Reviews of Rio Park Hotel, Benidorm, Spain

Hi,
This was a good...

Overall Rating:

8/10

Board Basis:

Full Board

Date of Holiday:

Jan 2008

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

president

Comments:

Hi,

This was a good holiday and the first one i've spent on mainland spain.

The hotel Rio Park was fine, weather good when the sun had been up for a while.

Would recommend this hotel for all round general value and most amusing staff entertaiment in the evening.

there were many interesting trips to go on each day.

The beach and promenade were both kept to a good standard of cleanliness

with many bars and hotels in which you could relax for a coffee or beer.

At the far end of the promenade there is the old town which is quite hilly but has lots of small bars and restaurants.

So summing up I would say that whilst the area is largely built up with many hotel tower blocks and more being built as we speak, it represents good value and I will be

visiting again this year.

Staying at Rio Park for...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Full Board

Date of Holiday:

Dec 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

lee saeed

Comments:

Staying at Rio Park for Christmas and New Year was just amazing. The hotel was all decorated and they do parties for the main even (Christmas and New Year) plus they do a variety of foods which all taste and look really good.



The chef is a great cook which me, my sister, and my dad all enjoyed. The people who work in the restaurant are all very helpful and friendly, they sure recognised our faces when they saw us :) some of the people who do a very good job in the restaurant are Santiago, Juan, Jesus, Pepe (unfortunately he wasn't here when we arrived) Zahid, Hussain, Ilyas, Yunas, plus every other staff that works there, I can't remember their names :o but each one of them do great jobs in cleaning the tables, putting the food out, cleaning, making sure that everyone gets food.



Next the main bar is a great place to be too, it has a lot of space and the drinks are reasonably priced, the staff there are also very friendly and you can get on with them really well, they are very good at their jobs and are always there for you if you need them, some of the staff like Jose Sierra, Jose Luis (he no longer works at Rio anymore though) Saeed, Pedro Martinez, Miguel Angel, Ahmed, Pedro, Francisco, Manuel, Martin and anybody who’s name I have forgotten to put, are all funny and you can become friends with them all :) they all do good jobs at cleaning, serving drinks, collecting glasses and even other problems that may occur, they do not mind giving a helping hand.



There is also an outside bar which is located by the pool area which isn't open during the winter because it can get quite cold, however it does open for special occasions which include Christmas and New Year where hat bar is open and you can go and get free drinks, you can only get free drinks when you go and collect vouchers from the reception area. It is open during the summer where it is really hot and you could really do with a drink :p Also during the summer there is a Tapas bar called Crispy Bite, where whenever you purchase a drink you get a tapas, in which you can get a range of food. There is also another bar, well pub, it is called the Pop-In-Pub which is just run by one man, he is called Paco and he is very friendly, he also never forgets you or what drinks you have, he does work very hard in the pub. He gets on well with everyone. The Pop-In-Pub is for smokers, whereas the other bars are for non-smokers, everyone is welcome to go into these bars, and the pub, whatever takes your fancy.



If you have any problems or want to know about anything then the reception area is where you need to go, it is located just in-front of you as you enter the hotel itself. The people who work there are always there to help with whatever you may need and if you want they can also look after items for you for safe keeping. They always have a smile on their faces, they are friendly, they do their jobs well, and they are always there for you whenever you need them.



There is also a security guard who works mostly at night, he checks every room (the bars, the reception area, outside and just the main rooms that are on the bottom floor) this is just to make sure that there isn't any trouble. They are also there if you need them, they don't just not bother helping, they are there for you whenever. Their job as making sure that everything is secure and safe is done very well.



There is also a team of reps at the hotel are there most of the time every day, so you can book up different daytime trips with them, there is also a free trip in which everyone can attend to if they want to, it is called the Blanket Trip, which I have heard it is quite good. When you book up any trips you can acquire a free packed lunch where you have a different variety of food and drinks provided for you. The reps do a good job and can be helpful :)



The cleaners do an excellent job at making sure that the whole hotel is spotless, they clean every room in the hotel, they put everything in the right places so that you know where everything is, they put down new bed sheets, pillows, towels, toilet paper every day and they make sure that each room is cleaned properly. They do work very hard each day and they should get a lot of credit for the amount of work they do.



The maintenance people are around a lot, they fix things that are broken and they just basically take care of the hotel, they do work hard every day, they never disturb you they just get on with their jobs. Sometimes they do help with other things like helping out in the restaurant, the entertainment and even Pedro (who works in the bar) does the maintenance jobs too, they all work very hard and do great jobs.



