Tui review
I’m not normally one to write a review; however, after the amazing service we received at Palm Gardens, I feel obligated to share our experience. Overall, we had a fantastic time and will definitely return in the future. The hotel caters to everyone and I’m confident that any family, couple or traveller would have a great holiday. Below, I’ve given some more detailed information on various aspects of our experience that I think would be good to know before booking.
Accessibility
I never believed I would be able to go on a holiday; however, thanks to the hotel's staff's consideration, I was able to make some happy memories with my family that will last forever. As someone living with ASD, I have very unique needs around catering, which have prevented me from going abroad. I require specific foods at certain times, and the staff went above and beyond to meet my needs. Staff were more than happy to provide me with food from the kitchen not available at mealtimes, such as avocados or berries, and were able to provide egg white omelettes on request. They were approachable and more than willing to adapt to meet my needs (with help from Google Translate). This experience was mirrored by a family with a celiac child who was made gluten free pancakes on request.
The hotel also has a hoist and is nice and flat, so it is ideal for wheelchair users.
Airport
We flew from Bournemouth, a local airport, which saved us £300 on the holiday. This airport was very small and there were, unfortunately, delays. We still believe this was worth the savings. On the other hand, Antalya international was ENORMOUS and very efficient, almost worth an excursion for shopping!
Activities
The hotel had an extensive daytime activity program offering exercise classes, activities for both younger children and teenagers and a fruit carving session, which is a must. It is worth noting that you can book activities before you arrive by putting in 0 for your room number to avoid disappointment. The instructors were friendly, motivating and upbeat, making classes fun; however, I do think they need to offer lower impact adaptations and a cool down. We enjoyed the bike ride; however, the smallest bike offered is a men’s medium, so I’d recommend asking to check out the bikes early if you’re a teen or a petite girl like me. The hotel could really do with getting some women’s bikes or putting a height limit on the description. The fruit carving was a unique experience, and as so much of the programme is active, it would be great if it were offered 2-3 times a week or if more places were offered, perhaps by advertising it as a couple’s activity. There’s tennis, table tennis, pool and many other activities you don’t have to book. Whether you’re a beach bum or not, you will not be bored.
We did one excursion to Side, which was great. The tour guide was very informative, and we could have easily spent the whole day exploring the ancient city and local bars. There are activities like boat rides for couples, a canyon tour with a BBQ we loved the look of and some water activities for adrenaline junkies. The hotel also offered a ‘VIP’ shopping experience, which is basically a free taxi to a shopping centre of choice. We would capitalise on this in future.
Unfortunately, we found the evening activities a bit lacklustre and far too late. Perhaps it would be better to have a dance show or live music and start the evening activity earlier at 10 pm, as opposed to 11, when many people would be ready for bed. The hotel could benefit from music in the turtle bar in the afternoon.
Food
This is not marked as a foodie holiday for nothing! Breakfast was amazing, featuring yoghurt, cereal toppings, fresh fruit and even a honeycomb in addition to a freshly prepared omelette station, cured meats, fish, cheeses and eggs of all types, along with pancakes, waffles and a wonderful array of breads and pastries. You couldn’t ask for more. Lunch and dinner featured fresh meats, fish and several vegan options with breads, salads, chips, and a daily special. Fillet mignon, grilled salmon, and lamb chops all in one night. What more could you ask for? The Chinese food at lunch was exceptional, and we particularly enjoyed the roast chicken and mezzes at dinner. You will be spoilt for choice. The turtle bar also offered jackets, BBQ meat and salads from 12-16:00. This was also delicious.
Staff didn’t mind you taking food away, so we were able to take food from Turtle Bar to the restaurant and vice versa to enjoy the best of both. It also meant we could pack meals to take out for excursions- MASSIVE cost saver.
We booked the BBQ and were spoiled with lots of tasty meats and a beautiful view. Although we booked the à la carte, we cancelled since we enjoyed the buffet so much.
The grab-and-go bar is always stocked with deli-style sandwiches, overnight oats, fruit, coffee, cakes, and ice cream, which are offered in the afternoon. The children’s bar serves frozen yoghurt and ice cream all day. Mocktails, cocktails, coffee and lots of other beverages are available on tap. We definitely had very happy tummies!
Facilities
The hotel is clean, green and very well maintained. The grounds and rooms are stunning, and the staff go above and beyond to keep the resort in top condition. The wildlife certainly agrees, watch out for the tortoise and hedgehog. The pool and sea are so warm and inviting. The gym is very small, but it does (it’s also open 24/7, not 7-10 as advertised). The spa offers lovely massages, and there is a hairdresser and doctor on-site, which is a plus.
Outside, there are a few bazars and a stall selling the BEST tasting coconuts. Even if you don’t go on an excursion, you can get your shopping fix.