Timesharetalk Forum - Resort Write-Up - (Resorts G to M)

Island Village, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

lynnielew@timesharetalk.co.uk — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 22:51:08 +0100

There are 8 replies, with the last one on 13/11/2008 at 22:51:08 by lynnielew
Quote:
sorry to not get back earlier, but yes you can rent out yourself, you own the weeks so if you own fri to fri you only come and go on fridays, annual maintenace this year 2009 for a two bed is 486 euro, it must now be paid in euros and you pay all bank charges. I would say depending on how fast you walk and how able bodied you are the walk to the beach is 15-30 minutes. Break-ins do occur but they do anywhere even in this country - my advise just be vigilent and dont leave doors/windows open when in the garden or asleep and leave lights and music/television on when out to give the appearance of someone being in. Good luck and if you have bought already i am sure you will have many years of happy holidays at the village.

Garden Lago DRI Majorca

daveandmaureen@timesharetalk.co.uk — Wed, 14 May 2008 22:44:01 +0100

Resort Report
Garden Lago 19th to 26th April 2008
2 Bed Family Apartment 462
Guests 3 aged 58, 58 and 82

We have stayed at GL twice before in 2004 and 2005 and I thought it would be interesting to include in this report my thoughts on how the destination has changed now that we are DRI rather than S-unterra. The short answer no appreciable changes whatsoever. The staff were superb especially Reception who are a credit to Helen Smith the Resort Manager but the staff were great before anyway.

WE had the identical Apartment in July 2005 (I asked for 462 and we got precisely what we asked for, but this also happened under S-unterra). Changes were few and all were superficial. The fridge magnet is now DRI and one or two wall hangings (pictures) have been updated. The only appreciable change was the fitting of a Quadrant breakfast bar in the previously empty corner of the Kitchen which was crying out for such an item three years ago.

General comments, I have to give a special award to the Garden Lago April 2008 �Welcome Meeting� it was without doubt the worst we have ever attended. The contributors Scott & Jamie the �Entertainments Team� were hopeless! They are both very enthusiastic and were far better at their other duties of daily quiz compliers and comperes for the evening entertainments. Their welcome meeting was embarrassing with minimal information, thankfully only a passing mention of the Reps (who were lurking nearby) but did not even attempt to speak to the assembled throng. Almost nothing about the area, possible excursions etc etc just numerous references to the fact that the weather would improve (they got that bit right because it did indeed improve).

The best bit of the Welcome Meeting was the complimentary glass of sangria which appreciably less watered down than some freebie drinks tasters I have enjoyed (endured) in the past. Drinks courtesy of the Bar & Restaurant franchisee a very pleasant Argentinian gent called Eduardo. When were previously at GL it was �between restaurant franchisees� so no on site bar even. Eduardo�s bar and restaurant was very well ran and we ate there on Thursday night, we each had something different and empty plates (after we had finished) were an indication of how good the food was. Not really more expensive than decent eateries in the vicinity of GL and appreciably cheaper than some up market venues in the Old Town. Well done Eduardo!

Weather during our week improved with each day that passed, by Monday the occasional showers had disappeared and by Tuesday the strong breeze had died away and temperatures in the 20s had become the norm very pleasant indeed.

Our hire car was ordered thro Carjet and you do not know which firm is being used until the end of the booking. We ordered a 4 door Clio with A/C and were upgraded free to a Peugeot 307 A/C, even though there were only three of us the bit of extra legroom was much appreciated. The downside Sol-Mar the Hire firm are not based at the Airport so there was a time-consuming wait whilst the mini-bus arrived to take us to Sol-Mars compound five minutes away (the flight was a fairly late evening arrival).

WE used the car to good effect and travelled over 750 kms during the week and saw every corner of Majorca except the South West. Highlights were the train (caught at Bunyola) ride to Soller and the Tram to Puerto Soller. A visit to La Granja the Majorcan equivalent of a National Trust property, very interesting and the views from the Santuari de Sant Salvador which now has a modern caf� and hotel rooms, right next to the Monastery.

The ambiance of the Resort was spoilt a little by under occupation and Scott (see above) suggested the resort was only 70-80% full. I queried why more weeks did not appear on the 59 day pages in my end of week comment sheet and Helen Smith e-mailed me back in the UK a few days after were arrived back home to advise the empty apartments were �No Show� fixed week owners.

