El Gouna, Club Med Holiday Review

Date: 13th August 2013

Subject: Elaine Barnes (customer services) visits El Gouna, and offers her thoughts on the resort.

Our resident Customer Services advisor Elaine Barnes took a trip to El Gouna at the Club Med El Gouna Resort in Egypt. She has worked in travel for many years and is sending regular updates about her latest trip to Club Med El Gouna. Her first report comes from, well, you can work out for yourselves from her photographs!

Club Med El Gouna

I had two bottles of champers on the flight out so couldn’t cope with anymore. You can’t beat a cold beer at lunchtime. Having a lovely time. Very impressed with the food and service here. That’s the french for you. Wine is nice and plentiful and El Gouna harbour is amazing, very chic. Def the St Tropez of Egypt.”

You can head over to our Club Med El Gouna page for more details of the Club Med El Gouna resort – there is also a video of Club Med El Gouna for you to take a look at. We arrived in Hurghada airport and were met by a Club Med representative who escorted us to our 20 min private transfer to the Club Med El Gouna resort.

Our rooms at Club Med El Gouna were Club Room Superior which had recently been refurbished to a very high standard. We had twin beds with his and hers sinks, shower and panoramic terrace front doors overlooking the gardens and the zen pool.

Each day we were greeted in our room by a different ‘towel origami’, skillfully arranged by Tawfek our room attendant. On one afternoon, we came back from lounging by the lagoon with our champagne cocktails to find that Tawfek  had thoughtfully gathered some exotic flowers from the gardens and placed them in our room.

A Garden Party was held during out stay to which all hotel guests were invited. The catering staff worked extremely hard to prepare the tables and chairs around the Zen pool to encourage guests to mingle and get to know their fellow holidaymakers. The pool area was well equipped with comfortable loungers and parasols and the Club Med staff were always on hand to serve an array of delicious cocktails and drinks and pool snacks.

The lagoon provided a great place to paddle and cool off during the midday heat. We were also able to practice our windsurfing skills in the shallow waters that the lagoon provided, before venturing out into the open sea. The resort was well laid out, with only having two storey buildings, with all the facilities easy to find and within easy reach.

The food at Club Med El Gouna exceeded all expectations. There was a wide choice of fresh sea food, prepared in front of us by one of the friendly chefs.  They prepared a variety of dishes for people with differing palates, too.The desserts were comparable to a French patisserie and the selection of wines and cheeses made for a perfect dining experience.

FACTFILE:

Location: North of Hurghada, on the Red Sea

Board Basis: All Inclusive

Rooms: Club Room, Deluxe Rooms, Suites

Sports: Aqua-fitness , Archery , Club Med fitness , Snorkelling, Guided walks, free practice of Beach soccer and Beach volleyball

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Wendy Wu Review – Vietnam Panorama

 Wendy Wu Review: Vietnam

Date: 13th August 2013

Subject: Vietnam holiday review, Wendy Wu

Two of our customers, Mr and Mrs P, have recently returned from a Wendy Tour, Wendy Wu Vietnam Panorama Tour. The 18 day tour is one of the best value Wendy Wu Tours and takes in many famous and fascinating sights. You can read their Wendy Wu Review below:

  After having had time to ‘recover’ from our super holiday in Vietnam, we would like to thank you and your colleagues for the very professional manner in which you dealt with our Holiday Booking.Everything went extremely well, the Cathay Pacific flight out was full but the return flight was two thirds empty so we had at least 3 seats each in which to get comfortable.

  The organisation was excellent as was our Tour Manager (Huan) and our Coach Driver (Bin).  The catering was far beyond anything we had expected as were the hotels.

  We were part of 18 as a group 12 Australians and 8 British – we all mixed extremely well and were sorry when the end of the tour arrived. Once again our sincere thanks to you for the friendly manner in which you helped us along with our booking.

  We will have no hesitation in recommending both your company and Wendy Wu Indochina Tours  to others who are thinking of visiting an extremely fascinating and friendly country.

