The Residence Mauritius

Unfortunately this hotel falls short on the basics in terms of staff training, service and food. Most staff seem to give the impression they don't really want to be there, smiles are late coming and staff are indifferent and detached. Obviously some put in more effort than others, but there is no consistency. The most problematic part was trying to get a drink - any drink, whilst on the beach under the palm trees. There were about 40 - 50 sunbeds in this area but with no one taking responsibility to serve anyone. To try to get a drink required great resolve and planning, being ready to counter whatever the new excuse was of why that particular drink (as simple as a coke) was not possible at that particular time. It all comes down to staff training as the young boys hanging about simply didn't have the knowledge, 'authority' as they put it, or ability to serve. They look very tentative when approached and one got the impression they had been thrown in at the deep end with little training and were very new. When the bar staff were approached at the plantation restaurant, the excuses ranged from 'the bar man doesn't get here until 12.00/ the barman left at 5pm/ we don't have that wine by the glass (despite the menu stating it did) and then saying they would 'make it happen', only to find we were charged for it upon settling our bill. One day we waited so long for two 'mocktails' that I'd forgotten that we ordered and lost heart. The service at the planation restaurant at lunchtime was not great, there were plenty of staff but only one main guy was deemed capable of taking orders from customers. This led to a long wait for orders to be taken.... and the 'bill' which isn't a bill if you're AI but which you have to wait around to sign for .... and which would often have a charge on there for the full meal even if you're AI (they don't ask when taking order), which then leads to an even longer wait for them to amend the pointless bill. With the planation restaurant eliminated, that leaves the buffet. As with most buffets, you'll find something, just don't always expect a drink to be served with your meal (be in wine or water). I would advise against all inclusive as this is a waste of money. Most of the dishes in the planation restaurant are not included so involve additional cost. I feel uncomfortable writing such a long, poor review but when one has booked so far in advance, looked forward to a holiday, paid a lot of money and travelled in excess of 14 hours, these basic things are just plain disappointing. On a positive note, the spa staff are great, helpful and professional. The beach is lovely, the sea is gorgeous and the water sports are great. On the flip side of the beautiful beach, one day the locals came, as is their right, to celebrate a particular religious festival, but unfortunately left a huge amount of rubbish strewn all over the beach. Although this wasn't the fault of the hotel, I felt sorry for any guests who had just arrived

I had a great time there. The beach is very clean and great sandy beach. Staff, room and food were great. Definitely worth the money. There is also a yacht club with lots of water activities included. Went water skiing with Luciano and it was great.