Has anyone been to those Holiday Villages? Would you recommend?

[perceptionreality]

....or are they a nightmare?

I've been looking at the one in Lanzarote (Playa Blanca). It appeals because it's right on the beach and I've read the food is good but I am concerned it won't be at all relaxing and will be very noisy. Also, I get the impression that outside the hotel and beach there won't be anything else to do or see.

Has anyone been?

I am going to the Tenerife one next weekend although it isn't a holiday village in winter it only runs partially. I will let you know. This isn't our kind of holiday and we are only doing it so there is something for ds entertainment wise.

Yes, I don't think I'd consider it if I didn't have dcs to entertain. Thanks, I'll be intersted to know - I looked at the Tenerife one too.

Have been to the Lanzarote one and had a great time- no complaints. We're off to the Costa Del Sol one this year.

Thanks NickNacks - can I ask what time of year you went? Is the food good? And the alcohol (not watered down). TIA

Well....

We went self catering (2008) and found it quite expensive. We spoke to people there who had gone AI and they recommended it so we upgraded for the last two days. Food was great but I immagine it could get repetitive if you ate there all the time for two weeks but all AI places are like that. The local town is a walk/very short taxi ride away so you can get to shops and restaurants and there are restaurants and shops on site.

DC's received a AI band for free drinks and ice creams etc regardless of our status so that was def a bonus.

Can't comment on the alcohol as I don't drink but DH didn't have any complaints about the beer.

We went in May (no DC's in school at the time) and was plenty hot enough if a little windy but this is usual with the canaries.

The kids clubs we used for a couple of hours in the afternoon for DS1 (4 at the time) were thoroughly enjoyed and we got some down time whilst DS2 napped.

Accomodation was nice, big enough for the four of us and clean. Pool and communual areas were well looked after. I know it has changed to a water park type pool area (so an upgrade from our point of view) so there is plenty of things for the children to be occupied with.

Will do. The trip advisor reviews look pretty good so we will see. The menorca one is shaping up to be good and we may do 2 weeks there in september once we have this break out the way.