We would not hesitate to return to Madjorca in April in the future. This brings me to a strange thing which happens in Majorca in April. I have never seen so many cyclists, the roads were awash with them and they seem to travel to different points on the island to �enjoy� the different climbs up to the high points (including the Santuari mentioned above which is some climb in a car). Some of the cyclists were actually staying at Garden Lago, travelling down in the lift with a fifty something bloke in pale blue lycra complete with his racing bike is certainly a first for me!

So there you have Majorca in April, more lycra than in 10 Ann Summers shops, pleasant weather, but as of yet no major changes around the resort. I do not say the last bit critically, our previous visits to GL were both great so perhaps it�s hard to improve on something which is already brilliant.

Cheers

Dave King

Marriott Marbella Beach Club, Spain

neiltilley@timesharetalk.co.uk — Wed, 14 May 2008 22:40:50 +0100

There are 1 replies, with the last one on 14/05/2008 at 22:40:50 by neiltilley
Quote:
I just wanted to lastly add a bit after reading bossmans write up on the resort which is far superior than my own write up. Anyone who hasn't been to a Marriott 'timeshare' ownership resort SHOULD GO!!!
They are well done and I want to ensure my partly negative write up isn't meant to be detrimental except to say watch them prices as beer seriously was 4.90 euros but nike beach worse at 8.90 euros a bottle. But just up the beach was 2.40 euros one bar being 2 euros dead. Wherever you go the service is good, fish is best anywhere and at Marriott. The pools, spa and general relaxing elements at Marriott were second to none. It was amazing- but I'm an Africa lover at heart. I reccomend the extravagance at least once in a life time. If you are considerably richer than me then you may not feel the cost so much as I. After all sixteen grand for silver time and $872 dollars maintainence fees annually for a one bedroom worried me. They do a rewards system and I'm sure the way you can play with your holiday taking 4 days and saving 3 or converting to points, banking and getting other purchases such as flights and one night at an alternative Marriott hotel or car hire seriously looks like a great idea that works for the fun Americans we met that own in Aruba.

MacDonalds Dona Lola Calahonda

keever@timesharetalk.co.uk — Sun, 11 May 2008 15:34:26 +0100

MacDonald Dona Lola
Calahonda
Costa del Sol
Spain

Exchanged through Dial an Exchange

2 adults 1 child aged 2/3 (she had her 3rd birthday in Spain)

From 26th April 2008 � 3rd May 2008

Pictures available in the gallery link under Keever pics

Our flight arrived in Malaga at around 1pm and after a very quick hire car pick up we headed down the coast to Calahonda.

Check in at Dona Lola is 5 pm but we arrived shortly after 2pm and the apartment was ready for us, check in was swift and took no longer than 5 mins with the usual forms requiring to be filled in.We had been allocated Diana 202 which is beachfront 1 bed 1 bathroom apartment and was directly adjacent to the steps that led to the beach.

I had read various other resort reviews that steps were a problem in the resort but I personally didn�t think it was any different from any other resort that we have stayed in along the coast (I certainly found this resort easier with a childs buggy than say Marriott Marbella). Maybe we were fortunate that from the car park located above the fountains we were able just to walk down the slope slightly and we were then on the lowest part of the resort.

The apartment itself was well appointed with everything you would find at home, the kitchen was fitted with dishwasher, microwave, oven, grill, fridge freezer, every utensil you could possibly need to cook and plenty crockery. It was very clean an tidy and the appliances were in very good condition.

The bedroom was well appointed with plenty of drawer space and plenty of hangers available in the wardrobes. (A hair dryer was supplied which my partner was delighted with as she had forgotten hers) extra pillows and bedding were provided and stored in one of the cupboards if required.

The bathroom consisted of the usual suspects ( bath also had a shower overhead) and soap, shampoo etc were provided by the resort in the minature bottles. Again, very clean and fit for purpose.

The lounge was large and bright with two leather sofas, and large table, which doubled as a games table with chess, backgammon and playing cards stored under the lid. A large wall unit housed the television with a (free) good channel selection available including the Disney channel which was quite nice to settle the little one at nights. The resort has recently installed a new system which provides internet, e mail and pay per view movies which are accessed through a remote control. I never used this facility so can�t report on how good it is.

