Sunis Efes Royal Palace Resort & Spa

We came from Canada with a group of 40 to tour Turkey’s sacred sites, then stayed for a five-day retreat with 350 people from around the world. The facility handled that many people easily, and there were so many food choices. The main restaurant is cafeteria-style, with just about anything you might want. The desserts were amazing, and the range reminded me of our cruises, though it takes effort not to overeat. The turkey and chicken tended to be overcooked, and Istanbul has better food, but for a cafeteria it was impressive. The setting is beautiful, the Turkish spa is excellent, and the hotel gym is decent. There’s a lovely beach for walking, clear Aegean water, and stunning sunrises and sunsets. The other restaurants are very good too, but you need to book at least a week ahead. They’re free if you stay a week. Choices include Sushi, Chinese, Italian, Fish, and a few others. Service would have been a 3 out of 5 for me if Kemal at the front desk hadn’t been there. Most staff spoke very little English, while Kemal was fluent and incredibly kind and helpful. He sorted out a few things for us quickly, then checked back to make sure everything was okay. He stayed cheerful and calm even when our whole group arrived at the desk. I can’t stress it enough, ask for Kemal. Even his supervisor doesn’t speak English. Tell him “Donna and David” sent you. We’d come back because of him. If you’re particular about pillows like I am, bring your own. And be kind to everyone. A few words of Turkish go a long way. For Americans who travel with Canadian flags or labels on their clothes, remember you’re representing OUR Canada. Act accordingly. We’re mostly a kind, considerate, patient, and loving people.

The pool area was good, and we never had trouble finding sunbeds. There were lots of bars and restaurants, the hotel was very clean, and the food was good. The entertainment was great during the day and evening. Staff were friendly and helpful, always willing to do what they could. I’d definitely recommend staying here.

Hello from Malaysia! Ameera gave us wonderful food and drink service throughout the five days we were at Sunis. She was there every breakfast and lunch, always helpful. Thanks, Ameera. I hope I’ve got your name right, and I’ve attached a photo just in case.

This hotel has the potential to earn five out of five, but several things need work. As advertised in the UK, it doesn’t currently fit the Platinum or Luxe collection, and it definitely isn’t Ultra All Inclusive. We travelled in the last week of May. Jet2 said basically everything would be open from 15th May, but we didn’t see any improvements until our last day, 2nd of June. The good points: some staff were lovely, the buffet food was pretty nice, and the pool and spa were good, with a sauna, hamam, and steam room. Sea-view rooms have nice views. The Irish bar is very cool, though I think it closes in summer. The buffet has a short window when the food is good and waiters provide some service, mostly during its first hour. Arrive later and you may be disappointed. Some special dishes are available only briefly, and it seems maybe half the guests get a chance to try them. Once a serving plate is empty, that’s it. The hotel is seriously understaffed, and the bars have the same problem. We could visit the a la carte restaurant twice, but once was enough. The food wasn’t really the issue. The room felt like a half-empty canteen, with no music or cozy atmosphere. The trolley they serve food on is a real killer. You’ll know what I mean if you go. The branded drinks were another disappointment. Reviews mentioned particular drinks, but a couple were only available at some bars and for a very limited time. There was just ONE bottle of Chivas whisky in the whole hotel. Jagermeister was a little easier to find, but still not always available. You have to insist on the exact drink because staff tend to pour a local alternative, which, as many people know, is usually miles away from it. Kids over 6 will probably be bored. Apart from the chargeable games room and two pool tables in the hotel, there wasn’t much for them. I’ve stayed at Ultra hotels with free gaming rooms. I didn’t see any outdoor kids’ activities with a dedicated team. The slides were the only real fun, and the outdoor play area is just for toddlers. Keep in mind the hotel is very isolated. Getting to bigger cities like Kusadasi costs at least 80 Euros, so getting out for a change when you’re bored can get expensive. The animation team was nice, but activities felt limited. Things improved in the last couple of days, though we were still a bit bored. Some areas look dated. We had a family room, which looked much bigger in the pictures, but that was the least of our problems. Given how it was promoted, our expectations were much higher. If I were booking now, I’d spend a bit more and choose one of the other options available at the time, which are in a completely different league. Ozan, Baris, Mahir, greetings from Jonas! :)