Riu Vistamar ClubHotel, Puerto Rico, Canary Islands
Hotel Information
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
The Riu Club Vistamar is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea and is built on 5 levels. Situated 900m from the beach, 2 km from Puerto Rico, 900m from the shopping centre and 45 km to the airport. loading...
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Riu Vistamar ClubHotel Reviews
" Brilliant Holiday "
Submitted By: Caz82
We have just returned from a week here. We booked this holiday for a nice relaxing break. It was lovely I would definitely recommend it again. We chose this hotel after reading some of the reviews on here.
The Hotel is great. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The facilities are good and every where is very clean. The pool is lovely and not too hard to find a lounger even later on in the day. The hotel has everything you need really and it is very easy not to need to leave the hotel complex.
All the rooms have a sea view although we were put on the lowest floor and it was restricted by the netting and bits. However I did ask to move and it was not a problem - no questions asked. I would recommend floor 5. Speaking to others there they emailed in advance so would do that in future. The rooms are a good size and very clean and tidy and reasonably modern.
There is a free courtesy bus down to the Amadores beach which is really helpful. The beach is nice and there are a few shops there too.
The evening entertainment is actually ok although a little cheesy at times. We were all inclusive and there was always food an drink available. The food is good - I am a picky eater but I found there was still enough variety although beware that not all the food is labeled. The daytime activities were good - lots of games and kids stuff and little comedy sketches now and again. The entertainment team work very hard
There is a nice coastal walk into Puerto Rico beach and harbour which only takes about 30 mins. A taxi only costs about 3- 3.50 Euro. The area was pretty quiet and I think they are not getting the tourism they used to. As a result you do find the shops are keen to give you a good price! We only saw 1 time share place but we were told they had just shut a load down. So we weren't hassled too much.
The downsides would be that it is down a steep hill but its only 5 mins to get to the top! The lifts were very busy at breakfast and dinner times. There are a lot of Germans and other nationalities in the hotel so food, entertainment etc is aimed at them a lot although it it didn't affect our enjoyment.
I would definitely go back again - the other hotel I would consider is the Gloria Palace, there is 1 either side of the Riu and we are told they are also very good.
The Hotel is great. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The facilities are good and every where is very clean. The pool is lovely and not too hard to find a lounger even later on in the day. The hotel has everything you need really and it is very easy not to need to leave the hotel complex.
All the rooms have a sea view although we were put on the lowest floor and it was restricted by the netting and bits. However I did ask to move and it was not a problem - no questions asked. I would recommend floor 5. Speaking to others there they emailed in advance so would do that in future. The rooms are a good size and very clean and tidy and reasonably modern.
There is a free courtesy bus down to the Amadores beach which is really helpful. The beach is nice and there are a few shops there too.
The evening entertainment is actually ok although a little cheesy at times. We were all inclusive and there was always food an drink available. The food is good - I am a picky eater but I found there was still enough variety although beware that not all the food is labeled. The daytime activities were good - lots of games and kids stuff and little comedy sketches now and again. The entertainment team work very hard
There is a nice coastal walk into Puerto Rico beach and harbour which only takes about 30 mins. A taxi only costs about 3- 3.50 Euro. The area was pretty quiet and I think they are not getting the tourism they used to. As a result you do find the shops are keen to give you a good price! We only saw 1 time share place but we were told they had just shut a load down. So we weren't hassled too much.
The downsides would be that it is down a steep hill but its only 5 mins to get to the top! The lifts were very busy at breakfast and dinner times. There are a lot of Germans and other nationalities in the hotel so food, entertainment etc is aimed at them a lot although it it didn't affect our enjoyment.
I would definitely go back again - the other hotel I would consider is the Gloria Palace, there is 1 either side of the Riu and we are told they are also very good.
Advice: Our best holiday yet - great for a sun / beach holiday
Activities: Aqualand @ Maspolomas
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Best Holiday! "
Submitted By: holly_reviews
I booked this holiday because I was in need of a relaxing break, it did not disappoint. I loved this hotel! The room was really nice, everyone gets an ocean view and balcony because it's built down the cliff.
The staff were really really friendly. The guys on reception are so smooth talking but they will do everything they can to make sure everything is perfect for you. The maids are really friendly and they always made our towels into some cool animal on the bed. The chefs and bar staff were lovely too. Always smiling, nothing was ever too much trouble.
The facilities were great. The pools were amazing. My favourite was the top infinity edge pool with fabulous views out to sea and over towards Tenerife. That cascades over into the lower pool down near the kids play centre and the bar and cafe. There are courts above that for tennis, volleyball, boules etc.
The food was really good. Ignore people who complain about burgers and pizza. Yes you can get them but you can also get tasty local food too. This place caters for everyone.
You can get a free bus down to the beach and back throughout the day or get a taxi to Puerto Rico and take the glass bottom ferry to nearby towns. Just order a taxi at reception and it will be there in 5 mins or less. I recommend the Bluebird ferry as they hand out sangria once they get underway (inclusive in your ticket price).
Puerto Rico itself is a bit garish and tacky. Great if you want the stereotypical brits abroad type of holiday but otherwise I'd just use it as a ferry port.