A large dining table was also provided with 4 comfortable chairs and all the placemats and napkins provided for setting. Crystal glasses of various sizes and an ice bucket were also provided.

The balcony was a good size and a table and chairs along with 2 sun loungers were provided, this was accessed from the lounge through a set of sliding doors and gave unspoiled views of the beach and sea as far as the eye could see.

The resort itself was well staffed on our visit and maintenance staff seemed to be going about their business. Security staff were very much present and I witnessed them several times stopping people and asking to see some form of proof that they belonged to the resort. They also came round the pool area twice with a clipboard and asked which apartment you were staying in which was reassuring.

As we had our little one with us we spent much of our time around the childrens pool, the pool itself was great and sloped from the entry area very gently to a maximum of 1 metre. Our daughter was more than happy to spend the whole afternoon in there without any problems and as parents we were able to relax without worrying about her. To me, this was one of the best bits about the resort.

The poolside maintenance staff were friendly and helpful and when we asked if the kiddies pool could be cleaned (after a windy night had blown some leaves and debris in) a member of staff arrived and had it all cleaned again within 10 minutes.

The resort also has an indoor pool with Jacuzzi, sauna, and a very impressive gym with the very latest equipment. A snooker room is also present and looked very nice when I popped my head in.

I spent around an hour talking to one of the timeshare representatives ( don�t worry, I approached him) and found him to be very helpful with anything I asked and he answered all my questions regarding refurbishments and future plans for the resort as well as how re-sales were doing.

We ate on a couple of occasions in Vista Mar which is the restaurant by the pool and had no complaints on the quality or the service. A similar situation was found at Barbrass by the main reception when we ventured up that way.

There are plenty eating establishments directly outside the resort and we found good quality and value at The Look Inn, which served a wonderful meal, Da Vincis Italian and the Buffet restaurant (the name escapes me but it was something like Mellot or maybe I had too much wine). The food in the Buffet was outstanding and I would recommend it to anyone visiting the resort or the area, There was around 70 different dishes/items available and everything from carvery roasts to Spanish,Italian and German cuisine and anything in between available. . I was slightly apprehensive when we looked at it as you are never quite sure how long food has been sitting in the buffet situation but we had heard it was good so took the plunge. During our time sitting there the chef was constantly coming out the kitchen and checking the temperature and quality of the dishes, he took several away (even though they were still full) and replaced it with fresh. All in all great value and highly recommended.

As this is getting a bit long now I�ll start to sum up a little.

The resort and accommodation were superb, all staff were friendly and helpful and I cannot find fault with anything during our weeks stay there. My daughter had a wonderful time and as parents we got to relax beyond our wildest dreams due to the kiddies pool. So mission well and truly accomplished.

All in all I would say this resort is both suitable for families and non families as the childrens pool does not in any way interfere with sunbathers by the large pool. Nothing worse than hoards of children running around you when your trying to relax, but the layout of the pools ensures that there is little chance of that.

I have some photos listed in the gallery section but if anyone would like to see more ( I have hundreds) or ask any questions about the resort then message me and I�ll get back to you as quickly as possible.

Regards
Scott

Malama Beach Club

chouldsworth@timesharetalk.co.uk — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 20:34:10 +0100

Resort Name: Malama Beach Club/Malama Holiday Village
Country: Cyprus

Resort Name: Malama Beach Club/Malama Holiday Village
Location: Paralimni, Cyprus
Exchange Company: RCI
Contact Information: www.MalamaHolidayVillage.com
Date of Visit: April 2008
Ages of party: 50s

The resort and the units are clean and well maintained, however if you are a Gold Crown owner I think you will be disappointed with the quality of the units.

