/10, Food 7/10, location 8/10, Hotel comfort 10/10. Was a very relaxing holiday, just went for 1 week which was enough for us. Weather was very hot. The staff all work extremely long hours and are being monitored constantly by management, sometimes found this was a little unfair on the staff, as they worked non stop, deco was very nice.
Would not go back, prefer resort where you can go out and visit bars and clubs.
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Occidental Grand Monastir - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - Sept 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : 38,
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed at this hotel for 1 week from 16th September 06. I would recommend not waiting for your coach to transfer you as you are literally "over the road" from the Airport. Noise from aircraft flying over is bearable through the day but extremely noisy at night. This hotel is listed as a 4* - but does not meet this rating at all.
First impressions on entering the hotel's grand entrance are good, but only deteriorate once you have checked in. The rooms are basic and kept clean, however the common areas i.e. corridors etc are in desperate need of an overhaul. The pool area is nice and the animation team work very hard and are genuinely nice and enthusiastic. However this can become a little annoying if you are wanting to chill out and relax as you are constantly prompted to join in whatever is going on i.e. aqua gym, yoga etc - one week was definitely enough for me. The food was a bit disappointing and you have to come to terms with the amount of flies hovering over prepared food especially in the restaurant by the beach.
I would not recommend going to this hotel in low season as there were never more than 3 people in the disco - that includes myself and my friend!! The evening entertainment is not brilliant, silly games etc is not to everyones taste and the constant requirement to be told to "keep clapping" can become annoying. We made the best of it and thankfully the weather was fab - but i wont be going there again. I must repeat though that the annimation team and all the staff were very friendly and helpful and this made it more bearable.
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Hotel Primasol Golden Beach - Skanes
Operator and Date: June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Amy 19 and Nick 23
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
When we first arrived at this hotel our impressions were good. although it was only a short distance from the airport...short meaning 2 minute drive ina ataxi and beware the people rip you off so negotitate a price before gettin in it was all good...the bell boy took our bags the reception staff greeted us and we recieved a welcome drink.when we finally was shown to our room after over an hour of waiting it was right on the front of the hotel it was noisy because the hotel was situated at the bottom of the blinkin runway and a huge motorway outside the hotel so we gave it a shot for 1 night but had to sleep with the door open as our air con was broke! went down to reception and asked if someone could fix it after a very hot night in bed and they sent someone up but they said it was broke and said they would be back in ten mins but after 2 hours no one came. i then went down to reception their attitude was awful and told me they had no spare room to give me i didn't give in a eventually they gave me another much nicer room which over looked the pool....and working air con.
the beach was lovely with plenty of sun brolleys and beds although do be careful as you have to pay for the yellow mats that go on your sunbeds at 2Dinar each everyday so it all adds up. you don't get free beach towels so make sure you buy your own i have never known an all inclusive resort not to have those 2 things included in the price.
the entertainment was poor and mainly for kids there was supposed to be a disco but after asking the reception staff several times where it was we gave up as none of the staff spoke a word of english which i thought was quite poor. they were rude and i gathered they didn't like men just women if you flirted with them to get change,drink etc. we went to monastir on the train that you book through the hotel that was ok but every shop you walk past you get dragged in and i mean dragged in and pestered so we got fed up and went to the pub until it was time for the train to pick us up. we did ride on a camel though which was only 10Dinar and we enjoyed that also jet skiing is a must which was 40 Dinar.
The food was very poor and flies crawled all over it, as i work with food myself i know what flies can do in a matter of seconds on your food, if your a vegetarian then your in big trouble everything had meat in it even the salads.
overall this wasn't our best holiday mainly beacuse of the hotel and the lack of english staying, mainly germans and french stayed there we wont be rushing back any time soon.please don't be totally put off by this hotel but we have paid even cheaper prices for a 4 star and got a great deal more for our money just because you paid cheap it doesn't mean you should get a rubbish hotel everyone has different views but this is much a hotel that caters for germans and french so be warned....
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Romance Eden Club - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - June 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : 62, 56, 36, 35, 11, 6,5
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Well - we are home now - THANK GOODNESS!!! Holiday from Hell would have been good, this was worse. Where do I start? On arrival, after booking a "Room with partial sea view" we looked out onto a building site. Asked manager to be moved and he told us to use our imagination! Were moved and if you sat on the top bunk, you could see a bit of the sea. Rooms were extrememly basic and not that clean. Sheets were changed once. My daughter's single bed was in fact bricks with a mattress on them! Bath/shower was in poor repair.
Dining Hall (poor excuse for a restaurant) was an absolute health hazard. It is infested with flies. Flies are on food being served and due to the fact that there is a complete lack of staff, dirty plates are piled up everywhere. If you want a clean table, I'm afraid it's self service - you clear the dishes and rubbish onto another table, fight for a space with the flies and hope for the best!
The pool area on first impression seems okay, but my children had their feet cut to shreds. The pool surrounding is in poor state of repair with the terracota tiles cracked and splintering. I had to take a first aid kit with me to the pool everyday, and there was not a day went by that one of the kids cut their feet/toes.
