El Pueblo Tamlelt

Very disappointing – I wouldn't return

I have recently returned from El Pueblo Tamlelt and unfortunately I would not recommend this hotel.

I'll start with the positive: the pools were clean and probably the best part of the hotel. However, they weren't heated, so the water could be very cold. Unfortunately, even around the pools many of the sunbeds were very old, worn or broken and clearly needed replacing.

The accommodation itself is extremely dated and desperately needs investment. The electrical sockets in my room were in a terrible state, the shower was barely usable with only a few drips of water coming from the shower head, the bathroom fittings were heavily covered in limescale and the sink took forever to drain.

I didn't ask to change rooms because, after speaking to other guests and hearing about the problems they were having with their rooms, I actually felt I had one of the better ones and didn't want to risk being moved somewhere worse.

The food was probably my biggest disappointment. We were all-inclusive but found the food very bland and frequently cold. It got to the point where we chose to go out and pay to eat elsewhere, which obviously added considerably to the cost of an all-inclusive holiday.

There were also stained items of hotel laundry/linen, which added to the overall impression that standards simply weren't where they should be.

My sister, who arrived before me, experienced much more serious issues during her stay, including money/property going missing from her room on multiple occasions. This was reported and ultimately became serious enough for her to make a report to the police. She was also moved from her original room after suffering numerous insect bites.

We also became uncomfortable after appearing to catch members of hotel staff filming my sister and her friend around the pool. I want to be clear that I cannot say why they were filming, but it made us uncomfortable.

The frustrating thing is that this hotel could actually be lovely. The grounds and pools have potential, and there were staff members who were friendly. But the rooms, maintenance, food and general standard desperately need attention.

I went determined to make the best of my holiday and we did have some great experiences outside the hotel, but I would not stay at El Pueblo Tamlelt again. Having experienced it myself, I'm genuinely surprised that major UK holiday companies are still offering this property without significant improvements being made.

Second time staying here. Lots of problems but I will try and concentrate on the positives. Food was good most of the time, though it can be repetitive. The dining room filled up quickly. Try and give a tip to a waiter who will look after you and bring you your drinks. Best internet was around the pools and at reception. Dont accept the first room you are given, some are much better than others. Good entertainment though the evening bars always had queues. Good value if you can put up with some of the negatives written here.