We stayed in a one-bedroomed unit.
There are two bedroomed units available, but all are similar and the one we stayed in is typical.
The unit comprised one large bedroom with king size bed (which was as hard as rock), plenty of hanging space (but take extra hangers), dressing table with hairdryer, beside tables. Patio door led to patio area
Small kitchennete with two solid rings and oven, microwave, fridge, kettle and toaster. Little in the way of cooking equipment. Seating for 4 at a breakfast bar.
Through lounge with two settees/sofa beds which were very uncomfortable for lounging on, TV with no satellite chanels so English programmes limited to Animal Planet, National Geographic and BBC world. Patio door leading to patio area with table and four chairs.
Air conditioning provided warm air which is useful on cool spring days - we had several quite cold days.
The resort comprises only 2 and 3 story blocks, but the layout means that even though all units have a patio (ground floors) or balconies these actually get very little sun.
Bed linen was changed twice in a week and bins were emptied everyday.
Because we had a ground floor unit we had to keep the curtains closed due to passers by and this made the unit rather dark.

The resort has very limited timeshare activity and its clients come mainly from package holidays (eg Olympic and First Choice).
There is a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner - buffet style and an a la carte menu.
There is a small shop selling just about everything.
Kids Club
A very run down gym and rather dark and grim looking indoor pool.
The outdoor pool is very large and there is a poolside snackbar/bar with lots of seating.
There is a large sunbed area and a games area.
The animation team provides family type games and entertainment all day and in the evenings too.

In low season there were sufficient sunbeds and personal space, although in peak season I think this will be very different. The resort beach is tiny and accommodates about 10 sunbeds.

We purchased the meal vouchers for breakfast which was rather limited, but due to the poor cooking facilities in the units I'm glad we did this. However, in high season I think it will be a real "bun fight". The lunch and dinner buffets had limited choice, although the food was always hot and regularly replenished.

Outside the resort the building programme is ongoing with houses going up on every spare inch of available ground, although there was no noise from this.

We found that Cyprus is now getting rather expensive for eating and drinking, but there are several decent restaurants in a short walking distance. Try the Wooden Crest Inn for lunch and the Karas Tavern for dinner. Both places serve lovely homemade chips (not the usual frozen type). We were also recommended the Faliros, but did not get there, although friends who did said it was good. We were not impressed by the Shangai Dragon (Chinese restaurant on the main road), although our takeaway was delivered to us and would have fed four people.
Take a bus trip to Ayia Napa for Eu 1.35 from a nearby bus stop. A bus also goes into Paralimni from the opposite stop.
There are miles of coastal paths in both directions from the resort which pass several small beaches
There is a water sports "shack" on the resort beach.

Marriott Club Son Antem, Mallorca, Spain

neil1702@timesharetalk.co.uk — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 15:40:20 +0100

Resort Name: Marriott Club Son Antem
Location: Llucmajor, Mallorca
Date of Visit: 17-24 February 2008
Age of Party: 2 70s, 2 30s and 3 under 7
Trades with: Interval International

Web site: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pmimc-marriotts-club-son-antem/

[img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/200839145712_TST 2_1.JPG[/img] [img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/20083915253_pmimc_phototour04.jpg[/img]

Having already been to the two Marriott resorts on the Costa del Sol, we decided it was time to try the resort in Mallorca. We were not disappointed!

We rented two sleep six villas next door to each other (villas 427 and 428) and these turned out to have the usual Marriott space and quality. Ample living area, a King-sze bed with en-suite, a twin bed room and another bathroom. One villa had the living area and a bedroom downstairs with the other bedroom and bathroom upstairs, whilst the other villa had both the bedrooms and bathrooms upstairs. Both layouts have their pros and cons so can't say which would be best.

[img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/200839152418_pmimc_phototour03_s.jpg[/img]
[img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/200839152347_pmimc_phototour02_s.jpg[/img]

The outlook from the villas is lovely. As you sit in your back garden you are overlooking one of the golf courses. there's something rather nice about sitting out there sipping your morning tea or coffee and hearing the occasional ping of a tee shot (we overlooked the fourth tee).

The clubhouse is excellent with a fantastic pool that is a naturally heated spa. In the pool you can move from inside to out and the temperature of the water means it's suitable whatever the time. there is a rule that children under 12 cannot swim indoors after 6pm, but given the warm temperature of the water we just swam outside. The restaurant at the clubhouse, called Vista Verde, was pretty good as it included a kids menu and catered for us quite well, including the option of telephoning for take-away. It is a little pricey but that's what you get with Marriotts. It's worth it for the convenience though.