If you want a sunbed, get up at around 4.30 a.m. This was a disaster! It appears to me that this lot have just got greedy and are taking in guests that they just don't have the facilities for. What sunbeds they did have, many were broken and in fact we saw a little girl stand on one one day and her leg went right through. If it wasn't for the fact there was a towel on it, the child's leg would have been slashed.
There is a lifeguard - he would be the one that asks guests if they can get him a beer! He sits hidden in a corner hiding either a glass or bottle of beer drinking all day, so if your kids are not good in the pool - don't take your eyes off of them!
The animation team seemed to be doing their best, but are quite intimidating if you don't want to join in, and the general consensus amongst staff are that english speaking people are all miserable. Several comments were made to us about this.
Another party from England arrived and sat in the reception area because they refused to check in after seeing the state of the toilets in reception. They asked me what I thought of the place, and I told them if they got the chance to change hotels to do so. This is when the two managers were verbally abusive and told me to get back to my room or to get to the pool and not to speak to these people. It got so heated, that one of the male guests I was speaking to, actually stood up and told them that enough was enough. Obviously taking exception to this, they told me to get out of the hotel!!! My husband, who was with my daughter in our room because she was ill, came and confronted them. A "misunderstanding" was the explanation for the outburst. My three daughters, myself and my husband have all had really upset stomachs whilst on holiday, and it is not really surprising considering the lack of hygiene.
We really could not take much more at this point and asked to be moved to another hotel. We sat in reception from 9 a.m. til 4 p.m. waiting for Med Hotels to get back to us. 484 pounds for the privilege of being moved to a hotel of the equivalent rating to the one we had booked, and can I also say we entered into extensive research before we went to get assurances of the quality of this hotel after reading adverse reports. Med Hotels told us that they had been using this hotel for two years and had NO COMPLAINTS. In fact, we were told by the Med Hotel Rep (who did his level best for us) that in fact that they had been using this hotel since April and that he had had nothing but complaints!! In fact he told us that they were withdrawing from this hotel.
I would urge you NOT to go to this hotel, and be very wary if you are booking directly with Med Hotels. They are NOT a member of ABTA, so if you have any complaints, watch out, you may have no comeback.
On our first visit to Tunisia we were completely put off from ever returning, but after moving to the Houda Beach Hotel, our opinion has been changed. REAL Tunisian people are friendly and helpful. The ROMANCE EDEN should be utterly ashamed and are bringing disgrace to their country. DONT GO!!!!!!
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Romance Eden Club - Skanes
Operator and Date: Holiday City/Med Hotels June 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : 62,57,35,35,11,6,5
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I have not personally been to this hotel, however my sister is there right at this moment - with her husband and 3 children and my parents.
I have spent my entire day telephoning Med Hotels. The reason? My sister and the rest of the party were ORDERED to leave the hotel by the managaement for complaining!!!!
She was told not to speak to any other guests, and she was told to go to her room - and stay there!!
DO NOT GO TO THIS HOTEL.
She says it is absolutely filthy, the food is terrible - and the staff are down right ignorant.
As far as the Reps go, I think eventually after waiting for 5 days to see him - he was quite helpful - then that too went downhill.
They are trying to transfer to another hotel, however for that they have been told that they may have to pay an extra £412 per room for their troubles!!!
Well done to Med Hotels - how much extra money are they taking from tourists????!!!
They have been sitting in the Hotel reception for 8 hours now awaiting the Area Manager contacting them.
Another family refused a room there - as it was dirty, and have now been told that they will not be checked into the hotel at all.
I am at my wits end here in Scotland - I can't begin to imagine what my sister must be feeling.
I'm sure you will be able to read her review when she returns home in a weeks time.
Remember - DO NOT book up for the Romance Eden Club.
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Romance Eden Club - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Discounts) Panorama - April 2004
Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : John Campbell - Glasgow (40, 38, 9
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
BRITISH PEOPLE BEWARE!!!! We are just back from Skanes Romance Eden Club and everything is geared towards Germans. There is no information in English and very few of the staff actually speaks English. Included in this fact is the entertainment, which is done by the local animation crew, and despite the obvious enthusiasm leaves a lot to be desired!
We were also promised a sea-view, and if you have imagination and a high-powered x-ray telescope, then you would have one.
Along with others here you can only change money at set times and what these set times are, is anyone's guess.
Every nationality apart from British were provided with cushioned mats for sun loungers and when asked why, we were told that we could get them if we paid, so we had to fork out £3 per day for something we were told was all-inclusive. This paying part was only on a good day, and on some days we were told no, as we weren't German!
Food: ... forget it!!! Breakfast was totally inedible and consisted of sausages and eggs. I have tasted some bad food in my day, but my 9-year-old son, who was practically starving refused to eat the sausages, as did the local cats that I fed one day, and they were scrawny looking! One guest asked for eggs when the trays had been empty for some time and was handed two, which were raw. When he asked for them to be boiled, he was told to "F OFF!" Lunch consisted of Stew and Spaghetti. Dinner consisted of Spaghetti and Stew. Snacks at 3 - 5 consisted of cake at the bar, but if you asked before 4, even although the trays of cake were actually there, you were refused point blank, much to the embarrassment of my wife and a few other British guests. Snacks at 11 - 12 as per brochure, were provided, these were little round biscuits that I remember making in Home Economic classes in High School!! My son actually went hungry on a supposed All-Inclusive and because we were a twenty-minute taxi ride to Sousse (were only decent takeaways were) and this cost £10 round trip, but was worth it to feed my son. Our family and 4 other families ended up eating out every night bar one. I have been on 6 all-inclusive holidays excluding this one and food wise this doesn't compare to even the worst other one.