I recommend Areguinguin for a short visit, lovely little fishing town. Walk along the beach and peruse a few shops before having a beer (Tropical is the local brew) on the sea front.
I also recommend Mogan. This place is so beautiful. It's quite small but very pretty. I recommend the La Lonja restaurant on the front by the Marina. Their tapas is a little pricey with the current exchange rate but it's soooo worth it! They also sell a really fresh sauv blanc ice cold. Finish up your meal with a honey rum if you have the cash too. Not cheap but worth it if you fancy splashing out a bit.
As for tours I did 2 of what First Choice offered. The VIP island delights was a convoy of comfy people carriers that took you on a tour of the interior of the island with a 3 course lunch included (and a chance to sample the honey rum). If you want to do a dolphin spotting trip then I recommend the Magic dolphin one. They were less crowded than others and the crew were more knowledgable than the others. I saw dolphins and whales up close. They also have a glass bottom so you can see the dolphins swimming right next to you.
The bad points:
The lifts. They have 2 to serve the whole section. If like me you end up on floor 1 then you can be waiting a long time for a lift. So just expect this and relax and don't worry about it. It's a small price to pay.
Steepness. If you fancy a stroll out of the hotel to visit the europa centre or such then be aware that it is a steep climb up to the main road. Take it easy and take plenty of viewing stops on your way up. It's only about 2 mins to the gate but the angle makes it seem more.
That's it. Hope this helps you and that you enjoy this place as much as I did if you choose to visit.
The staff were really really friendly. The guys on reception are so smooth talking but they will do everything they can to make sure everything is perfect for you. The maids are really friendly and they always made our towels into some cool animal on the bed. The chefs and bar staff were lovely too. Always smiling, nothing was ever too much trouble.
The facilities were great. The pools were amazing. My favourite was the top infinity edge pool with fabulous views out to sea and over towards Tenerife. That cascades over into the lower pool down near the kids play centre and the bar and cafe. There are courts above that for tennis, volleyball, boules etc.
The food was really good. Ignore people who complain about burgers and pizza. Yes you can get them but you can also get tasty local food too. This place caters for everyone.
You can get a free bus down to the beach and back throughout the day or get a taxi to Puerto Rico and take the glass bottom ferry to nearby towns. Just order a taxi at reception and it will be there in 5 mins or less. I recommend the Bluebird ferry as they hand out sangria once they get underway (inclusive in your ticket price).
Puerto Rico itself is a bit garish and tacky. Great if you want the stereotypical brits abroad type of holiday but otherwise I'd just use it as a ferry port.
I recommend Areguinguin for a short visit, lovely little fishing town. Walk along the beach and peruse a few shops before having a beer (Tropical is the local brew) on the sea front.
I also recommend Mogan. This place is so beautiful. It's quite small but very pretty. I recommend the La Lonja restaurant on the front by the Marina. Their tapas is a little pricey with the current exchange rate but it's soooo worth it! They also sell a really fresh sauv blanc ice cold. Finish up your meal with a honey rum if you have the cash too. Not cheap but worth it if you fancy splashing out a bit.
As for tours I did 2 of what First Choice offered. The VIP island delights was a convoy of comfy people carriers that took you on a tour of the interior of the island with a 3 course lunch included (and a chance to sample the honey rum). If you want to do a dolphin spotting trip then I recommend the Magic dolphin one. They were less crowded than others and the crew were more knowledgable than the others. I saw dolphins and whales up close. They also have a glass bottom so you can see the dolphins swimming right next to you.
The bad points:
The lifts. They have 2 to serve the whole section. If like me you end up on floor 1 then you can be waiting a long time for a lift. So just expect this and relax and don't worry about it. It's a small price to pay.
Steepness. If you fancy a stroll out of the hotel to visit the europa centre or such then be aware that it is a steep climb up to the main road. Take it easy and take plenty of viewing stops on your way up. It's only about 2 mins to the gate but the angle makes it seem more.
That's it. Hope this helps you and that you enjoy this place as much as I did if you choose to visit.
Advice: Tacky and garish - but the ferry here will whisk you away to better sights!
Activities: La Lonja in Mogan, First Choice VIP Island Delights tour
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Nov 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" holiday review "
Submitted By: 4johnl
Stayed at this hotel in late November.
Firstly the bad points: - the hotel is situated down a very steep bank (cardiac hill is what it’s called) so if you want to venture out for a walk beware). Although there are plenty of lifts in the hotel you were forever waiting for one sometimes up to 10 minutes. The entertainment was absolute rubbish, it was ok for the young children but for adults “definitely not”. That is all the bad points.
The rooms are situated on floors 1 to 5, 5 being the highest. Floor 6 is ?, 7 is the restaurant accessed via floor 8 which is the reception and floor 9 is the pool area and pool bar pool restaurant / snack bar.
There is a free safety deposit box and air con in the room and our room was cleaned nearly every day, the cleaners were very good. All room have a sea view but if I were you I would ask for a high floor say 4 or 5. Floor one is at the bottom and you will have a view of the sea obscured by the netting over the cliff, all rooms have a sea view. There is also a mini fridge in your room, you can get free 1 litre bottles of water from reception and there is a small shop there. All in all the staff are very friendly and cannot do enough for you. But there is some signs of wear & tear at the hotel which the management are gradually addressing.