At the clubhouse there is also a health spa offering all sorts of treatments. We did not make any use of this as it seemed very expensive and we just wanted to have some fun with the kids.

There is another pool (outdoor and freezing!) and another restaurant and bar up at the hotel and main reception but we didn;t try them out. I did dip my toe in the pool and came with frostbite. I'm sure it's a lovely pool in the height of summer. Likewise the smaller pools located between the blocks of villas. There was also a play area for kids with the usual climbing frames and slides etc. Our kids enjoyed playing there.

There are two golf courses on site: the east and west courses. Whilst we were there my father-in-law played both of them and his preference was for the slightly cheaper east course. The west course is meant to be more of a challenge but it was in need of a bit of TLC, especially on the greens.

Overall I cannot fault the resort. The villas are lovely, the setting is beautiful, the pool is fantastic and we had a great time.

One small niggle was going to a presentation having already been told it would just be to join Marriott's rewards system and then having to listen to some of the sales pitch. Eventually the rep got the message that we weren't in a position to buy and he got on with showing us some of the resorts we might actually be interested in (Paris, Orlando and Lake Tahoe). whilst we there we did hear that they are currently selling a gold week for 20,000 if anyone's interested.

A car is an absolute must for a stay at this resort. Mallorca is such a small island you can almost drive all the way round it in a day. We found a couple of lovely beaches down at Es Trenc and in Palma and had a nice drive out to the north-east tip of the island. We would thoroughly recommend the aquarium in Palma for a visit if the weather isn't looking too great. We had one day of almost solid rain but had a great time at the aquarium, spending over 5 hours there. the kids loved it.

We are definitely looking to go back to the resort at a later date, hopefully next year. A great week's break for all.

[img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/200839145642_TST 1_1.JPG[/img]

* Photos courtesy of the author and Marriott

Marriott's Club Son Antem, Mallorca

Timesharetalk@timesharetalk.co.uk — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 15:13:16 +0100

[img]http://www.vacationclub.com/common/vc/en-us/resorts/mc/images/lrspic_csap007.jpg[/img]

Marriott's Club Son Antem
Carretera MA 19, Salida N� 20
07620 Llucmajor, Mallorca
Balearic Islands, Spain
Phone: + 34 971-129100

Surrounded by the Mediterranean, Mallorca boasts sandy beaches and secluded inlets and coves. This is the ideal setting for an active vacation, with two volleyball courts, a basketball court, and access to two 18-hole golf courses, a Golf Clubhouse and Spa, as well as opportunities, in close driving proximity, for boating, snorkeling, and diving. Each two- and three-bedroom villa provides views of the golf course and amenities include a whirlpool tub in the master bath, a fully equipped kitchen, utility room with washer and dryer, a barbecue grill on the terrace, and high-speed Internet access. The on-site Mallorca Marriott Resort Hotel also offers fine dining.

When you come to *Marriott's Club Son Antem* you will wake up and find yourself steps from the beach and a million miles from the cares of everyday life! The resort's Moorish architecture speaks of age-old traditions and invites you to explore the mysterious and exciting world surrounding it. Swim in free-form pools so dazzling you may never want to rest. Accept the challenge of tennis on a clay court worthy of professionals. The sauna, steam room, and whirlpool beckon with the promise of rejuvenation. In the center of it all is the clubhouse, featuring an activities desk, billiards and card room, and special areas for teens and children. Dine at the beachfront restaurant, or pick up a snack at the resort's marketplace. This resort has it all!

Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearics. An island of contrast and variety that allows you to be as inquisitive and adventurous as you want to be. Choose between the vast stretches of pure white sandy beaches or the sheer granite cliff topped with ruined watch towers and secluded coves - all surrounded by clear azure Mediterranean waters. The capital Palma de Mallorca has lots to explore, including spectacular architecture, historic monuments and enough shoe shops to satisfy your inner Imelda.