As per brochure, you are on the beach, but it is dirty and sea is full of seaweed
The men are very pushy and "hands on" so women beware of this.
The pista de résistance for me was the fact of having 1% beer served up and them expecting you to accept that the local beer "Celtia" was very expensive and we had to pay for it. On any all-inclusive local wine, spirits, beer has always been included, but not here. I bought vodka at the bar only for change and it cost me nearly £4. When a representative eventually showed up after 5 days he had a stand up argument with the Hotel Director and told him to give the local brew, Celtia to the guests and he refused. The order of the day for this hotel was "scrimp" and in all aspects of food and drink they were excellent at it.
On the subject of the representative, after 5 days of trying, when he showed up, he had no complaint forms. He arrived the next day with the forms and after 10 minutes told all the complainers that he had to go to other hotels, even although we personally hadn't started writing. One guest said that he couldn't go because he was still writing and he was told he would hit him if he tried to stop him. An argument ensued and resulted in the representative pushing a guest, and becoming very aggressive. This representative was a local and over 6ft, so one can imagine the fear and alarm this caused.
In summary, my first visit to Tunisia was a bad one, and I will probably not go back. This decision is solely down to this hotel, as I won't take the chance for my family that this is not indicative of the country.
I strongly advise that British people give this hotel a very wide berth.
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Hotel Rosa Beach - Skanes
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Jenny Pearson - Doncaster (56,56,55,53
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Our first impression of the Rosa Beach was how tastefully it was decorated. It really is a beautiful hotel.
The rooms were perfectly clean and we were plesantly surprised that we were allocated 2 rooms both with a sea view although we had only paid for an inland view. The food was plentiful and the pancakes at breakfast were cooked while you wait (lovely). The pool area was lovely and clean.
We were on half board so were obliged to eat at the beach bar at lunch time, that was the first rip off. The food there was terrible and overpriced.
Skanes is in between Monastir and Sousse, with nothing around the hotels, no tourist shops or resturants, we think that is how the hotels want to keep it as they have a monopoly on how you spend your money. You are not allowed to take any food or drink into the hotel and the gate-man prods your shopping bags to feel for bottles (we told him it was our money that paid for our goods and walked away - he just accepted that and left us alone).
The animation staff worked their socks off. What they lacked in talent was compensated by enthusiasm. Everything they did was translated into 5 different languages. Other than the 'night club' - soundproofed - everyone seemed to go to bed before 10pm.
This is not a young persons' holiday place, but once again I must say the hotel was exceptionally nice.
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Hotel Royal Kenz - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- June 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Baxter-Vickers (27 + 28)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
This time of the year the weather is absolutly gorgeous. If its a top tan you are after then Tunisia is the place to go. All the staff at the Hotel are so helpful, very very very friendly...bit too much with the ladies sometimes!
We felt that it was graded a little too high for a 4* Thompson Gold as hotel rooms are a little bit shabby, dated and probabley not too that standard of cleanliness and a real down side is that all rooms are 'smoking rooms'. Smelt often of sewage in the corriders and a few wiffs of it now and again around the pool.
The outside area is lovley, especially the bar by the pools and the Royal Kenz restaurant down by the beach. Nice basic food with shade and a sea view to chill out. Nice relaxed music on the go in a relaxed setting.
Be careful when out and about bartering for local products, clothes, souvenirs etc. Its best to look about and decided on what you would like and then how much you will pay for it as its so easy to get a bit sucked in!
Felt very safe at the Hotel. Food was okay, worth trying the tunisian dish each evening. On site shop good prices for water and diet coke! This shop may also give you a rough guide on prices for certain items you may want to buy from the Port or wherever you are out shopping, Once Again Be Carefull as its easy for them to make you feel your getting a propper bargain ( But You Aint!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Was a relaxing holiday all the same.
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Royal Miramar Thalassa - Skanes
Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - Feb 2007
Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : Lesley Lynass - Edinburgh (50-60)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This hotel is a good looking building from the outside and has beautiful gardens which are very well cared for. It is located right on the beach, which is kept nice and clean.
There is a clean, outdoor pool, which is fairly cold in the winter months, but probably pleasant in Summer. There is also an indoor pool, but unfortunately it isn't kept so clean - not the water,it's fine, but the surrounding area where the sun loungers are is a bit grubby, as are the toilets.
The bedrooms are spacious and nicely done up, but unfortunately the maids only know how to make the beds, clean the floors (sometimes), wash out the bathrooms and change the towels. What's wrong with that I hear you say....well, the dead mosquitos (yes there are mosquitos even in February) are left stuck to the walls and the tiles, mirrors and most surfaces are very rarely, if ever, cleaned, so take some Dettol wipes.
The staff are very pleasant and will bend over backwards to help you, so that you leave them a tip (they don't expect much). In Spain they treat you like a huge annoyance if you ask for anything and still expect a tip, so the Tunisians are really quite refreshing.
