"This was our second time staying at the Estival Hotel Resort. The last time, two years ago, it was the Estival Almaris, but this time it was the Estival Silmar.
We booked through TUI roughly one week before we flew out because we felt we had found a good price for a one-week all-inclusive stay, at just £570 per person. The booking through TUI was excellent, with no fuss at all. The flight, check-in, and transport all went well, with no complaints whatsoever.
We arrived at the hotel around 13:30, while check-in is normally at 14:30. Luckily for us, they had a room ready, so we were able to check in straight away, which we really appreciated.
However, what you notice straight away about this hotel is how outdated it is compared to the Estival Almaris, which is literally next door within the same complex. The hotel is very outdated and, in my opinion, needs major work done. The hallway leading to our room had very old carpet with a very strange smell. The corridor was also surrounded by very old furniture and generally outdated surroundings.
Once we entered our room, you could see that everything was outdated, from the bathroom and bedroom furniture to the overall decoration.
I have to be honest and say that some of the staff, especially at the main restaurant, were very rude, impolite, and unfriendly. The look on most of their faces always gave the impression that they were angry and frustrated. I understand that it is a very busy restaurant, with a lot of pressure put on the staff, especially at this time of year. However, I don't think I ever saw any of them crack a smile. It was quite strange and uncomfortable to see.
The cleaning of our room was also terrible. The bathroom sink was blocked on the first day, and I found a cockroach running around the bathroom while I was using the toilet, which was very unpleasant.
Now, to be fair, there are some good things about this hotel. The reception staff were very friendly, and you can use the facilities and main restaurant at the Estival Almaris next door if you want to. The Estival's free spa and indoor swimming pool are also nice. I also want to give a big thank you to the main restaurant manager named Walter who was very friendly and helpful despite our concerns. And they did get the sink unblocked straight away after we spoke to them.
The Aquum Spa & Wellness, which you have to pay extra for, is one of the best spa facilities you will ever see.
The location of the hotel is excellent, right next to the beach and shops, and it is only a 25-minute bus drive to Salou town. The hotel also has very good facilities for children.
Overall, though, the hotel is let down by how outdated it is, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the rudeness of some of the staff. Which why i am going to give it a 2 out of 5 instead of a 3 sadly to say."