There were 2 sittings for the evening meal 6.30 or 8.30 we were initially on the 8.30 time but changed to the 6.30 as we do not like eating late the food was good with a large variety. The chefs actually cook some of the food in front of you, it is all a self service buffet type sitting. The pool bar restaurant had speciality nights which were 3 nights barbecue, 3 nights Canarian and so on but you have to book the day before, we did not try the evening meals up there. There are 2 pools and a gym on the 9th floor and a food bar where you can have a late breakfast and lunch. You just help yourself to soft drinks, tea/coffee, wine and beer. If you want spirits or cocktails there is a bar, if you want named drinks just ask for them. On arrival you get a card each for pool towels for the sun beds, you exchange the cards for these near the pool and you can change them daily. There is also a sun terrace on the 9th floor which was very peaceful, ie- no children. The entertainment staff run competitions/games throughout the day
We did venture out into Puerto Rico for a couple of nights out, prices varied went into M & M’s bar bottles of beer were 1-1.5 Euros, named spirits were 2 Euros. Got ripped off in Harleys bar 6.50Euros for a Smirnoff & coke and 7.0 Euros for 2 local gin & tonics and it was supposed to be 2 for the price of one, the 007 bar opposite (same owner) were half the price. Found it very quite this time of year.
Taxi from hotel to centre was about 3.5 Euros, just go to reception and they will order you one, it only takes a couple of minutes to arrive.
I would definitely go back to this hotel again. Beware do not be overweigh on your luggage back to the airport they definitely charge you 11 Euros per Kg even if you are just over.
Firstly the bad points: - the hotel is situated down a very steep bank (cardiac hill is what it’s called) so if you want to venture out for a walk beware). Although there are plenty of lifts in the hotel you were forever waiting for one sometimes up to 10 minutes. The entertainment was absolute rubbish, it was ok for the young children but for adults “definitely not”. That is all the bad points.
The rooms are situated on floors 1 to 5, 5 being the highest. Floor 6 is ?, 7 is the restaurant accessed via floor 8 which is the reception and floor 9 is the pool area and pool bar pool restaurant / snack bar.
There is a free safety deposit box and air con in the room and our room was cleaned nearly every day, the cleaners were very good. All room have a sea view but if I were you I would ask for a high floor say 4 or 5. Floor one is at the bottom and you will have a view of the sea obscured by the netting over the cliff, all rooms have a sea view. There is also a mini fridge in your room, you can get free 1 litre bottles of water from reception and there is a small shop there. All in all the staff are very friendly and cannot do enough for you. But there is some signs of wear & tear at the hotel which the management are gradually addressing.
There were 2 sittings for the evening meal 6.30 or 8.30 we were initially on the 8.30 time but changed to the 6.30 as we do not like eating late the food was good with a large variety. The chefs actually cook some of the food in front of you, it is all a self service buffet type sitting. The pool bar restaurant had speciality nights which were 3 nights barbecue, 3 nights Canarian and so on but you have to book the day before, we did not try the evening meals up there. There are 2 pools and a gym on the 9th floor and a food bar where you can have a late breakfast and lunch. You just help yourself to soft drinks, tea/coffee, wine and beer. If you want spirits or cocktails there is a bar, if you want named drinks just ask for them. On arrival you get a card each for pool towels for the sun beds, you exchange the cards for these near the pool and you can change them daily. There is also a sun terrace on the 9th floor which was very peaceful, ie- no children. The entertainment staff run competitions/games throughout the day
We did venture out into Puerto Rico for a couple of nights out, prices varied went into M & M’s bar bottles of beer were 1-1.5 Euros, named spirits were 2 Euros. Got ripped off in Harleys bar 6.50Euros for a Smirnoff & coke and 7.0 Euros for 2 local gin & tonics and it was supposed to be 2 for the price of one, the 007 bar opposite (same owner) were half the price. Found it very quite this time of year.
Taxi from hotel to centre was about 3.5 Euros, just go to reception and they will order you one, it only takes a couple of minutes to arrive.
I would definitely go back to this hotel again. Beware do not be overweigh on your luggage back to the airport they definitely charge you 11 Euros per Kg even if you are just over.
Advice: Too many timeshare people mainly bars and restaurants
Activities: Amadores Beach
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Nov 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Excellent Value. "
Submitted By: lindek
We stayed for three weeks in November. Having previously stayed at two Riu Palace hotels on a half board basis we were wondering what the all-inclusive would be like.
We were not disappointed. In comparision to other all-inclusive hotels we have stayed at this was by far the best.
Food was excellent, fresh and varied and catered for all tastes. Free bottles of water were available at reception at all times.
Entertainment?... not really our thing but the theatre was allways busy if that's any indication. The staff were superb,always friendly and happy to help. Special mention to Jessica and Rueben at the bars, Stefano in the restaurant and Michael in reception.
We had a problem with the plug in the washbasin, which was fixed whilst we had dinner....... unlike some other hotels.