Entertainment: The animation team try to keep you busy and well looked after during the day and do a great job (table tennis, darts, archery, tennis, mini golf, pool table etc.) The same animation team (who incidently work 7 days a week)have to try and keep you amused in the night club in the evenings.
They try really hard........that's the kindest way I can put it.
Don't take your children there. It can be a bit smutty and don't take them to the Fakir show either as it's a bit too gruesome for young children.
Food: Great choice, beautifully presented, but if you only like pie and chips or bacon and egg, this is not the place for you. No kettles in rooms, so take a kettle and some decent tea bags.
Out and About: Yes you get hassled....it's their culture. They need to make a living, so go with the flow. Haggle. If they say something costs 65 dinar, laugh and offer them 5, then haggle with them till you get something for a respectable price. Price things first by going to the Sula Centre in Sousse, then you have a rough idea what things should cost, but remember the Sula Centre is a bit over priced. Le Shukran means no thankyou and if you say it to them, they'll usually stop hastling you. Don't take anything from anyone unless you are actually going to buy it, because once it's in your hand you'll find it difficult to get them to take it back. Most of the traders are good natured, friendly and only out to make a sale, so don't get upset.
Tunisia is well worth a visit, but try to go to Hammamet or Port el Kantoui as Sousse is a bit grotty, Skanes is nowhere near anywhere except the airport and Monastir beach is a bit dirty, with litter etc. or it was the day I was there.
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Royal Miramar Thalassa - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook-Jan 2007
Opinion submitted in January 2007 by : Lisa-Manchester-25
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
***I have written a bit of an essay as the reviews here put me off and I have just got back and need to dispell the myths!!!***
I got back from the miramar on sunday, and after reading the reviews on here I have to say I was concerned about going especially as I was travelling alone, however I JUST HAD TO COME ON AND DISAGREE WITH THE BAD REVIEWS!
My room was huge, and left immaculately by the maids every day. All the staff in the hotel were really nice and friendly and made me welcome especially being alone, and travelling alone for the first time, and the majority of guests at this time of year were older couples or groups, also all of whom made me feel really welcome. I am jealous they are there for 5/6 weeks and didnt pay much more tha me!
There was a wide range of food every day hot as well as specials, and always plenty of salad fresh fruit and bread and butter. you could help yourself to as much as you wanted, i was on half board.
The entertainment reps were great running activities even when it wasnt busy. I had an aerobics class with one other lady one day! and got involved with the kids even though there were only 2 kids staying and 4 reps!
Thomas cook rep was great and always on hand to help out. The resort tour on the tuesday was worth the £10 as i got to see sousse then get a bus there the rest of the week.
The evening entertainment wasnt amazing, but I went everynight, it was still a good laugh, and the reps really tried to get everyone involved. It is 10TD to see the drag show but it was SO worth it, I was in stitches!
"NEGATIVES"
I would agree that the resort itself doesnt have much to offer aside from a walk on the beach, but over the road 'safari' shop has cheap payphones and also a disco that plays good music and was open til gone 2am even last week. Also a bus to sousse or monastir is only 20-25p and they run every 20 mins from round corner from hotel. dont pay more than 6TD for a taxi to monastir and 7TD to sousse no matter what the driver says!The water in the retaurant/bar WAS cheaper elsewhere, but even so it was still only £1 for 1.5litre so you cant really complain. As for paying for OJ at breakfast. This is the first HB hol i have been on where ANY drinks are included at breakfast. Squash and tea and coffee were free. The OJ was only 80p and was delicious. No one MADE anyone buy it!!
I also agree the hotel isnt 4/5 stars by our standards, but remember tunisia isnt england! It was clean spacious and friendly and to me thats what counts.
Chang money at the airport or in the bank as the rate is less in the hotel though not much less. also in hotel marlborough lights 5TD and tunisian mars 3TD but in town marlboro 2-3 TD and mars 1.6TD
ALL IN ALL
I dont know what everyone was complaining about. I wanted to stay but due to the tunisia filling out forms for your stay etc couldnt, howver I got back sunday afternoon and I am flying back out on wednesday!!!! SEE,IT CANT BE ALL THAT BAD!
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Royal Miramar Thalassa - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - July 2006
Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Donna McIntosh - Hayes, Middlesex (48,42)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
I was very disappointed with the accommodation, we were told it was a 4 star plus, I would not even rate this hotel as a 3 star, there was no mini bar in the room and no double beds, the tiles in the bathroom were cracked on the walls and the floor, we changed rooms three times and still no improvement, the electric went of a few times and the air conditioning was not even worth having on and when it was it was to loud.
the area where the hotel is situated has a lot of buiding work going on down the street so there is not much going on.
The food is terrible, if you know anything about meat you will know that the meat is the bad end of the animal, ( the Lamb is on the bone with loads of fat and the beef is like chewing rubber). The boiled potatoes are part boiled and they can't cook roast potatoes,they just sit in a load of oil, the veg looked like they needed a good wash or had been sitting their for a month and on top of all that there are no machines on the walls to cut down the flys, so the flys are all over the food especially the salad bar and bread.
The entertainment is terrible, they had a show on the beach were a man was laying down on knifes and swords, some kids were scared, another thing was everyone was having dinner and in comes 2 drag queens, that is fine but they ask for everyones attention to let us know about their show later that evening, I thought that was terrible in front of children as a couple we met there had their children with them and the yonger one started asking his parents questions, this is a family resort Not adult only.