If you would like to book any Wendy Wu Indochina Tours, Wendy Wu China Tours or Wendy Wu India Tours, then please contact Travel Club Elite for excellent service and extra savings – 0121 213 0012

Club Med Sandpiper Review

Date: 13th August 2013

Subject: Sandpiper Review for Club Med Holidays

Experience a Florida Holiday with Club Med at Club Med Sandpiper, Florida. A family resort, Club Med Sandpiper excels in sports, fitness and families. One of our customers recently returned from Club Med Sandpiper and was so impressed, they sent in the following Club Med Sandpiper Review.

  We booked through Travel Club Elite who were extremely efficient, on the ball and got us a good price from Club Med – Will definitely be back to use them again!

  We are a family of 4 – children age 15 and 10, returning from Club Med Sandpiper Bay. We thoroughly enjoyed our weeks stay. Kids club for the 10 yr old was perfect as she could sign in and out as she pleased. Latitude 27 was superb ( run by GO Ethan who was amazing) We saw glimpses only of our children during the week as they ate every meal ( stacked burgers,paninis pasta and pizza only I believe!!) with new found friends. My husband and I sat in the adults only section of the restaurant and enjoyed some fantastic food – a good selection for everyone. The wine however is shocking!”

  The GO staff were by far the best we’ve experienced at Club Med Summer Sun Resorts – probably the USA service side of life and no tips would be accepted,even by porters with luggage. Check in and departure were a breeze and we even had a stretch Hummer to take us to the aiport! The chef du village , Lionel , was superb.

  The evening shows run by Fernando were again the best we have experienced! The fitness classes run by Audrey were phenomenal – wow! She has trained celebs and athletes and Club Med are so lucky to have her – she beats any personal trainer I have ever been to! Washing machines and tumble dryers at $1 a cycle are fantastic! This is a predominately English speaking CM compared to others I have been to ( although Americans there thought it very French!).

On a more negative side be careful of room selection – apparently there are various Family Rooms – some have segmented areas ( one area with King bed segmented by a wall housing two singles or bunks separated by bathrooms) Others ( which we were given) are one large room with all beds in one space. This is the poorest set up with Club Meds we have stayed in. I asked agent before I left but she was unaware – be aware and ask to see room before hand! In busy times this may not be possible, but we were their when it was quiet ( Florida schools had gone back) .

  The air-conditioning sounds like a 747 at take off speed – you get used to it after a 7 nights! They also only have 4 catamarans – come on Club Med – buy some more!! Also, water skiing used to take place of another Jetty which now looks like its not used – water skiing was stopped due to expense but the bay is perfect for water skiing and not so much for boats! Paddle boards are readily available – look out for dolphins!

  The Discovery centre is exhorbitant- day trips are more than quadruple the cost of a family of four hiring a car. A local round trip to shops is $35pp Its only 6 miles !! Does anyone use them??? Hire a car independently if you decide and they will deliver and collect from CM ( Avis ) Booking Car rental before you go is much cheaper than when you get there.

All in all, Club Med delivers for a family holiday – it caters for everyone! Mrs P, Hampshire, Family of 4, visited Club Med Sandpiper Bay 13th August 2012 for 16 Nights

Da Balaia, Club Med Holiday Review

Date:13th August 2013

Subject: Holiday review for Da Balaia, Club Med

Club Med Da Balaia is one our most popular resorts for our UK & Ireland based customers. Located in Portugal, Algarve, the sun-drenched coastline, rocky coves and sandy beaches are ideal for watersports whilst inland, there are some fantastic championship golf courses. Mrs D from London, visited Club Med Da Balaia in September 2011 for 14 nights – her 4th holiday in 3 years with Travel Club Elite.

Thank you very much for your kindest assistance in arranging my holiday. It looks like we finalised all the arrangements with Sue on Saturday. But I am fully aware that  it was you, who invested a lot of time and efforts to meet my request regarding the flights.

I am very grateful to both you and your colleagues for a very professional and dedicated attitude to your customers. I am dealing with the Travel Club Elite for the fourth time for the last 3 years and it has always been a pleasure to deal with the people who are serving me.