There is also plenty of entertainment in the hotel especially during the night, there is show which involve members of the staff taking part which is very funny and enjoyable to watch, there is also disco's that are on after the shows, there is also acts that come in before and after the shows and there is also karaoke's which are fun because everyone who signs gets a prize (drinks, t-shirts, etc) :p



So, you should come to Rio Park because there is something for everyone, the hotel as a whole is excellent, and you will love everything that is there. The main person behind all of the success that it has had is Jose M, he is the manager of this hotel and he is so friendly and can get along with anyone at all, he also gets involved in things like the staff shows and also sometimes helps with the restaurant, making sure that everyone gets in. He is a great man and has the perfect staff working with him :)



The hotel itself is perfect for any age, it has everything you could ever need, a friendly atmosphere, great food and drinks, entertainment, staff and rooms. There is something about Rio Park that brings people back again and again. That is why you should go to Rio because I guarantee you that you would want to go again :) We have been going to this hotel since 2001, we have been there about 7 or 8 times and we are going to return hopefully 2 more times during this year, we are definitely going to be there for Christmas and New Year again, it’s just fantastic. Every single person that works there are a lot about the guests that stay at the hotel, there has been also even more changes to the hotel, which include a sliding door at the entrance for easier access, there is also more space so people can get around easier, like people in wheelchairs, it makes things much simpler :)



The resort itself is a beautiful place and you will really enjoy staying here, there is loads of things to do and everything to do with Benidorm is lovely, it's a great place and everyone should go there, you will not be disappointed :)



Benidorm and Rio Park are like a second home to us, we love it so much :D

My partner and I have been twice...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Full Board

Date of Holiday:

Apr 2007

Tour Operator:

Booked Independently

Submitted By:

Mr D A  Randall

Comments:

My partner and I have been twice this year to the Rio Park and off again for two weeks in Dec.



Hotel is really clean, food is good and plenty of it.



Pool is large and plenty of sunbeds, quality entertainment by the staff. Staff are helpful.



Plenty of entertainment nearby. Would recommend to anyone.

I can honestly say this was the...

Overall Rating:

9/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Jun 2005

Tour Operator:

Thomas Cook

Submitted By:

Miss S Morris

Comments:

I can honestly say this was the best hotel I have ever stayed in. My partner and I have been abroad a few times since staying in the Rio Park and not one of those hotels matched up to the Rio.



The staff are lovely and there is a good variety when it comes to the food on offer. Situated at a reasonable distance to amenities and the beach, this hotel is perfect for families, couples, and singles alike. Hence the reason we have rebooked for June/July 2008.

This is my 1st time to stay in a...

Overall Rating:

9/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Feb 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Mrs D Base

Comments:

This is my 1st time to stay in a 2* hotel in Benidorm and did not expect much at all.



But my expectations were exceeded. The hotel was almost perfect. Okay there were some downers on the hotel. But most were positive things.



For example the pool was not that big, but that is about it really.



Staff were kind, polite, and VERY helpful. Rooms cleaned on a regular basis and to a high standard which impressed me!!!



And if you want to get out of the hotel for the day, there were always plenty of things to keep you and the kids occupied.Beech near-ish. Cafe's and places to eat loads are close to hotel. Bars close too. The clubs are a quick taxi ride... but worth it... I had great night out... Everyone was so nice.



But yes, if you looking for a BARGAIN hotel... This hotel is definitely a MUST!!! Nearing on perfection... And for a 2* hotel... You can't expect much more... Great- 9/10.

We all enjoyed the holiday. The...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Full Board

Date of Holiday:

Sep 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

the batley crew

Comments:

We all enjoyed the holiday. The hotel was brill. The meals were top class.



Can't grumble about anything, entertainment was a little poor but we made the best of our hols.



Would recommend this hotel to anybody.

10/10. Nuff said!

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Aug 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Miss H Randall

Comments:

10/10. Nuff said!

Absolutely immaculate hotel... very friendly staff at reception and at meal times! Security very patient especially at 3 in the morning when we couldn’t remember if we'd put our room key in reception!



Pool area fabulous, plenty of sun beds at all times, never had to battle 4 1! Food lush at all times didn't go hungry once!



Thomson reps amazing. Lee (Minty) and James (Bash) were amazing in the hotel. Very friendly and talkative at all times! Nothing was too much hassle for them!

Bash was the best!



Would recommend this hotel to anyone! 2nd time I'd been there in 6 weeks, that’s how good it was!!