The staff are nice it is a shame they are not working for a good owner.
As far as i'm concerned the hotel need closing down and modernised to a 4 star plus standard. I would advise anyone not to use this hotel if you want a good holiday. I just wish i had seen the owner to give him a piece of my mind.
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Royal Miramar Thalasso - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - May 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Clint Hancill - Wells (35, 33)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Very impressed when first entering the hotel. Evening entertainment very good although most of the other British were to important to take part. Nightclub good for a late night. Food was of a very high standard. Lots to do and organised by the very friendly staff. Room was very clean and kept that way by the chambermaids who are well worth leaving a tip. If your wife/girlfriend leave their nightwear our they will come back to find that the chambermaid has arranged them on the bed. Nice restaurant on the complex grounds. So near the beach could see it from my window, kept very clean and patrolled by a policemand if you require any help. Went to Sousse which is not far in a Taxi, very frightning for the women tourists there.
All in all a very good holiday and have booked to go back again this year and next.
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Royal Miramar Thalasso - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - May 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Elisa Taylor & Stephen Cannon (27 & 38)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
This hotel is about 10 minutes from the airport so transfer times are very good.
On arrival we were initially quite impressed. The reception area was nice and the receptionist was very friendly and helpful.
A very helpful porter carried our cases to our room for us (No lift)which was on the 2nd floor. The room was very basic, no tea and coffee making facilities but it did have airconditioning and a hairdryer! Although basic it was very clean. We shared a balcony with the next room but didnt sit out there as the chairs were broken and with a view of the wall we didnt see much point! The pool area was nice and the pool attendant was very helpful. You have to pay for sunbeds and cushions which was about £1.50 per day per person. The beach is about 50m from reception but was very dirty with camels and horses walking up and down it doing their business!! We didnt spend a day on the beach at all.
The resort itself is in the middle of nowhere. There are only other hotels along the road and a shop/cafe across the road (Safari) Water is cheaper in there than in the hotel.
Entertainment at night was much to be desired and any entertainment they did have we had to pay for! It was very disappointing and kind of ruined our holiday. We went to another hotel up the road for a change a couple of times.
The restaurant was quite nice and food was acceptable. We didnt starve but there wasnt too much choice.
All staff are very welcoming and friendly but expect to be tipped at every opportunity.
Remember in Tunisia do not accept anything people are trying to sell because once you take it from them they wont take it back unless you pay them!
We couldnt fault the weather, it was in the 80's everyday and still warm at night.
The Sahara Safari is well worth the money and the visit to the Ampitheatre and camel trip included in it is excellent.
All in all an OK holiday, but we wouldnt go back to Skanes again. Maybe we'll try somewhere a bit more lively!
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Royal Miramar Thalasso - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama-october 2005
Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : bob duncan (64, 20,17,23)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
This is a smart hotel built in the French colonial style,with attractive gardens,large outdoor pool,indoor pool and private beach.The rooms are clean and tidy but basic e.g no fridge. The staff are friendly and helpful,but they have to be as they live virtually on tips because of the low basic wage. However, after a few days,some problems came to light.
The main bones of contention among the guests were
1.Having to pay for the use of the sunbeds (a piece of nonsense these days).2.Poor menu at breakfast .This consisted of eggs any way you like ,bread, juices and tea or coffee(dont expect a full English).3. Again a very samey choice for the evening meal.The food is very much French styled,consisting mainly of turkey legs,some unidentifiable beef stews,fish and salads.There were 2 types of soup ..fish or vegetable..every day!!! There were also Tunisian "specials",ingredients unknown.!If you like chips ..forget it..they dont make them!!
4.Entertainment program at night was amateurish to say the least.
5.The hotel is very remote and is designed for guests to stay in the place and buy their snacks and drinks .The nearest town is 5 miles away.
6.The seats in the main lounge were very uncomfortable..badly needing up graded
Summing up,the younger members of my party loved the beach activities (jet ski's ,parascending,banana boat etc.)but were bored out of their skull at night.There are various excursions and they seemed good value..if you like looking at sand and ruins.I would not recommend this hotel for couple's with a young family.
Tunisia itself is still a 3rd world country trying to break into the tourist market.It has a LONG way to go to catch up with the Mediterranean European tourist areas.The towns of Monastir and Sousse are grubby with chaotic traffic.The markets are full of pickpockets and rip-off merchants.The local yellow taxi's (though cheap) are usually rust buckets which wouldnt pass an MOT in Britain...use them at your peril !!
If you like french cuisine and lying about in the sun all day (the weather for October was scorching).. go here. Otherwise... look elsewhere
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Royal Miramar Thalasso - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - August 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Lisa 33 , Diarmuid 11
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed at the Royal Miramar Thalasso in Skanes, 4* Half board hotel situated on the beach, the weather was hot about 38C - 43 C on the hottest day, it was sunny every day and the staff were very friendly.
We were met off the bus by a porter who took our bags to reception, where we filled out registration cards and then he carreid them to our room which was a bungalow on the grounds with air con and a tv, which was fine.
I think we were the only Irish people in the hotel which was fine, it seemed to be full of Italians and European guests.
