07 May 2014

I was lucky enough to stay at the 5* Intercontinental Aphrodite Resort Hotel for 3 nights as part of an All Inclusive Agents weekend in April this year. We travelled with BA which I haven’t done for a while on short haul flights (usually favouring the cheaper low cost options). I really enjoyed the service, comfortable seating and the complimentary drinks and food – the wraps were delicious! We flew into Larnaca which is a 1 hour easy road transfer. Alternatively you can fly into Paphos which is only 15 minutes. I stayed in a club suite with private pool which was fantastic. The room was huge and luxurious with probably one of the largest bathrooms I have seen on my travels! The hotel is nicely laid out, low rise. Nothing is too far to walk to. Top marks for the quality and variety of the all-inclusive programme. We ate in the Pithari Taverna, and also the really lovely pool side restaurant called Ifestos Bar and Grill – so relaxing sitting there in the sun with a glass of wine and a huge salad! The kids club and facilities plus entertainment looked well run and I saw lots of smiling children's faces - they certainly looked like they were enjoying themselves! There is an outdoor paddling pool with slides and a shaded play area as well as lots of indoor activities. This is not Mark Warner though, so do not expect a huge range of kid’s sports programmes. I didn't sample the Spa, but we did look around. Really gorgeous with a stunning infinity pool with views across the hills. If you have a treatment there you have use of this - a really good place to chill out and relax. Or for something more active the Golf course beckons with a beautiful setting and a challenging course I am told, not for absolute beginners. I did manage the Segway tour, once I got my balance it was great fun! The only downside was the isolation of the hotel - which wasn't an issue for me and I found the 15 minute minibus ride to the beach enjoyable and easy. The beach is sand/pebble - not as lovely as the beaches near Protara's but does the job with an excellent beach side restaurant and included in the AI programme. I also saw a range of their villas on my visit. They all looked good quality with spacious rooms and modern facilities. Depending on the location of the villa and the village area it is located in, in most cases you will need car hire as it's far too long to walk to the centre. Especially with children and late at night. These villas are a good option for families who prefer villa flexibility with top hotel facilities on site. It would also suit groups due to the variety of the villa sizes and activities on offer. Overall, the highlight for me were the staff, nothing too much trouble and always with a smile on their faces. I had a fantastic time at this resort and would highly recommend it to my clients. I would personally go back there with my family or with friends tomorrow!