Olivia Blue Sea

"Let’s start with the good points, the grounds and room look lovely and are as advertised, that’s where it ends. After that, lots of small issues led to a very disappointing stay. Food – very repetitive, very little flavour and clearly cheap ingredients, even the bacon was ‘plastic’. Omelettes very oily. Salad bar was OK. Arrived on a late flight and were handed a ham sandwich and three small pieces of bruised fruit as our evening meal together with an efficient but unfriendly welcome. Gyros form the pool bar is very good. Drinks – all non-branded as we knew in advance – soft drinks all flavourless Mocktails are just different flavour sodas. Drinks in dining room were all from machines, including wine. Non-alcoholic drinks from the bar are from a soda pump including tonic water. Fruit juices clearly from concentrate due to flavour and colour. Revolting coffee from vending machine. Room – paper cups for drinks, milk and cups not replaced at any point once used. Bathroom so small there is no storage space so we had to live out of wash bags. Shower clearly ancient and no water comes out of most of the waterfall shower head. Bathroom floods when shower used due to poor design Only two small drawers to store clothes, so lived out of suitcase for the week. Towels poor quality and some had holes in. Flashing light above bed very bright, did not help sleep. Bedding changed regularly but two single sheets left folded for us to make up ourselves on some occasions. Cleaning very minimal Room doors cannot be closed without slamming which wakes other guests up, not ideal with late check ins and early starts. Mini fridge a great addition but not switched on for arrival so water left in room was warm. Occasional drain smell from bathroom. Handwash running low so it was topped up with water rather than being replaced. Bathroom extractor fan did not work. No secure luggage storage s provided. You are expected to leave your cases in the public area out of sight of the reception staff so they take no responsibility for it. We were asked to write a review of the hotel by the reception staff. We were expected to do this with them watching over our shoulder and they seemed a little surprised when we refused. This maybe explains all the 5 star reviews as it really is not a true reflection of the hotel and is incredibly underhand. It would be very uncomfortable to write a trueful review with them watching over your shoulder. Overall, it was the end of the season and it clearly showed. This is not a 4 star hotel, apart from on initial looks and facilities, it is 3 star at best."

"We enjoyed our time here among the last guests of the season. Due to the imminent close, the wind down of staff became evident but didn’t really affect service. All areas and rooms kept clean. Food range these last few days a bit limited but enough choice and good quality with chefs Spiros and Vasilis asking for our opinions and making recommendations so that was 5+ attention to detail. Kitchen team worked hard ensuring the buffet was replenished regularly and restaurant staff always friendly and helpful. Pleased to have more Greek food on offer, along with all the usual international types. No "theme night menu” which was a relief, as they are often a disappointment. Enough vegetarian options too. Outside snack bar offered gyros etc but not much else. Drinks were mediocre, but staff worked hard in the bars and service was always with a smile. Using the indoor pool, sauna and steam room is apparently free but needs to be booked as under control of the spa team which is a separate company so didn’t bother. The outside freshwater pools are interestingly designed and good for long swims but cold this time of year. Car hire rep on site which was useful and got vehicles on two different days to explore the island. Jet 2 rep had helpful information without pushing tours etc, but we ended up booking the Symi day trip with her anyway as it meant all the arrangements and connections were covered. The hotel and grounds have a few cat families, and as cute as kittens can be, not fans of them on the tables and in the restaurant. Staff do their best to keep them out and are vigilant to clean and sanitise areas affected. Hotel is quiet with entertainment only a couple of nights, but a husband and wife singing/comedy act was the best show we've enjoyed at any resort. Ideal for a quiet time away and the vibe is definitely chilled."

"We loved it all the way... Warm & attentive service: The staff welcomed us with genuine smiles, helped with our luggage, and were always ready to assist with any query. From poolside to reception, the team made us feel truly taken care of.thank you cara Stylish, comfortable rooms: Our room was clean, modern and thoughtfully appointed with a comfortable bed, fridge, safe, good WiFi and a balcony overlooking the grounds. A truly relaxing space. Beautiful pool area and surroundings: The outdoor pools are spacious and nicely designed, set among olive groves which added a sense of calm and elegance."