We went horse riding and camel riding one morning in Skanes, this was organised by "Charlie" who seems to organise camel trips from the hotel, its only ok, as there was a load of flies...
The hotel has a lovely spa, where i had a lovely mud wrap and full body massage, highly recommended.
There is also free mini golf and play area for the kids.
We stayed 1/2 board, the restaurant was clean and the food was typical buffet style....with a wide variety which was OK.
My only complaint about the hotel was that we had to pay for the sun loungers (3 DT) at the pool and also at the beach, only the green deck chairs are free to use!
Also use the pay phone in the Safari shop across the street to ring home, as i made the mistake of ringing from the hotel which cost me 20 DT for about 7 minutes call to Ireland!
We spent a day at the Aqua Palace in Port El Kantouhi which was fine, not as big as the water parks in Spain but a nice day out and good value for money, we got a taxi up for 12DT. Agree a price with the taxi driver before you go.
We also went para sailing from the beach which was also fantastic 35Dt for 2 people.
There was entertainment in the evenings, which was typical of any holiday resort. Usually ended about 11pm
We felt 100% safe at all times and there is security on the beach in the evenings.
The airport has a great duty free, and i will definately go back, its ideal if all you want is to relax by the pool or on the beach, as the weather is great.
I found the hotel to be child friendly, my 11 yr old son had a great time, as there was water polo during the day, and he also had access to ping pong. There is a games room with a pool table.
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Royal Miramar - Skanes
Operator and Date: july 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : paul knott ,shafia khanom -berkshire (25,26)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
arrived in tunisia late at night so didnt really see much of the hotel straight away but the staff where very helpfull when we explained that we werent very happy with our room they moved us straight away so our first morning we woke up to a stunning view of the sea.
staff at the desk were the most helpfull and polite people you could wish for.rooms where clean and the cleaners where always around if you needed anything extra.
food was ok lots of salads and veg, be carefull of the fresh fish (we had a prawn coctail in there restaurant by the pool)very warm and smelt/tasted overly fishy(a sign that its gone off)
swimming pool was great except for the fact that it was very very salty, they did have a sign saying it was a sea water pool but the fact they had someone walking around with a bucket of salt every morning casually tipping it around the pool- defeated the object of it being sea water. (the reason given for this was because they use salt for the same reasons we use chlorine!!???!!)you do have to pay for the sunbeds only a small fee 2dinars (£1) which alot of people thought was wrong.
not alot to do around resort we had to get a taxi to the near by towns for any real shopping but the taxi fares are very cheap. the local shop called the safari was very good for snacks and drinks much cheaper than hotel prices for the same items. the safari also have public payphones which are alot cheaper than using the hotel phone to make calls back home to the uk.
be carefull though they dont like you taking in food or drink from other places, there was some people where they confiscated the food and drink they bought in from outside!!
word of warning the blokes on the beach who try and sell you things(scarfs,toy camels,chains etc) are con artists you do have to be harsh with them as they are very good at what they do,say no and stick to it they do get the message eventually.
the panorama rep was ok we didnt really have much to do with her,saw her on day two and that was it.
look out for charlie he can normally be found in the lobby, he does camel and horse rides- works for the hotel great guy,always willing to help.
he helped us more than the rep did!!!
if you do do anything while you are there book a trip with him for around £12 each
apart from a great time riding a horse or camel you can experiance a traditional wedding,traditional food(made infront of you-all included in the price) you are also helping the local people financially.
prices in the hotel for a large beer 5 dinars (£2.50)
lemonade 1300 (70p)
taxi to sousse 6-7 dinars (£3-4)
TIP-
take u.k cash as you get more for it when you are over there (our cash has more value than u.s dollars)
there is a bank to exchange our currency to there dinars in the hotel foyer.
weather was very hot, great for a relaxing holiday. evening entertainment left alot to be desired but they did the best they could.they did seem to have some sort of kids club and the kids we saw seemed to be very happy.
all in all a great relaxing holiday will be going back soon.
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Royal Miramar Thalasso - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - March 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Vern Phillips (41), Emma (37), Jack (4), James (2) - Dorset
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Hotel's location was "well sold" by the Tour Operator!
Whilst there are no complaints about the Hotel, the "resort" of Skanes does not really exist. Skanes lies (approximately) midway between Monastir and Sousse and consists of 5 or 6 hotel complexes and (in the distance to the north) a cement works. The cement works is not an eyesore as it is not in view until you wish to travel from the immediate vicinity.
If you are not travelling as a family and you are interested in golf, any of the hotels in Skanes would be for you. Over the otherside of the main road is (what appears to be) a superb golf course, the Palm Links Golf Course.
The transfer takes 10 minutes from the airport and once in Skanes, you are not able to hear, and are not troubled by, the aircraft.
As a family, I would return to Tunisia for another holiday. The people are more than accomodating and most appear to be able to speak/converse in four languages - Arabic (naturally), French, German, and English. There appears to be no discrimination towards any particular "ethnic" group of tourist, they are happy with anyone's money. The people are exceptionally friendly towards families and, especially children - rather like the Portugese in that respect.