Club Med Da Balaia is also a very popular resort for Travel Club Elite staff – a total of 7 visits over the past couple of years between our travel consultants! So if you have any questions about the resort, the food, the activities or rooms, then please call us! 0121 213 0012.

Palmiye, Turkey: Club Med Review

Date: 13th August 2013

Subject: Review of Palmiye, Turkey

Just a quick note to say thank you and Clubmed for a lovely treat I suspect you arranged for us on our flight out from Manchester on 13th July. The meal and particularly the extra leg room was very impressive, it made my mums 80th birthday very special.

 The (new) Zen pool and Adults pool area at Palmiye were superb and general conversations with other guests confirms this resort to be the best CM in Europe  as it ticks so many boxes (Childcare, Food, Water Sports (water-skiing / sailing), Tennis, Boat trips (the resort has its own ”sailing ship” for a snorkeling and bay exploration), Final night party / Gala….. and I have probably left out many others !!

So please pass on our thanks to Club Med for the above – it’s our 3rd time at Palmiye and hopefully not our last! I should perhaps go on TripAdvisor and add some +++ comments although I doubt it will boost its rating as I anticipate it will already be achieving 5/5.

FACTFILE:

The resort lies on a hill clad with umbrella pines, offering a charming view of the ocean, with endless activities including snorkeling, water sports and much more.Contact Travel Club Elite for more details.

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Cox & Kings: Rome Holiday Review

Date: 13th August 2013

Subject: Rome Review, Cox & Kings

Rome is one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant cities. Brimming with culture and with the sun shining almost all year round, it isn’t surprising that most families want to hop on a plane and taste the offerings of this charming destination. Here, one mother describes her latest holiday adventure.. .

Well, its now back to earth with a bump.  We got back from the cruise and our stay in Rome yesterday.  What can I say, we had an amazing trip and saw and did so much.  It pretty much all exceeded my expectations as I had only been to Corfu before so Venice, Rome, Athens, Pompeii etc were all new to me.

All the transfers worked brilliantly, the only problems we had were with local taxi companies here but they didn’t cause any major problems, everything else worked like clockwork. The Ruby Princess was good, but not quite as good as the Sea Princess.  The service/staff were 4* rather than 5* with the exception of our cabin steward.  We would still go back very happily though.  Matt had a great time, there were about 60 13/14 year-olds of varying nationalities.  There wasn’t a huge amount organised for them but they seemed to hang out by one of the pools/jacuzzis and be very happy in a large group – lots of independence too.

 We used a private guide in Venice who was very good and I can recommend her although she was expensive, and we pre-booked a taxi driver (both from Trip Advisor) in Athens who was fantastic.  Nothing was too much trouble, he was knowledgeable, courteous, took us to the Acropolis for 8.30am so we were ahead of the crowds/heat, worked his way round the planned road closures for a demonstration at the Parliament in the afternoon, made sure Matt was happy and basically did a great job and was very reasonable.  He does trips around Athens but also private tours all over Greece in his Merc.

We also did a general tour of the Colosseum and Forum in Rome and had two very good guides who we would book up with when we return, so I can recommend them too; we can’t believe its all over.  It would be good to look at something for October but suspect the piggy bank is empty now so will have to wait until next year.   Not sure what we will do as Matt is off on cricket tour to Sri Lanka for two weeks in April (its alright for some).  We might think about going out and watching some of the matches or might go off somewhere with just the two of us so will be in touch when we have more idea and see what you suggest. Once again, thanks for all your help and patience.

Sue L

Call Travel Club Elite now on 0121 213 0012 for more details.

Transun Holidays: Lapland Review

Date: 13th August 2013

Subject: Lapland Review, Transun

Lapland. With scenery so calm and mesmerizing, it isn’t a shock that most families pack their suitcases and head to Finland to visit Santa! Here, one of our customers, Clint Holmes, tells us what he thought of his stay with Transun holidays.. .

Our holiday to Lapland was totes amazeballs…we loved every single minute. Well, apart from the Husky experience at -37…but hey! It was certainly an experience!

