Iberostar Santa Eulalia

The context - we were on a Saga Balearic Islands Adventure holiday staying at all three main islands. The booking assumed that we would arrive in the evening but because of our regional flight we arrived much, much earlier in the day. Having checked in the reception staff offered us breakfast and lunch as part of the deal, and explained that although we were on half board we could upgrade if we wanted to. Having thought about it for an hour, and studying the cost of drinks, we opted to up to all inclusive - a good deal in our view. All the staff are professional, enthusiastic, and friendly - keen to help. The rooms are well appointed and comfortable - we usually spend as little time in the rooms as possible - and they were very well serviced. Service in the public areas is excellent - you never have to wait for long before someone asks for your order. Nice little touches during hot afternoons are watermelon or ice lollies (I know, but the lollies are really good). The restaurant is well organised, plenty of staff for serving drinks, clearing tables, etc. The buffet style servers always has a wide range of hot and cold food, including ethnic displays, that is replenished regularly. The food is fresh and tasty. And each day you are welcomed with a pre-meal drink (alcoholic or not as you decide). Iberostar do want you to enjoy staying at the hotel. My wife loved the pool with its long swimming area - just right for serious swimming as our friend would say. A very short walk brings you to seafront area where you can swim from. Beaches are a 5-10 minute walk away along a coastal path which is not paved but safe if one takes appropriate care. The hotel location is quiet and away from the hustle of the clubbing night life areas of the island. This suited us. If you value quiet, comfort, good service and decent food then you should put this on your list.

This was our first visit to Ibiza and we chose an Iberostar hotel as they are usually of a good standard. We were not disappointed. Cleanliness - We were pleased to note that our room and all public areas were spotlessly clean; in particular the restaurant and the toilets. This is alwayas our first concern. Food - A good variety, well presented and generally of a decent quality. The chef appeared amongst the guests every day and listened to any complaints. Accommodation - We did not mind the small size of the room. The bed was extremely comfortable and there was ample cupboard space for clothes, cases etc. However, the toilet should not be separate from the washing facilities and the bedside cabinets should be bigger. Location - It would not suit those who enjoy nearby shops and nightlife. However the location was fine for us as we enjoy walking. There are nearby beaches and the town of Es Canaar is an easy 20-minute walk, with a lively Hippy Market every Wednesday. To go to Santa Eulalia requires a 10 minute walk from the front of the hotel to the bus stop and a bus journey costing 1.5 euros (taxi 10 euros). We would not recommend the walk along the coast at it is quite dangerous! Staff - From Rafa on the reception desk to the bar staff, cleaners etc., all were exceptionally friendly and helpful, with highly visible managers whom we witnessed resolving issues with guests. Entertainment - Amongst the best we have experienced in any hotel. Finally - We noticed a good atmosphere around this hotel; guests were generally friendly and relaxed (adults only). We would not put anyone off paying extra for Star Prestige, however we found the all inclusive option more than adequate. We did not use the Sea Soul area on the beach as we considered it too expensive and the facilities within the hotel grounds were better. Suffice to say that we were so impressed that we have already booked for next year!