Highlights

* Elegantly appointed and spacious 2 and 3 bedroom villas to accommodate up to 8 guests
* Master suite has king bed, hydrotherapy tub
* Separate living and dining area
* Full kitchen with cookware and tableware
* Private balcony or terrace with grill
* Satellite TV programming, CD and DVD players
* Surround yourself with rugged mountain views and Mediterranean-style charm, just what you would expect from a Spain Timeshare - and more
* Experience some of Europe's most beautiful beaches just a short drive away
* Offers access to the Mallorca Marriott Son Antem Golf Resort & Spa
* Luxurious two-story, two- and three-bedroom townhouses offer a private terrace/garden area with barbecue

General Room Amenities

* Air conditioning
* Alarm clock
* Coffee maker/tea service
* Iron and ironing board
* Pillows: foam
* Pull-out sofa bed
* Safe
* Washer/dryer

Bathroom Amenities

* Hair dryer

Room Entertainment

* Cable/satellite TV
* Color TV

Kitchen Amenities

* Conventional oven
* Dishwasher
* Microwave oven
* Pots, pans, serving dishes
* Refrigerator
* Silverware
* Table and chairs
* Toaster

Top Attractions

* Cap Formentor & Beaches
* Chopin's House/Valdemosssa/La Granja
* Drach Caves

Unit & On-Site Amenities
Air Conditioning
Auto Rentals
Babysitting Referral
Bar/Cocktail Lounge
Clubhouse
Cooking Facilities
Day Spa
Entertainment, Live
Exercise Room, Equipped
Golf
Grocery/Convenience Store
Laundry Facilities
Playground
Restaurant
Sauna or Steam Room
Swimming Pool, Indoors
Swimming Pool, Outdoors
Television
Tennis
VCR or DVD
Wheelchair Accessible
Whirlpool Spa or Hot Tub

Other Amenities
Beach
Bicycle Trails
Boat Marina/Launching
Casino Gambling
Horseback Riding
Sailing/Rentals
Scuba Diving

Transportation
Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca/PMI - 10 Miles/16km

Check-In Days
Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Check-in time: 4 PM
Check-out time: 10 AM

More details available from -

Timesharetalk Resort Profile - Click here
External Website - Click here
Interval World Resort Profile - Click here
Resort Calendar - Click here

Macdonald Dona Lola, Spain

Jackiee@timesharetalk.co.uk — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 23:11:17 +0100

There are 3 replies, with the last one on 17/10/2007 at 23:11:17 by Jackiee
Quote:
Thanks.

Harbor Ridge Resort, Southwest Harbor, Maine, USA

tonyg@timesharetalk.co.uk — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 02:29:32 +0100

Name: Harbor Ridge Resort
Location: Southwest Harbor, Maine, USA
Date of Visit: Many over several years
Ages of party:
Primary Exchange Affiliation:II
Contact Information: http://www.harborridge.com/our_resort.htm

[img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/20071018145930_harborridge1.jpg[/img]

A 5 star II affiliated resort on the Maine coast close to Acadia National Park. The resort is on a hill overlooking part of Southwest Harbor and a little bit of the harbor can be seen from the upper deck of all but the handicapped access unit. The resort has only 40 units, an indoor pool, clubhouse, exercise room and an outdoor tennis court. The resort sits on an island, Mount Desert Island with a fijord, Somes Sound, separating it nearly in half. Southwest Harbor is on the quiet side, while Bar Harbor is on the other side. The Acadia National Park loop road is about a 15-20 mile ride from the resort. This was about our 8th stay at the resort, so you might guess that we like the resort and the area. For 3 pages of our photos of the resort and the nearby sights go here: http://tonygraz0.tripod.com/hbr.html

[img]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/uploaded/heather/2007101815024_HR.JPG[/img]

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Kruger Park Lodge, South Africa

Suebe@timesharetalk.co.uk — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:42:30 +0100

Resort Name: Kruger Park Lodge, South Africa
Date of Visit: 24 August 2007-31 August 2007
Ages of party:50+
Exchange Company:RCI

ACCOMMODATION
We stayed in unit 601, a two-bedroomed, two bathroom unit. It was not what we expected. The brochure pictures show thatched roofed houses and the brochure write-up talks of chalets along the Sabie River. Our unit was an apartment in a block of 6 apartments, the only block of its kind on the resort and as far away from the Sabie River as was possible. The units in Block 600 are far smaller than the other timeshare accommodation offered by the resort - although capable of sleeping six, they would be far too crowded (only four dining chairs, and patio chairs!!) and really only suitable for four.