The reps were ace, the staff at the hotel helpful…I think some old bat complained about something whilst we were there, but I don’t know what she expected…5* luxury rooms you ain’t getting out there! Yes, it’s basic accommodation, but clean and yes the food is basic, but tasted fine. We had a great time. Anyhow…wife and I are ‘considering’ a last minute break in the next week or two. After something cheap and cheerful if you have access to that kind of thing? We’ve just been camping, so fancy a nice pool and some crystal clear seas…got any offers you can point me to please? Just because we loved using Travel Club Elite’s services!

FACTFILE

Santa’s On His Way – From £1109, plus extra savings on top from us!

2 nights in Karesuando / Hetta

Accommodation: Davvi Arctic Depart: East Midlands, Gatwick, Humberside

Lodge Aurora House, Davvi Arctic Lodge Cabins, Davvi Arctic Lodge Fell h

ouse, Davvi Arctic Lodge Hotel, Hotel Jussantupa, Lomakyla Rooms and Cottages,

Lomakyla Cabins, Majatalo, Arctic Star Hotel
Karesuando /

Hetta priceDepart: Bristol, Gatwick, Glasgow, Manchester, LutonAccommodation: Davvi Arctic Lodge Aurora House, Da

Sleigh Bells Ringing- From £879, plus extra savings on top from us!
3 nights in vvi Arctic Lodge Cabins, Davvi Arctic Lodge Fell house, Davvi Arctic Lodge Hotel, Hotel Jussantupa, Lomakyla Rooms and Cottages, Lomakyla Cabins, Majatalo, Arctic Star Hotel

Heavenly Peace- From £899, plus extra savings on top from us!
4 nights in Karesuando / Hetta
Depart: Gatwick, Leeds Bradford
Accommodation: Davvi Arctic Lodge Aurora House, Davvi Arctic Lodge Cabins, Davvi Arctic Lodge Fell house, Davvi Arctic Lodge Hotel, Hotel Jussantupa, Lomakyla Rooms and Cottages, Lomakyla Cabins, Majatalo, Arctic Star Hotel

Wonderful Christmas Time – From £1469, plus extra savings on top from us!4 nights in Karesuando
Depart: 23rd Dec from Gatwick & Birmingham.
Accommodation : Davvi Arctic Lodge Aurora House, Davvi Arctic Lodge Cabins, Davvi Arctic Lodge Fell house, Davvi Arctic Lodge Hotel, Arctic Star Hotel

White Christmas- From £1389, plus extra savings on top from us!
4 nights in Hetta
Depart: 23rd Dec from Gatwick & Manchester
Accommodation: Hotel Jussantupa, Majatalo, Lomakyla Cabins, Lomakyla Rooms and Cottages

Call Travel Club Elite now for more information on 0121 213 0012

Kuoni: Club Bentota Review
Date: 13th August 2013
Subject: Holiday review, Club Bentota

Sparkling oceans, warm sandy beaches and exotic food, Bentota, Sri Lanka, is a favourite for Kuoni lovers. At Travel Club Elite, we strive to provide customers the best holiday experience, no matter which operator they choose to book with. Here, another happy customer, Allison Hadley, thanks TCE for our service.. .

Thank you so much for the most beautiful hand tied bouquet I received on Saturday! It is a pleasure to give my business to Travel Club Elite, the staff at your call centre are always so very helpful, courteous, and easy to deal with, and there is no pleasure placed upon one. This holiday is rather special; it is to celebrate my husband’s 65th birthday. We have been to Club Bentota five times (usually booking direct with Kuoni) until I discovered you! The flowers have made my day! Thank you again so very much, may I wish you a good summer and brisk business!

FACTFILE

Often dubbed the Paradise Island of Sri Lanka, Club Bentota is sandwiched by the Indian Ocean and Bentota River, offering fast paced activities that will thrill the adults as well as the kids! Whether you want to unwind by the pool or head for the beach for some wind-surfing or snorkeling, the resort can cater for all ages and different tastes. Comprising of 146 rooms, all with spectacular views, the main hotel presents itself as a beacon of tranquility, and guests can enjoy everything from the wide-range of culinary offerings and non-stop activities, performances and luxurious 5 star service.