Downsides?.. the lifts were busy but we were on the fifth floor so we walked and if you like a stroll after dinner along the promenade then it's a long walk to get to it.The shuttle bus stops at around 18.00.Taxi to Puerto Rico 3 Euros. Taxi to Mogan was 16 euros.
This is a hotel where you eat,sleep and completely relax.....which we like to do.
We were not disappointed. In comparision to other all-inclusive hotels we have stayed at this was by far the best.
Food was excellent, fresh and varied and catered for all tastes. Free bottles of water were available at reception at all times.
Entertainment?... not really our thing but the theatre was allways busy if that's any indication. The staff were superb,always friendly and happy to help. Special mention to Jessica and Rueben at the bars, Stefano in the restaurant and Michael in reception.
We had a problem with the plug in the washbasin, which was fixed whilst we had dinner....... unlike some other hotels.
Downsides?.. the lifts were busy but we were on the fifth floor so we walked and if you like a stroll after dinner along the promenade then it's a long walk to get to it.The shuttle bus stops at around 18.00.Taxi to Puerto Rico 3 Euros. Taxi to Mogan was 16 euros.
This is a hotel where you eat,sleep and completely relax.....which we like to do.
Advice: Typical holiday port. Time share sharks everywhere. Glass bottom boat to Mogan very popular.
Activities:
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- Date of Holiday:Nov 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" Just got back from a weeks honeymoon... "
Submitted By: Mr N Elwell
Just got back from a weeks honeymoon at the vistimar, we chose the hotel based on the strength of the reviews i had read about it, and i have to say it did not not disapoint!
We arrived at 2:30 in the morning but we were offered food and drink and a friendly reception.
The room was modern, comfortable and clean, but i did feel the air con could have been better as sometimes the room got very hot. Our room was on the 5th floor, it had an excellent view of the sea.
The food was very nice, a bit more variety wouldnt go amiss but we were happy with what was on offer - meats, veg, pasta dishes, salads, fruits etc etc.
The staff were very friendly, always greeting you with a smile and cracking jokes, nothing was too much trouble.
We left our children at home as it was our honeymoon, and i think that if you have kids then you might be better off finding a more kid friendly hotel as there wasnt really that much to do for them - having said that though the few kids we saw there were really well treated by the staff, and there is a small kids play area.
Whilst there we hired a car for a day from avis (45 euros) and drove up into the mountains. This was excellent, really good fun, but be warned some of the roads are very high up and narrow. Also watch out for rocks in the road - we clipped one and blew a tyre out..
The views from the top are well worth it though.
Overall the Riu Vistimar is a very relaxing comfortable place to spend a week or two. Im not one to go the same place twice but it wouldnt surprise me if we went back there again some time
We arrived at 2:30 in the morning but we were offered food and drink and a friendly reception.
The room was modern, comfortable and clean, but i did feel the air con could have been better as sometimes the room got very hot. Our room was on the 5th floor, it had an excellent view of the sea.
The food was very nice, a bit more variety wouldnt go amiss but we were happy with what was on offer - meats, veg, pasta dishes, salads, fruits etc etc.
The staff were very friendly, always greeting you with a smile and cracking jokes, nothing was too much trouble.
We left our children at home as it was our honeymoon, and i think that if you have kids then you might be better off finding a more kid friendly hotel as there wasnt really that much to do for them - having said that though the few kids we saw there were really well treated by the staff, and there is a small kids play area.
Whilst there we hired a car for a day from avis (45 euros) and drove up into the mountains. This was excellent, really good fun, but be warned some of the roads are very high up and narrow. Also watch out for rocks in the road - we clipped one and blew a tyre out..
The views from the top are well worth it though.
Overall the Riu Vistimar is a very relaxing comfortable place to spend a week or two. Im not one to go the same place twice but it wouldnt surprise me if we went back there again some time
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Cant fault the hotel at all , If your... "
Submitted By: Mrs V Crompton
Cant fault the hotel at all , If your planning on going there you will not be dissapointed by the hotel, it,s staff are fantastic the food was so unlimited varied too, on a couple of evenings we were served fillet steak, and it aint just snacks at lunch you can have a lovely meal, FOOD IS EXCELLENT AND THE DRINK OF COURSE !F YOU DONT OVER INDULDGE!YOU CANT POSSIBLEY ASK FOR MORE!the cleanliness of the rooms is a credit to the maids , they went the extra mile and made lovely towel made objects for our return in the afternoon after chillin and having everything I could ask for, courtsey bus to the beach a real advantage , a local crazy golf pitch became our walk of the day at the europa centre ,steep brew to get off hotels grounds but worth it !all staff were brill friendly and obligieng , but having a young teenage daughter who didnt seem to meet a friend of her own age wasnt really be friended or offerd company by the entertainment staff through the day or at night, had we been german or spanish I feel this would have been different, my 7 year old met friends which made her hol and ours so did my son , having stayed in an Iberostar hotel before Iwould say they took alittle more thought into entertainig our children,although by taking our hol there we met a fantastic family FROM ENGLAND which we shared a fab hol with, would revisit a riu hotel again because of the standards ,but always like to try somewhere new
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Cannot fault the hotel, the food was... "
Submitted By: Mr M Everett
Cannot fault the hotel, the food was superb and very varied. Most of the staff are very friendly and always smiling. The views from the hotel are breath taking it makes you feel like your on a cruise ship. The sun sets are amazing too. There was a few negative points though, the entertainment at night was absolutely rubbish, if you like 6 hotel entertainers miming to songs for at least 5 nights a week then you might enjoy it. They did have a few outside entertainers in to do shows which were good. i.e Beijing acrobats. The day time entertainment was the usual football, water polo, shooting etc, they didnt pester you if you said no which i thought was good. Being all inclusive was great for all the family, we have a 7 year old boy so he loved pop, burger, chips and ice cream all day. The good think was the self serve for soft drinks, beer and wine so no waiting in line at the pool bar unless you wanted a cocktail which were filled with very big measures of alcohol.