This unit was definitely not gold-crown and was in need of some refurbishment and maintenance. The bed-settee was uncomfortable to sit on as you could feel the wooden slats underneath the cushion - thank goodness no one needed to sleep on it!! As soon as we got there, we had to contact reception to ask for someone to come along to deal with an ant problem by the patio door - thousands of ants coming up from underneath the wooden frame. To be fair, this was sorted fairly quickly. We also had to ask for someone to come and replace some lightbulbs. No 'welcome pack' of teabags, coffee sachets, sugar was provided which we thought disappointing. Apparently one pack should have been there - indicative of the lack of checking that units are prepared for occupation. Nor did we have an information pack, giving us details of the resort facilities, etc. Again, one should have been provided.

We did make our thoughts known but nothing could be done about changing the accommodation or so we were told. We did see the other timeshare accommodation available which was far more spacious and typical of other accommodation we have stayed in on previous visits to S Africa.

There is 'maid' service every day, and, as is typical of S African resorts, the 'maid' will wash and dry any dirty dishes, etc.

A free safe was provided in the unit and there were also keys to lock the wardrobe doors. Patio door was not too secure. Security is an issue and there is high electrified fencing around the resort - we know because our unit was not far from it, and the main entrance has a security gate, staffed all the time. There are also a number of security guards, some with dogs that patrol the resort. Guests are advised not to walk at night, but to use cars. Not sure if this is in case hippos are wandering round or other unsavoury characters. Apparently, people have been mugged on the golf course in the past.

THE RESORT
The resort is first and foremost a golfing resort and this is the main activity. It is a mixture of private housing and some timeshare units built alongside the various greens. If you love golf, you will love this resort - otherwise there is not a lot of other activities provided. Caddies and golf buggies are available for hire.

The main hotel complex (at least a 20 minute walk from our unit) housed the main reception and restaurant - this all seemed well maintained although we did not spend too much time there. There was a golf bar but this seemed to be closed at night. There was also a swimming pool and a lapa (a thatched-roofed area with seats and barbecues) alongside the river. They hold a weekly barbecue here for guests - you bring your own meat which the chefs will cook for you and pay 40R per head to cover soup, salads and dessert. There are a couple of other small swimming pools elsewhere in the resort. There didn't seem to be too much in the way of entertainment for children at the resort

Staff were friendly enough, and as helpful as they could be. We were greeted with polite indifference when we discussed our concerns re the quality of accommodation and some of the service provided.

You can book game drives and other activities at the main reception but these are not run by the resort - they act as agents. The same activities can be booked elsewhere for far less.

There is a laundry with washing machines and driers. Tokens can be purchased at reception.

Another attraction is the hippo pool and hide. A family of hippos live in a fenced off area. There are also various species of birds to be seen. A herd of impala roam free in the grounds of the resort.

LOCAL AREA
The resort is not as far away from civilisation as other resorts we have stayed at. The lights of the nearby shopping mall at Hazyview can be clearly seen. The entrance of the resort is on a busy road, always teaming with people and cars. At the shopping mall are a variety of shops, including supermarkets, banks and liquor store - also some restaurants. Further on down the road is Perry's Bridge where there are more restaurants and shops, as well as a place to book game drives and visits.

The main attraction is the nearby Kruger Park, with Phabene Gate only a 15 minute drive away. Entrance fee for international tourists is 120R per person when taking your own car into park. Game drives can be booked at the gate for 220R per person (which includes entrance fee).

Blyde River Canyon and its various attractions is an easy drive away - a circular trip is quite do-able in a day, going north from Hazyview up via the Erasmus Pass, to Blyde Canyon and Gods Window, then to Grasskop (plenty of places selling pancakes,including the famous Harry's Pancakes) and back to Hazyview.

Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre (about an hour from Hazyview and booking required as there are specific visit times) is also on the way and is worth visiting, as is the nearby Cheetah Centre. Near to Hazyview, on the Sabie road, is the Elephant Sanctuary where you can have 'close encounters' with their rescued elephants - walking with them, riding them, helping to clean them, etc.

Other attractions include Pilgrims Rest, an old mining village, Sudwala Caves, Shangani Cultural Village and Market, Botanical Gardens at Nelspruit.