Smy Tahona Fuerteventura

The nicest parts were the location near a beautiful beach and sunrise, and the traditional architecture. My four-year-old enjoyed himself, but didn't sleep the first night because there was no blanket. They eventually gave us one reluctantly, and I didn't ask for anything else because staff made it so difficult. The pool was too cold, the beds were rock hard, and the room smelled moldy enough that I left with a bad back. A valuable item of clothing also went missing from the room. SMY charged my card for amounts reception couldn't explain. Food was hit and miss: sometimes okay, other times so bad I wouldn't give it to a pet. Restaurant staff acted more like bouncers than helpers. Staff generally weren't pleasant, though I think the drunken, unpleasant behavior of other guests contributed to the negative atmosphere. We spent most of our time away, including at the beach. Christiana, the yoga teacher from an outside company, was lovely and clearly did her best. The green fence made the place feel like a prison, and the outdoor grounds need safer landscaping. SMY should support its staff, who I think are trying their best. This might work as a cheap base for walking and swimming elsewhere, but I would have been better off paying for an apartment somewhere else.

The people working here were lovely and polite, the food was fine, and the location is handy: around 10-15 minutes from the airport, close to beaches, local restaurants, and a Dino supermarket. The pool and all-inclusive options could make this a good holiday spot, and I really wanted to like it. The rooms need serious work. They look nothing like the promotional pictures and feel very dated. Our shower was so dirty and the tub so badly peeled that we wore flip-flops in there. There was a damp smell, apparently from a dusty, blocked, broken ventilator. The wooden shutters were rusted in place and hard to open for air. Curtains let in the sunrise, the beds were very hard, and although we needed three beds, the sofa bed wasn't made up; its sheets had just been left on top. Noise came through the thin walls, including pool bar music and guests talking on balconies. Safety was the biggest concern: there seemed to be just one fire alarm, which didn't look functional, while the bedroom alarm had been removed. There were no emergency exit signs. If the main door were blocked, the only way out would be a high balcony, especially worrying with shutters that barely open. Until the rooms are extensively renovated and safety issues are addressed, I can't recommend it. Similar places nearby may be in better condition.

The reason I keep returning is the staff. From the cleaners to the pool bar team, everyone has been friendly and really helpful, and they make each holiday feel special. I've stayed at SMY Tahona ten times in the past five years, and I'm already looking forward to coming back in April. The hotel is a relaxed place around the pool, with entertainment every night. Rooms are a good size and clean, and shops, bars, and the beach are all within walking distance. Breakfast is especially good, with plenty of choice, and the rest of the food is brilliant too. For the price, it's excellent. No complaints from me, and anyone who does complain can cheerio! Thanks to SMY Tahona and all the brilliant staff for making it happen so well.

Leaving was the hardest part. I was close to tears when it was time to go, and I hope I can return because I left my heart there. Before arriving, I'd read the complaints in some reviews and was prepared for anything. Instead, I found beautiful colours, lovely views, welcoming smiles, and delicious food. It was such a happy holiday, and I'm grateful to everyone at the hotel for making it so enjoyable.