When we first arrived it was 2.30 in the morning and was greated with a smile and were asked if we wanted anything to eat or drink. Because of the late arrival we had breakfast about half nine (breakfast starts at 8.30), we tried to get sun loungers around the two pools but non were free, the hotel seems too big for the amount of sun loungers and space around the pools. So we had to be up early for breakfast and go straight to the pool to get loungers. It wasnt just the germans who camped out all night to get the best loungers but the spanish, be careful of the spanish they are so arrogant, loud and causing trouble, not the adults but the young children and the teenagers. So keep a weary eye if youve got young children. The situation of the hotel for views is exceptional but if your elderly or have a pushchair be aware that the short walk to the local europa center is steep, also there is no where to walk to if you fancy a stroll at night if your fed up of the entertainment like we was.
The hotel rooms were cleaned daily and were cleaned to a very high standard, ours was about 10 ish but speaking to other guests they said theirs was about 8 ish due to the amount of rooms, the cleaners are the hardest working people on the grounds.
Overall my view of the resort was excellent and to a very high standard.
Would i take my family here again............. NO, the reason being that we felt restricted to the hotel, there is very little around the hotel without getting a taxi.
One good thing was that the small percentage of british people while we were there seemed to click together, we met some very nice people.
When we first arrived it was 2.30 in the morning and was greated with a smile and were asked if we wanted anything to eat or drink. Because of the late arrival we had breakfast about half nine (breakfast starts at 8.30), we tried to get sun loungers around the two pools but non were free, the hotel seems too big for the amount of sun loungers and space around the pools. So we had to be up early for breakfast and go straight to the pool to get loungers. It wasnt just the germans who camped out all night to get the best loungers but the spanish, be careful of the spanish they are so arrogant, loud and causing trouble, not the adults but the young children and the teenagers. So keep a weary eye if youve got young children. The situation of the hotel for views is exceptional but if your elderly or have a pushchair be aware that the short walk to the local europa center is steep, also there is no where to walk to if you fancy a stroll at night if your fed up of the entertainment like we was.
The hotel rooms were cleaned daily and were cleaned to a very high standard, ours was about 10 ish but speaking to other guests they said theirs was about 8 ish due to the amount of rooms, the cleaners are the hardest working people on the grounds.
Overall my view of the resort was excellent and to a very high standard.
Would i take my family here again............. NO, the reason being that we felt restricted to the hotel, there is very little around the hotel without getting a taxi.
One good thing was that the small percentage of british people while we were there seemed to click together, we met some very nice people.
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" The Riu Vistamar is a lovely hotel... "
Submitted By: Mrs C McLean
The Riu Vistamar is a lovely hotel and all the rooms have exceptional views (no facing the bins or above reception as we have experienced in other hotels). You would have to be really fussy not to like the food on offer. I am vegetarian and there was always something to choose from however we only stayed for a week and it would probably be a bit repetitive if you stayed for a fortnight.
The entertainment team worked from morning to night and put on some good shows. The staff were all friendly and polite and the bedroom was very comfortable. The only problem with this hotel is - we knew it was on the cliff top - but no one explained that there is also an extremely steep hill up from the hotel. So you have to go up to the top of the hill to then go down to the beach etc. There is a courtesy bus but other than that we had to get taxi's everywhere as my husband could not cope with the uphill walk.
Playa Amadores is lovely but it is a new resort. Puerto Rico was horrendous very hilly and very dirty - would not recommend it to anyone.
I would recommend the hotel to anyone looking for a relaxing break around the hotel but beware that there are a lot of stairs in and around the complex.
The entertainment team worked from morning to night and put on some good shows. The staff were all friendly and polite and the bedroom was very comfortable. The only problem with this hotel is - we knew it was on the cliff top - but no one explained that there is also an extremely steep hill up from the hotel. So you have to go up to the top of the hill to then go down to the beach etc. There is a courtesy bus but other than that we had to get taxi's everywhere as my husband could not cope with the uphill walk.
Playa Amadores is lovely but it is a new resort. Puerto Rico was horrendous very hilly and very dirty - would not recommend it to anyone.
I would recommend the hotel to anyone looking for a relaxing break around the hotel but beware that there are a lot of stairs in and around the complex.