The currency, Tunisian Dinar, is a closed currency and you can only obtain it once in the country. The exchange rate commission is much the same as any other country but, be warned! Only change small amounts at a time (£50 - £100) at a time, and ensure that you are all spent out upon your return to the airport for your trip home. It is illegal for any Dinar to be taken out of the country and any left (by the time you reach passport control) must be changed back, The commission at the airport is 30%!!!! Should you try and take any out of the country and you get caught, either you will be sent back to change it (if they are feeling generous) or it will be confiscated and the commission therefore becomes 100%.
For a family trip, and the usual "family type" events and activities, you would be wise to book somewhere north of Sousse. The active part of Tunisia in this respect appears to be from Sousse up to Tunis. If you are prepared to travel (car hire) then it is up to you where you reside.
We used the public transport (buses), as we always do wherever we go in the world, and it was an experience. The cost is really low (0.510 Dinar - 40p to Sousse and 0.710 Dinar - 60p to Monastir) and is definately the way to get about! There appear to be no timetables but buses run every 15-20 minutes and once moving they don't hang about.
The hotel was good, regular chamber maid service, polite and helpful staff in all respects, and the indoor pool is fantastic for the children. Both the main pool and the smaller pool are both heated (to 30 degrees C) and a life guard is usually in attendance. The beach is sandy, yet narrow - perhaps only 30 feet wide - but there is litle tidal encroachment so it doesn't change much.
We were advised to book 4 star as it would be equivalent to the 3 star we are all used to and that was sound advice.
People have complained about the poorer locals "pestering" them in the local Medina (in Sousse and Monastir) as well as the sellers on the beach - constantly roaming up and down trying to offload non-genuine cigarettes et cetera. However, if when they approach you, you say "no thank you" (or just ignore them) they accept it and move on. We were never annoyed by them it just happened a lot.
One final point, on the plane on the way over there, you will be given a white entry/exit visa card to comlete - DO IT! It must be filled in for each passport holder and each passport is checked, read, stamped, compared with the detail son the entry/exit card. Becuase of this, there is a long wait on arrival in Tunisia. The entry/exit card is stampoed and you are given the bottom third (the exit bit). KEEP THIS! You will need it, with your passport, to get back out!
All in all, Tunisia is a nice place to go and the people are great (as already mentioned). Port El Kantoui is picturesque (but a bit "touristy") and worth a visit. It is only about 4/5 miles north of Sousse.
Happy holidays to anyone who goes!
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Royal Miramar - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - Oct 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Mr & Mrs J Taylor, 25,35 Plus Children 2.5, and 18months
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We recently took a weeks break at the Royal Miramar Hotel. This hotel is close to the airport, but you do not get the noise of the planes.
Upon arrival we were greeted by the hotel porters who took our bags, which we were quite grateful for as the hotel does not have a lift, and we were on the second floor. The grounds and the entrance hall are impressive and kept clean, as is the rest of the hotel including the rooms. Daily maid service who are efficient and polite. Rooms have air conditioning, which is essential even in October!
Food fairly monotonous buffet style self service in the dining room. But there is an al a carte dining room separate.
I would suggest taking your own spirits as a bottle of nondescript whisky fetches about £65 there. Bar prices £1.50 per small bottle of beer, £7 pounds +/- for a bottle of wine, quite drinkable. Very frienly bar tenders. (Try the Miramar cocktail!, my wife liked it!!)
The beach is on your doorstep, but you do have to pay £1 for a sunbed.
Watch out for the locals selling stuff on the beach, I was conned out of a £10 note the first day for a handfull of beads and a few head scarfs, keep a handfull of 1 dinar coins to ward off these traders, very nice but persistent!!
DONT TAKE ANYTHING OFF THEM IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO BUY IT, IT IS NOT FREE.
On the down side they are not particularly children friendly, though there were a few waiters in the retaraunt who did make an effort.
We did eat lunch in the al a carte restaraunt and for my eldest daughter I ordered spag Bol from the childrens menu, her favourite. Unfortunately they cooked this with a bay leaf an she almost choked to death on it, (never having seen a bay leaf before, she assumed she could eat it) nobody rushed to our aid, despite being no more that two feet away the waiters were too busy chatting up two French ladies, despite my daughter turning blue and eventually vomiting all over the place.
Once I had made sure my daughter was alright I queried with the head waiter why there was a bay leaf in a childrens portion, this I was told was for flavour!!
As I have said before they do not cater for children at this hotel, so if you have any, dont go!! They dont want you!!
However couples and anyone over the age of 25 should enjoy this hotel.
I would recomend taking a taxi to Monastir or El Kantoui, but not Souse!
Local supermarket 2dinar ride away the Miami supermarket, the one across the road very limited and expensive.
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Royal Miramar Thalasos - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook july 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : kathy shawcross-cheshire (32,30,7,3)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
First of all- if you have booked this hotel you must request main hotel only as the bungalows are dreadful.
This hotel is by far one of the best hotels in the area with clean suroundings and helpful staff.
Pools are lovely but salt water can irritate the kids after a while.
Anyone going to tunisia must do the 3 day safari we did it in temps of 43 degrees with 2 small children and we all loved it so much it made our holiday and what a bargain for £75 each (half price for the kids)its a must to see the sahara desert and all the other fantastic stuff they take you to see, all of course on air con coach.