The Rio Park is a good choice...

Overall Rating:

8/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Aug 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Mr A Mcfadyean

Comments:

The Rio Park is a good choice hotel this was our first Thomson holiday and we very much enjoyed it.



The food was of a good standard and there was a reasonable selection on offer, staff were excellent and friendly. Room’s basic and clean maid services were good.



As we were on the first floor over the drop in bar the only complaint would be the pool table directly underneath being used at 1 2 3&4 in the morning a bit much other than that the hotel was good.



Benidorm is I would say the Blackpool of the Costa Brava, the hotel is also on an area known as the yellow brick road which runs down to the beach and central area of shops ect OK going down but a climb on the way back OK for those of a young and energetic nature but older people may struggle a bit.



Be aware of not time share touts but those good old scratch card people they want you for a couple of hours to try and sell you a holiday club time thing if you go be advised it has starting prices from nearly £3,000 for 5 years £5,000 for 5 years and £7,000 for lifetime plus a cash back thing of your money back in 59months provided you apply when the 59 months is up all in all steer clear but as usual they are very persistent. So my best advice is tell them a flat NO NO THANKS.

Late deal, wanted 3 stars, hol...

Overall Rating:

6/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Aug 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Mrs L Copson

Comments:

Late deal, wanted 3 stars, hol was allocated on arrival. Arrived at hotel 4.00am approx, reception area looked awfully glum, unwelcoming, got taken to our room, lock on door wouldn’t work, took security guard 40 min to fix.



Room was small adequately furnished, small bathroom, however it was clean. In the morning our view was of a building site and also there was no soundproofing between the bedrooms, it was as though the people next door were actually in our room, we could make out everything they said!



However my daughter and I were pleasantly surprised at the lovely pool, bar area and all the entertainment that the hotel staff laid on, including the weekly staff show which was hilarious.



The staff also have bingo for guests each night with small prizes and as you didn’t pay for your tickets, it was great value.



The food was very good, there was plenty of choice and the service was fast and efficient (downside you had to pay for your drinks in the restaurant, which wasn’t cheap!) We were there for two weeks and the most major problem was the soundproofing so take ear plugs.



Saying that the staff are lovely, the foods good, entertainment is good. It really is a shame that the noise let the hotel down. the rep advised us that it was a recently refurbished hotel and it did look modern and up-to-date. But noise!



By the way if you do go, pop into the Cheap and cheerful bar/cafe just a few yards from the hotel, it really is cheap and cheerful and the foods good, the drinks are really cheap!! We would go back but only with a good supply of earplugs or considerate neighbours!

When me and my family go we stay...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Self Catering

Date of Holiday:

May 2005

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Other L Durkin

Comments:

When me and my family go we stay at relations so although we didn’t stay in the Rio we visited it quite allot through out our 2 week holiday in Benidorm. The Restaurants are amazing. So much choice of food. Plenty to do for children through out the day and night. Also allot to do for adults.



The Rio is very central to the main 'square' of Benidorm.



The staff at the Rio are very friendly. Ranging from the reception to the chambermaids to the bar men/women right to the entertainers.



Well I don’t really know about the cleanliness of the rooms because we haven’t stayed there but the restaurants meeting areas and facilities are of very high standard!



Great hotel!

We stopped at the hotel a good...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Aug 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Mr A Scott

Comments:

We stopped at the hotel a good few years ago and it was great, bin to Benidorm several times but this time we decided to go to Rio park again as it has been done up.



When we walked in we was worried about been high up but we where on the 4th floor so we was very happy.



We arrived quite late Sunday night. So we put our cases up and went for dinner we just got there. The food was amazing there was a very big choice and there was something for everyone. It was the first hotel I have bin to that you don’t have to make your own toast it is been made for you and there is plenty out.



The rooms where amazing and the best air con ever. We had to turn it off in the night it got that cold.



I would advise anyone to go. Also the pool is very big. The hotel also has a shop and offers lilos and presents for family. It also has sky sports channel playing in the English pub called pop in pup you can also pay 15 euro for a remote and then in your room you get sky sports. You get the 15 euro back.

Stayed at the Rio Park on a last...

Overall Rating:

9/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Jul 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Ms A Wardman

Comments:

Stayed at the Rio Park on a last minute holiday for a week. Was not disappointed. It’s a really lovely Hotel.



Really clean, rooms nice, maids came every day. The staff are just fantastic, nothing is too much trouble.



Food was superb, so much choice and boy did we sample it all.



