"We have just returned from a perfect week for two at the Riviera - our first time. The hotel is just over an hour transfer from the airport.
Our week went FAR too fast and every member of staff we encountered was friendly, polite, efficient and super-helpful. We cannot wait to return, and were very reluctant to leave!
Arrived at the hotel at 9.00pm local time, and we were greeted warmly by Daniel who dealt with our check in efficiently. Anurag was super-helpful, stored our luggage and ensured we got into the restaurant which closes at 9.30pm for something to eat and drink before we went to our room (156), which was very much appreciated!
Once we'd had a bite to eat, we went to our room - which was on the first floor overlooking a tiny pool! The room itself was absolutely fine, the decor a bit tired, and the door to the balcony was EXTREMELY stiff, but we thought that was extra-secure and didn't bother us, but may affect a less-strong person! We didn't spend a great deal of time in the room, so these issues didn't bother us at all. When we were in the room, we didn't hear anything at all from outside!
The Restaurant/s: Mirasol was great - with an outdoor seating area too. Plentiful, fresh and tasty food was available every single breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were so satisfied with the selection that we didn't even bother with the other 2 restaurants on site {Byblos (Lebanese) and Osteria Tropea (the Italian restaurant)}! The staff were super-efficient and polite and there was never an empty plate on our table!
The selection of food each day was immense, my only observation would be that I wish there had been a bigger selection of salad leaves or cold vegetables - but that's because I like eating them!! What was on offer each day was PLENTY though, and I wasn't ever hungry or peckish and would be shocked if anyone was staying there to be honest (and I love my food!).
The Pools: as we went in early May the 2 outdoor pools in the main garden area were FAR too cold for me, if there was a way to heat them out of high season, we would have swum a lot more! But the indoor pool was fine if you are keen on swimming, but it's a bit small, and more of a spa pool, obviously. The bar was manned by Vijay who was excellent and made the BEST cocktails and mixed drinks all day from 10am till 6.30pm (I think), there are so many sun loungers it wasn't a problem getting a fabulous tan!
The Bars: The Lobby Lounge Bar on the ground floor was absolutely lovely with fantastic drinks and snacks, delicious! The crazy-painted horse is a joy to see each day!
The Yacht Club on the 1st floor was where the evening entertainment happened which was varied and pleasant! Each night we were involved in (if not, we heard!) the crowd being entertained and appreciating the effort made by whoever was performing. Our thanks must go to the wonderful Antoine who was not only a member of the Guest Services team but an absolutely brilliant compere for the Musical Bingo Night - his boundless enthusiasm and perpetual smile was wonderful to see!
Service was fantastic - we were served mostly by the eternally-smiling Mateshwari and Niruta - they were EXCELLENT always smiling, always efficient and know exactly how to serve the whole area. It may not be the fastest service, but you're on holiday. They're doing their best. And are charming when they acknowledge a complaint.
I was shocked to see fellow Brits being quite rude and entitled and I sincerely hope the staff realise that not every visitor is that rude. I apologise on behalf of these types of people. They clearly don't value time to relax and converse and think everything should be served to them immediately. Please ignore them and continue what you are doing, it's wonderful....
We also had the opportunity to join senior Riviera staff at a weekly (I think) Management drinks where the General Manger (Tonio Aquilina) asks the Food & Beverage, Guest Services, Housekeeping Managers and himself to mingle with guests so feedback can be given. This is a brilliant idea and we were able to convey our observations and critiques in a very social and relaxed atmosphere!
Check out: As we had a later flight and had to check out at 12.00 noon, you are able to check out later if there are rooms available, but as they were fully booked, we weren't able to get our room till 3.00pm for a fee of 20 Euros, which was fine, actually as Ni Ni offered us the use of the Carisma Spa showers and changing rooms, so we were able to enjoy our holiday until the absolute last minute - thank you!!
All in all, once you get the lay of the land - you are able to entirely switch off and relax here. It is a wonderful place and Tonio Aquilina must be proud that all his staff are doing their jobs extremely well and they are all a credit to him and the hotel.
We cannot wait to return, THANK YOU everyone at the Riviera Spa!
A very grateful and relaxed Marina & Paul x :-)"