Xanadu Holiday Resort

The beds and pillows were the highlight, we slept wonderfully. Our two-bedroom apartment on the 16th floor had plenty of space and patios looking out over the sea and The Broadwater. The tropical grounds were beautiful, and the pool and barbecue areas were spotless with plenty of shade. It's right by the beach, and the staff were friendly and helpful. We couldn't fault our five days here. Can't wait to return.

We enjoyed our holiday, but won't be returning to Xanadu. The last-day discovery of a horrible brown stain on a mattress was disgusting, and we were too uneasy to lift the sheet further or check the other beds. I considered giving two stars, but settled on three because of how surprised we were by it. There was construction around Xanadu when we arrived. Check-in was easy, the staff friendly and helpful, and the two-bedroom, two-bathroom Ocean View Apt. initially seemed spacious. It was reasonably clean, and the carpet was okay though worn in spots. But the decor, kitchen and furniture were old and far from the website photos. The balconies were a good size with lovely views, but had occupied spider webs. The kitchen had what we needed, though the dishwasher was old and its crockery drawers rusty. There was scum in the kettle, rust-looking marks on the toaster elements, and old but adequate wardrobes. After an uncomfortable first night, when I felt like I was being bitten, I woke to ants in the bed. Staff were quick to remove them, clear two active trails leading from outside into the bedroom and lounge, and change the bedding. The shower head leaked, and the curtain backing was filthy and mouldy. Every morning, including Sunday, we woke at 4am to mechanical or hammering sounds, maybe from the construction sites, beach or roads. The pool was adequate; basement parking was great, the building felt secure, the lift was very fast, and the beach, shops and restaurants were just moments away. To Xanadu management, thanks for replying. I'm glad to hear the next paying guests in Apt 140 will have a much better experience with the money we paid.

The room was extremely dirty and the service was terrible. When we asked reception for clean towels and a floor cloth, they told us to wash them ourselves. We were also told to put floor towels in the same washing machine as shower towels, which is disgusting and unhygienic. The staff's attitude was poor, and tourists shouldn't be treated this way. If I'd known this was the service, I wouldn't have spent a cent here. One of the worst hotel experiences I've had, and I won't set foot in this place again.

The views are fantastic, and it's good value for money in Main Beach, with easy access to the best of the Gold Coast. Even though the buildings are big, it never feels busy. It's east-facing, so the morning light will wake you up. I'd say paying extra for a high floor is a must.