Entertainment on every night but we didn’t stay in. Happy hour 3 x week. Bar area looked a bit like a cafe, but it was pleasant.



Good location near enough to walk to the bars ( so many to choose from!) and we didn’t get pestered too much by PA`s. All the bars have entertainment on. Albi Senior is hilarious.



Some nice bars in the Levante and sitting in Benidorm Palace people watching was entertaining!!



My first time in Benidorm and yes it is a Sunny Blackpool , but we really had a great time and the Hotel guest keep returning year after year and I can see why.



Its great value and so friendly. I would definitely go back again.

I recently spent a long weekend...

Overall Rating:

8/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Jul 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Ms M Orisan

Comments:

I recently spent a long weekend in Benidorm staying at the Rio Park. The hotel is quite central, a five minute walk to the main bars and beach area.



On arriving at the hotel I was impressed at how modern and clean the hotel was. The lobby area has plenty of leather couches and is bright and area.



Checking in was easy and pain free. My keys were ready, staff were polite, and it was all over within seconds... Perfect!



Travelling alone I had booked a single room and my only disappointment being that there was no balcony. the room itself was small but modern, clean and comfortable. The bath and shower were in an odd position and had I been over weight or not fully mobile I would have struggled. The room was cleaned every morning and new towels were provided.



The hotel has three bar areas and extensive lounges. Entertainment is provided every night including staff cabaret style shows. I didn’t hang around for these but on speaking with other guests seemed quite popular.



I'm a sun worshipper and the sun terraces and pool area at the Rio Park did not disappoint. Being a family hotel the pool area could get rather lively but an alternative terrace area with more sun loungers is available above on what I can only describe as an ultimate sun trap! There are plenty of sun loungers, tables, and chairs and like the rest of the hotel the pool and sun terraces were kept spotlessly clean at all times.



Snacks are available at a reasonable price all day at the bar, a full pizza costing only 6 Euros. The bar snacks were really tasty and ideal for lunch or late night snacking. The food option at the Rio park was half board and a buffet for both lunch and dinner. Our rep had told us that our hotel had the best reputation for food in Benidorm and I can understand why.



There was always plenty of fresh food of all varieties to suit all tastes. I'm vegan and try to avoid wheat and I can honestly say I found plenty to eat. the buffet was extensive and I often left the restaurant totally stuffed, worried I wouldn’t fit in my bikini the next day!



Overall I loved the Rio Park. It wasn’t plush but it was modern, spotlessly clean and the food was spot on. I would recommend the hotel to singles, couples and families and those wanting to be close enough to the action but also far enough away to retreat!



Highly recommended.

Stayed at Rio park with my...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Jul 2007

Tour Operator:

Thomson

Submitted By:

Mr D Murphy

Comments:

Stayed at Rio park with my partner and my 11year old son, on arriving at the hotel the staff were very friendly, we were on the 12th floor which we did ask for a low floor has my partner doesn’t like heights, had a word with reception who was gladly going to move us but the hotel was full.



We arrived on Tuesday and was told we would be moved on Thursday morning for the inconvenience we was given a bottle of brandy and chocolates, the room was big enough for 2 adults and 1 child has my son is big for his age.



The food was fantastic it was buffet style we enjoyed everything we didn’t have a complaint at all, the maid came every day changed the towels and new loo rolls if you were still in your room she would call back later our room was never left untidy, all the reception staff were great couldn’t help us enough.



This hotel is highly maintained and I would strongly recommend it to everyone thinking of going to Benidorm, I shall be returning in the near future and I will be staying at the Rio park, this hotel should be 4 star its fantastic!

Have just returned from the Rio...

Overall Rating:

10/10

Board Basis:

Half Board

Date of Holiday:

Jul 2007

Tour Operator:

Lastminute

Submitted By:

Mr R PEARSON

Comments:

Have just returned from the Rio Park yesterday and I must say it is a cracking hotel, very clean, staff are friendly, food is great and there is plenty of things to do in the hotel.

My two kids loved it (one is 18!) it has a nice pool with 3 sections, 7 pool tables, internet room, and English pub. The rooms are very clean with TV and air conditioning.



My only concern when we arrived was we were on the twelve floor and I thought it might be a problem with lifts, but there was no problem at all as there are five.



I have stayed at this hotel before in 1994 and it was good then, it has certainly got better and I would recommend it to anyone. It says there is building work going on at the back of the hotel but never heard a thing.



Also if looking for a Thomson holiday look on lastminute.com as this is owned by Thomson’s and the hols are all a fair bit cheaper, than their own web site.