Sherwood Exclusive Lara

We stayed at Sherwood Exclusive Lara as two families and were unfortunately very disappointed with several aspects of the hotel.

Both rooms had a noticeable smell of cigarette smoke. A room change did not seem like a real solution because smoking is allowed on the balconies, smoke easily enters the rooms, and there was no clear information in the room stating that smoking indoors was prohibited.

The food selection was large, but many dishes were heavily seasoned with similar Turkish spices. For our children, the choice of mild and simple food was extremely limited. Apart from salad, melon and a few basic items, it was difficult to find suitable meals. The included wine was also a very basic local house wine, with no meaningful alternative offered. Very cheap.

There were also several room and maintenance issues during our stay, including damaged furniture and problems that should not be expected in a hotel advertised as five-star.

Several members of our group developed diarrhoea during the holiday. Two children from the other family were also medically diagnosed with worms in their stool and received medication. We cannot determine where or when the infection occurred, but the medical problems arose and were documented during the stay.

We reported our concerns to the hotel and to TUI while we were still there. The hotel repeatedly requested a personal meeting, but at that stage the fundamental problems could not realistically be corrected before our departure. TUI tried to find another hotel, but no suitable availability was found in time.

The pool area and children’s facilities are large, and some staff members were friendly. However, the smoke smell, food quality, maintenance problems and overall handling of our complaints meant that the holiday did not meet the standard we expected from a five-star “Exclusive” resort.

Despite the many good reviews, for a frequent world traveller this hotel is disappointing and far from 5 stars, lacking in some basic amenities and services. Whilst the pool and garden areas are beautiful and well kept the rooms and interior are tired. To list a few of the basic issues

• towels are thin and crispy
• no irons in the room. You have to go to reception, pay a deposit and then are passed one over the desk. After 4.30pm you can’t get them as there are not enough
• food is basic, lunch options limited
• equipment in the gym is broken (treadmills don’t work and the staff don’t care)
• many staff are dismissive and rude (although a few gems)
• sun beds are not cushioned
• Beds are uncomfortable and hard, no pillow options
• aircon doesn’t work in all the bedrooms and again staff don’t care

Granted the above don’t make or break a holiday but they are essential in a 5 star hotel. I’m afraid we won’t be back

Food is great and diverse Entertainment is unique Lots of pools