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Really good hotel, plenty for the... "
Submitted By: Mrs K Larsen
Really good hotel, plenty for the kids to do. Food was fantastic, entertainment great for the kids but not for adults. Wouldi go again..... I will try somewhere different I think.
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- Date of Holiday:Mar 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" just returned from vistamar, had a... "
Submitted By: Mrs J Pink
just returned from vistamar, had a cracking 2 weeks there. Weather was very hot. Food was excelent, and generally had a ball. My only complaint if I was to find one was that we had a 13 year old daughter with us and there was nothing through the day to keep her occupied as she was too old for the kids club, but not not old enought to take part in the adult games, Unfortunately this was probably due to the fact that there was not many teenagers in the hotel at this time. However she still thouroughly enjoyed herself. we howled at the entertainment staff whom I have to say never stopped... The only night of bad entertainment was a group from the seventies that should have starred in the Phoenix club!!!!!!!!!!! I would definately recommend this hotel to anyone who wants teriffic views, immaculate rooms, gorgeous food and generally good fun. I am not a peson who would normally return to a hotel ut on this occasion I might just make an exception.....
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- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" Have just returned from 2 weeks at... "
Submitted By: Mr A Baxter
Have just returned from 2 weeks at the RIU VISTIMAR and was very disappointed.
We have stayed at the Gloria Palace and the Cordial Mogan Playa in recent years and the RIU VISTIMAR is not in the same league.
From the minute you enter the Hotel foyer you realise this is not a 4* Hotel.
The rooms do have excellent views and are clean, however the air conditioning is sub-standard, I would hate to be in these rooms during the height of summer.
The Pool bar area serves food from early morning until late afternoon and the hygiene is very poor. This is the only bar open in the Hotel through the day and is very busy.
The Hotel Restaurant (Canteen) is huge and very cramped. There is a "special restaurant" in the Pool Bar at night, this involves sitting in the same chairs and tables at night as people have sat upon all day wearing swim wear and suntan cream. The food is still served at a buffet and is not great
Amadores is a lovely resort and I would highly recommend it, however there are far better Hotels in the area.
We have stayed at the Gloria Palace and the Cordial Mogan Playa in recent years and the RIU VISTIMAR is not in the same league.
From the minute you enter the Hotel foyer you realise this is not a 4* Hotel.
The rooms do have excellent views and are clean, however the air conditioning is sub-standard, I would hate to be in these rooms during the height of summer.
The Pool bar area serves food from early morning until late afternoon and the hygiene is very poor. This is the only bar open in the Hotel through the day and is very busy.
The Hotel Restaurant (Canteen) is huge and very cramped. There is a "special restaurant" in the Pool Bar at night, this involves sitting in the same chairs and tables at night as people have sat upon all day wearing swim wear and suntan cream. The food is still served at a buffet and is not great
Amadores is a lovely resort and I would highly recommend it, however there are far better Hotels in the area.
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- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We stayed at this hotel for 1 week as... "
Submitted By: Mrs S Hulmes
We stayed at this hotel for 1 week as a late deal - we wanted to book somewhere all inclusive however a 4 star hotel. after hours looking on the internet we finally decided on the riu vistamar and booked as a couple.
we booked with thomson mainly as we needed a flight thursday to thursday. i dont think i would travel with thomson again as compared to first choice etc they were much better. the flight was not as good as we have had having no tv in front of chair having to buy all drinks on board and also the seats were not as comfy.
once we got there the transfer was fine although the rep didnt travel with us which i thought they would do. we had to go round all other hotels before reaching the vistamar which took about 1hr 20 mins.
when we arrived we were greeted with very firendly staff who gave us our room details and a bottle of water to take to rooms. there were 7 floors for rooms, 8th floor was reception and 9th floor pool. as the hotel is set on a cliff this was the reason for this layout. we needed to take the lifts down - 3 lifts on either side of the hotel - very busy and always in use.
ROOM
When we arrived at our room it was lovely very clean and tidy just as it is advertised on the riu vistamar website. the bed was huge - some say the bed was hard - admittedly it wasnot as soft as our own at home but we both found it fine and easy in sleep in. extra bedding is prvided in the cupboards should you need any or extra cushions or pillows. there was also a safe deposit box which we used every day and was useful - free too.
there was satellite tv although the only english channel we could get was sky news. there was also a mini fridge where you could store drinks and the water you got from reception where you could get as much as you liked. we also put our aftersun in there to chill. the view and balcony were lovely fresh sea area every day and a view of the ocean - it really was lovely.
air conditioning with fan was also in room should you want to use this.
the bathroom was spacious - fresh towels every day which there made into swans on the bed when you would go back to the room. the room was cleaned daily and the maids were friendly. you do need to use your dont disturb signs as a couple of days we wanted a lie in and were woken at 9 in the morning.
STAFF
Very very friendly - would always take a picture for you and always wanted to make sure you were having a good holiday.
