Turkey has proved great value for family holidays over recent years, with an impressive range of high-quality options across its major tourist destinations.
The Dalziels are a lovely family of five, introduced to me a few years back by other long- standing clients.
They were seeking a half term break last autumn with their children, aged 9 to 13, and had been recommended the Maxx Royal in Turkey.
Having previously been to Belek and knowing the hotel very well, I was confident that it would deliver. I asked mum, Sarah, if she would kindly report back on their experience...
This was our first visit to Turkey and the Maxx Royal had been suggested as a good fit for us with great facilities for the children. It most certainly was.
These guys have got the balance just right. It is a beautiful hotel with lots to keep children busy whilst also providing an extremely relaxing and luxurious environment.
We flew with Jet2 from Glasgow to Antalya. Gillian had ensured private transfers were included which were welcome, particularly on arrival with the driver waiting for us and taking us on the journey straight to the hotel in nearby Belek.
First impressions were high. The staff greeted us in the luxurious reception area and made the whole check-in process appreciatively quick and easy.
The hotel is the most welcoming one we have stayed at and the service we received faultless. Two members of staff are allocated and available via WhatsApp to assist with anything needed throughout your stay, arranging anything from spa treatments and restaurant reservations to advice on external excursions. Nothing is too much trouble for them.
Our family suite was stunning - extremely spacious with a lovely balcony area. We are a family of five and had plenty of room with the children’s bedroom having a walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom and the large open plan master bedroom/ lounge area having an additional dressing area and en-suite.
The hotel itself is large but didn’t feel busy and we quickly felt confident to navigate our way around. All bars and restaurants are of an extremely high standard, offering a broad range of choice. We did have a slight concern that as an all-inclusive, the food quality may not be as high as some hotels we have visited previously, however this was certainly not the case.
The Japanese and steak restaurants were our favourites - the children loved them. Both have a small supplement, but unquestionably worth it.
At the beach/ pool there is a large fruit bar and ice cream area with huge selections and the bakery and chocolate shops are both outstanding.
The children’s facilities are first class. The water park is great fun with its own barbecue area for lunch, the high ropes, laser tag and games arcade were big hits too and there is plenty of entertainment on offer for the younger ones too.
There is a good selection of water sports available, but these are at an additional charge.
The holiday was simply brilliant from start to finish. We were a little apprehensive about the late return flight, however that like everything else worked out well. After a full day at the hotel we were given a complimentary late checkout and the Maxx not only have an airport service taking their guests through to a private check-in area and fast-tracking them through security, but also offer a private lounge area once through. Very impressive.
Gillian has booked us to return this autumn. She made everything so easy, liaising with the hotel on our behalf, where required, to make sure everything was taken care of.
Sarah Dalziel
