Royal Blue Hotel

I wouldn't normally write a review but this is my exception to advise others before booking this hotel, as it certainly isn't a 5 star hotel. We stayed here because of the rating and the location as that cannot be faulted, as we stayed at the Valamar Aggossi 4 star (two hotels along from the Royal Blue) 2 years back and thought we would try the next level. things to be aware of, the first of which caused me to have a meting with the hotel manager about the rest of the issues. Around 2:30pm every day, the local kids pool hop down the 4 hotels in this chain and on the day I complained they had taken over the kids pool by the sea meaning all the little ones had to leave. The pool attendants and security did nothing and it took me to get them out to allow other family's to enjoy what they had booked. This happens daily where they rampage though the 4 pools and even the indoor spa pool. I know kids will be kids but it really gets out of hand and not good when you have paid so much for the experience. The breakfast buffet is awful. There is a very small selection of warm yoghurt and stale pastries, nothing is in a fridge counter and all meats cheese etc have to be ordered off a menu and you don't have the chance to pick and choose like a normal buffet. The sea area pool attendants informed everyone that to order a drink etc and book it to your room there is a 2 euro fee per transaction, where as if you paid by cash there was no charge. I questioned the manager on this and he was extremely shocked as this is not the policy, and what was happening is that certain members were clearly pocketing the cash ....this was sorted immediately. The pool area (floor tiles) at the royal blue weren't cleaned for the 11 days were were there, it was disgusting, plus random metal/concrete bollards sat rusting next to the pool, go knows why they were there. When you get to your room you are given 1 bottle of water for your stay...not one daily as you would expect especially in a star 5 hotel !! Please be aware there is no walk in shower, just a very high bath with a shower head. the baths are also sloped and extremely slippy as my wife found out as she fell getting out ....note the hight to get out is 2ft, which some younger or older people will struggle with. The bedroom carpets were fifthly and large chunks missing out of the skirtings as well as ours being water damaged and mouldy around the patio door. Holes in the curtains, which someone had tried to fil in and disguise with silver spray paint !!!. If this hotel was badged as 'small and friendly' then I suppose it would be ok, but there is no way this is 5 star and I would rate it 3 star at best. As I say I wouldn't normally write a review but I really fell people should know this and think about it when booking such a potentially expensive holiday. I have attached some pics - if booked then you were warned ! I would STRONGLY RECOMMEND the Valamar Aggossi instead.

From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely welcome, from the reception team to the waiters to the cleaning crew. Everyone was warm and attentive. Our room was spotless and comfortable, with a beautiful view of the crystal-clear sea. The restaurant made the stay even better with delicious food and that same easy hospitality. Everything felt seamless, a truly excellent experience. Perched above the hotel, the rooftop restaurant and bar with its pool is a highlight all on its own. Great views, relaxed vibes, and the perfect spot for sunset drinks.