FOOD
Quite nice - lots of variety to chose from. there were two seatings one at 6.30 and one at 8.30.you could help yourself to as much as you wanted. also specials nights at the pool side available although you had to book early to get in - the night we wanted to go it was all booked up therefore we never got to go.
breakfast was nice - something for each nationality - you could also make your own toast. Drinks - choice of fresh juices - the glasses were a little of the small side as we needed to get a couple rather than just one glass.
if you got up late you could have breakfast at the pool bar.
lunch we ate mainly at pool side - salads, pasta, pizza, burgers etc. we had lunch one day in the main restaurant - not as much choice similar things salads, meat option and veg.
Tea plenty of choice and fresh fruit galore. fresh soups every day and fresh breads. there was only one night we didnt fancy it and this was due to it being all fish and seafood and not fancying burgers etc so we went up to the local shopping centre and ate out this night in a place called barbacoa - really nice food and quite english. my husband wanted to watch his football team one night so we also watched this there on sky sports.
In the restaurant the only thing was all the tables were right next to each other so felt as though you werent just having a meal with your husband but with another family. we were unfortunate to have a German family sat next to us for three days and made us feel quite uncomfortable as watched everything we ate and made no effort to move their chair in when wanted to get past. we found the Germans to also be very arrogant and rude and only concerned with themselves.
DRINKS
AS much as you wanted to drink. All very nice. cocktails werent made up fresh but still nice. you could also serve yourself if you didnt want to go to the bar. Fresh ice available. Only downside was pool side cups we washable plastic cups not the best - throw away cups would have been better.
POOL
The two pools were gorgeous - we went to the top pool and most of the time we would have the pool to ourselves and the view over the waterfall was magnificent. there were always sun beds availalbe what ever time of day you went and free daily towels were provided. very peaceful and relaxing.
ENTERTAINMENT
The entertainment in the day was good lots of choice and no pressure to join in if you didnt want to. there was a kids club - we dont have kids so didnt need to use this. also internet cafe and hairdressers which does manicures and massage if you wanted it.
Evening entertainment was good - started about 9.30 each night and was a different act each night in the bar. Very entertaining.
TRIPS OUT
we decided to only do one trip as we were on a budget holiday so we chose to go to garbo's dinner show on the last night -this was the best idea as the holiday went out with a bang and was a fantastic night. coach picked us up at 6.30 and we got there and sat on a gold table having paid little bit extra to have close table to stage. it was a three course meal having our own singing waitress. thorughout the night there sung classics and put on a cinderella show - absolutely fantastic and would highly recommend. we drunk alcohol all night having paid in price as as much as we wanted - we really enjoyed this night out. Only downer was again the rep escorted us on coach to the venue however didnt do this on the way back.
LOCATION
Situated on cliff top - absolutely lovely view - just very steep for elderly or those with push chairs.
WEATHER
Very hot - have come home with a nice tan.
OVERALL
Our holiday was really good and we will definately go back to Gran Caneria and maybe even this hotel as it was that good. i am just the sort of person to like visiting new places and hotels which is the only reason i say this.
we booked with thomson mainly as we needed a flight thursday to thursday. i dont think i would travel with thomson again as compared to first choice etc they were much better. the flight was not as good as we have had having no tv in front of chair having to buy all drinks on board and also the seats were not as comfy.
once we got there the transfer was fine although the rep didnt travel with us which i thought they would do. we had to go round all other hotels before reaching the vistamar which took about 1hr 20 mins.
when we arrived we were greeted with very firendly staff who gave us our room details and a bottle of water to take to rooms. there were 7 floors for rooms, 8th floor was reception and 9th floor pool. as the hotel is set on a cliff this was the reason for this layout. we needed to take the lifts down - 3 lifts on either side of the hotel - very busy and always in use.
ROOM
When we arrived at our room it was lovely very clean and tidy just as it is advertised on the riu vistamar website. the bed was huge - some say the bed was hard - admittedly it wasnot as soft as our own at home but we both found it fine and easy in sleep in. extra bedding is prvided in the cupboards should you need any or extra cushions or pillows. there was also a safe deposit box which we used every day and was useful - free too.
there was satellite tv although the only english channel we could get was sky news. there was also a mini fridge where you could store drinks and the water you got from reception where you could get as much as you liked. we also put our aftersun in there to chill. the view and balcony were lovely fresh sea area every day and a view of the ocean - it really was lovely.
air conditioning with fan was also in room should you want to use this.
the bathroom was spacious - fresh towels every day which there made into swans on the bed when you would go back to the room. the room was cleaned daily and the maids were friendly. you do need to use your dont disturb signs as a couple of days we wanted a lie in and were woken at 9 in the morning.
STAFF
Very very friendly - would always take a picture for you and always wanted to make sure you were having a good holiday.
FOOD
Quite nice - lots of variety to chose from. there were two seatings one at 6.30 and one at 8.30.you could help yourself to as much as you wanted. also specials nights at the pool side available although you had to book early to get in - the night we wanted to go it was all booked up therefore we never got to go.
breakfast was nice - something for each nationality - you could also make your own toast. Drinks - choice of fresh juices - the glasses were a little of the small side as we needed to get a couple rather than just one glass.
if you got up late you could have breakfast at the pool bar.
lunch we ate mainly at pool side - salads, pasta, pizza, burgers etc. we had lunch one day in the main restaurant - not as much choice similar things salads, meat option and veg.
