Belle Astina

This wasn't the right base for my holiday. The staff were polite, but staying here would have made the rest of the trip harder. The area seems better suited to people focused on gyms, fitness studios, or clinics. Restaurants, bars, and ordinary holiday activities weren't easy to get to. The narrow streets were heavily dug up, with footpaths being replaced. After drinks or in the dark, it seemed easy to step into a hole or ditch. I booked three nights but had mixed up my dates when I asked about early check-in. The only option for that night was a two-bedroom villa, which they quoted at a price one third higher in person than on Booking.com, so I booked it online. They agreed to move our bags to the new room the next day, but it didn't happen. Early check-ins and late check-outs weren't flexible, though they did hold our bags. I was told I'd get a WhatsApp message when the room was ready, but none arrived. The villa's kitchen, lounge, and pool were all outdoors, and it showed. The beanbags were moldy, there was algae on the walls, and water splashed from the pool ran into the lounge instead of draining back. The bedroom AC was the best part: it was cool and comfortable, and the pillows were great. I cancelled my second booking and lost the 100 percent cancellation fee. I honestly didn't mind. I did have to follow up to get my security deposit back, since it wasn't returned automatically.

I stayed for three weeks. The people working here are very nice and helpful, but I wasn't impressed with the rooms. This may have been a nice place some time ago, but it's badly in need of maintenance, and the pictures don't show how it looks now.

We stayed five nights and found this one of the more affordable villas nearby. The staff were accommodating and arranged parking for us when we drove ourselves. There's also a mart within walking distance, which is handy since you may need to buy your own toiletries. The villa is spacious and works well for couples. The indoor pools were clean and inviting, the furnishings still looked fairly new, and we slept well without any mosquito trouble. I hope they keep it up.

My family and I were there from 24-28 December. It's a comfortable, family-friendly place, and the staff are friendly. Highly recommended.