Now the food- yes after a few days you dread the meals but this is a poor country and they do there best to keep you happy if you ask you can have is there advice but if you put up with it they will keep dishing it up.
Lots of storys about beggars on this site well trust me this is a poor country although its beautiful its poor compared to the uk and if begging from tourist feeds there children each day and for many it does how many of you would do it if you had to? Im sure all of you would.
Would i go back? no only because its its not a busy place with lots to offer like the med but im so glad i have been to see such an amazing place.
ps. If like us you like a drink in your room whilst getting ready in the evening forget buying a cheap bottle from the shops this is a muslim country and only one shop per town sells alcohol so stock up in the airport if you must.
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Royal Miramar - Skanes
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - May 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Graham &Pauline. (48)
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just came back from there, was not impressed with this hotel.
Accomadition was a small bungalow type room near the sea, room excellent except for the smell of the rotting seaweed.
Weather unfortunauly not very good for most of the holiday and the hotel makes no allowance for that, entertainment wise.
You are basically left to your own devises.
Food we thought was terrible, breakfast the same everyday and and some nights the choice was that bad we could not find anything ediable.
Miles from anywhere you have to take a taxi or a bus if you want to do any site seeing or shopping.
Prices in the hotel for little things like crisps, pack of cards (believe me you will need these) cigarettes etc are very expensive.
There is a mini market across the road that has just opened but unfortunatley there is very little in it.
You can get a nice chip buttie and real English tea and coffee from the cafe there as the owner is English.
But this is not overly cheap either (£1 for a mug of coffee)
On the whole we would not go back to this resort again
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Royal Miramar Thalassa - Skanes
Operator and Date: April 2004
Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Steve and Wendy (45,42)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
First impressions of the hotel is good but by the time you have been there for two weeks it tends to be a bit boring. Expect the same breakfast every single day and a rotation of evening meal's, if your having the buffet, and only average quality a'la carte meals from the snack bar. Glass's can be very dirty but most meal cutlery and crocery is clean, however watch out for fighting waiters at evening meal time. Two had a tiff and on punched the other in full view of the guests, not very good for people with young children.
Paying 3TD for sunloungers is not acceptable nor is paying 2.2TD for a bottle of water when it can be bought at the shop over the road for only 0.600TD! All drinks in the hotel are of similar price to the UK but of a much lower standard. Some of the trips are good value but can be long, lasting up to 12 hours in a single day (mostly sitting on a bus) and not suitable for people with disabilities.
Overall the holiday was only average and its the first time ever, we have looked forward to returning home. All the other guests had similar opinions but we made the best of it and still managed to have a laugh!
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Royal Miramar Thalassa - Skanes
Operator and Date: Cadogan Holidays - Mar/April 2004
Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Yvonne King - Canterbury (43)
Resort Rating: No rating
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
There is absolutely nothing in Skanes apart from hotels. There is nowhere to wander to so if you don't go half board at the hotel, you will have to get a taxi to another resort (Sousse for instance) for your evening meal.
Hotel was clean but rooms very basic - no tea/coffee making facilities and no fridge/minibar. Maid was very sweet - they work every day for a pittance and mine was very grateful for the 15TD I gave her on the last morning.
Food gets very 'samey' after 3/4 days. Breakfast the same every day, no bacon for example but you can have eggs cooked to order. Boiled eggs and tomatoes every day, pastries very nice. Take your own tea bags! They provide a fruit drink but it tasted like it was full of 'E' numbers - pretty disgusting; they do provide freshly squeezed orange juice for 1.5TD (approx 75p), which was delicious.
One thing I was utterly disgusted with and that is that they charge you 3TD for the use of a sunbed and cushion in the hotel pool area!! This is the first time in my many holidays that I have been charged within the hotel complex - they also charge on the beach, which is pretty standard anywhere now.
Shop on site is expensive - 3TD for a bag of crips for example. Gran Marnier in the American bar was the equivalent of £4.50 for a small shot and they charge you 15TD for the hire of a safety deposit box for a week.
Indoor pool nice. Spa centre and treatments lovely (additional cost for treatments but very good value compared with home). I had a turkish bath with exfoliation and mud wrap for 20TD (roughly £10). I think it is probably the spa which has brought this hotel up to a 4 star.
I made the most of the spa facilities because the weather was dreadful. I went on the 28th March and for the first 3 days it rained constantly. All in all, we had 2.5 days of nice weather though the wind was very chilly - be prepared! Forget the strappy tops!
I went on a 'city tour' trip with the Cadogan rep. This included a visit to the ex-president's mauseleum in Monastir, a visit to a leather shop, carpet factory, an hour in Sousse and then on to Port el Kantouri. Cost about £12 which I felt was good value - out at 8.30am, back at 3pm-ish.
Duty free shop in the airport was well stocked - cigarettes ridiculously cheap; brought 400 Superkings back for a friend and they cost approx £24 for the 400 - he was over the moon! You cannot use Dinar in the duty free shop and you cannot take the currency out of the country - need to change it back at the airport; keep your receipts as you can only change up to 30% of what you have changed into Dinar, back to Sterling.
The best thing about this holiday was that I met some lovely people who I will be keeping in touch with, otherwise I think it would have been very forgettable. Location of the hotel and the weather was the worst aspects.