Tea plenty of choice and fresh fruit galore. fresh soups every day and fresh breads. there was only one night we didnt fancy it and this was due to it being all fish and seafood and not fancying burgers etc so we went up to the local shopping centre and ate out this night in a place called barbacoa - really nice food and quite english. my husband wanted to watch his football team one night so we also watched this there on sky sports.
In the restaurant the only thing was all the tables were right next to each other so felt as though you werent just having a meal with your husband but with another family. we were unfortunate to have a German family sat next to us for three days and made us feel quite uncomfortable as watched everything we ate and made no effort to move their chair in when wanted to get past. we found the Germans to also be very arrogant and rude and only concerned with themselves.
DRINKS
AS much as you wanted to drink. All very nice. cocktails werent made up fresh but still nice. you could also serve yourself if you didnt want to go to the bar. Fresh ice available. Only downside was pool side cups we washable plastic cups not the best - throw away cups would have been better.
POOL
The two pools were gorgeous - we went to the top pool and most of the time we would have the pool to ourselves and the view over the waterfall was magnificent. there were always sun beds availalbe what ever time of day you went and free daily towels were provided. very peaceful and relaxing.
ENTERTAINMENT
The entertainment in the day was good lots of choice and no pressure to join in if you didnt want to. there was a kids club - we dont have kids so didnt need to use this. also internet cafe and hairdressers which does manicures and massage if you wanted it.
Evening entertainment was good - started about 9.30 each night and was a different act each night in the bar. Very entertaining.
TRIPS OUT
we decided to only do one trip as we were on a budget holiday so we chose to go to garbo's dinner show on the last night -this was the best idea as the holiday went out with a bang and was a fantastic night. coach picked us up at 6.30 and we got there and sat on a gold table having paid little bit extra to have close table to stage. it was a three course meal having our own singing waitress. thorughout the night there sung classics and put on a cinderella show - absolutely fantastic and would highly recommend. we drunk alcohol all night having paid in price as as much as we wanted - we really enjoyed this night out. Only downer was again the rep escorted us on coach to the venue however didnt do this on the way back.
LOCATION
Situated on cliff top - absolutely lovely view - just very steep for elderly or those with push chairs.
WEATHER
Very hot - have come home with a nice tan.
OVERALL
Our holiday was really good and we will definately go back to Gran Caneria and maybe even this hotel as it was that good. i am just the sort of person to like visiting new places and hotels which is the only reason i say this.
-
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" My family and I have just returned... "
Submitted By: Miss M M Mulholland
My family and I have just returned from a week's stay at the riu vistimar, Great Hotel i.e. Food excellent,Staff very helpfull,day/evening entertainment not great, but the staff do try.great views,we could see the gloria palace hotel(another great hotel)Excursions,book the Island Delights Tour-it was a brilliant day.Although a little nerve racking,(the heights).Places to see, Port of Morgan(little Venice)Quiet relaxing place.very happy memories. Maureen,from Nottingham.
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- Date of Holiday:Mar 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Have just had a fantastic time at the... "
Submitted By: Mrs B.J. Webster
Have just had a fantastic time at the riu vistamar. The weather could not have been better and the hotel was superb. We are a married couple in our fifties,on holiday for our birthdays and some chilling time in the sun. We certainly got that. There was no need to go out of the hotel as everything was so good. Fabulous food and great drinks. The staff were very friendly and enjoyed a chat with you if they had the time whilst serving behind the bar. We have been to Gran Canaria 4times now and this is the best hotel we have stayed in, having stayed last year at the Gloria Palace. The rooms at the vistamar are a good size with comfortable beds and are cleaned daily with change of towels daily. There are pool towels available and are changed daily and there is no need to reserve sunbeds there are plenty to go round and the hotel was relatively busy. The meal times are set at 6.30 and 8.30pm and a table is assigned to you for your evening meal. You can sit anywhere at breakfast. If you want to change your allocated time of dining then this done through the head waiter.
We had a basket of fruit and half bottle of sherry delivered to the room on my birthday and at the dinner table there was candle and the waiters wished me happy birthday. This had not been organised beforehand.
From reception you could get bottles of water through the all inclusive deal, the first time I've seen that. There is a fridge in the room so you can keep it cold.
We didn't use the shuttle bus down to the beach, but there is one that runs every half hour to the beach and back.
All in all a very relaxing and good value for money holiday and we will definitely be returning next year.
We had a basket of fruit and half bottle of sherry delivered to the room on my birthday and at the dinner table there was candle and the waiters wished me happy birthday. This had not been organised beforehand.
From reception you could get bottles of water through the all inclusive deal, the first time I've seen that. There is a fridge in the room so you can keep it cold.
We didn't use the shuttle bus down to the beach, but there is one that runs every half hour to the beach and back.
All in all a very relaxing and good value for money holiday and we will definitely be returning next year.
-
- Date of Holiday:Feb 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
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Best things about the holiday:
- Choice of food
- Weather
- Views from hotel
- Atmosphere and cleanliness of hotel
- Basically everything
Worst things about the holiday:
- NOTHING
Advice: Gorgeous
Activities: The Beach
Good for: Beach