Preston Palace

Preston Palace doesn't position itself as one of Almelo's many standard hotels ; it's a standalone all-inclusive resort where guests essentially don't have to leave the grounds. With an abundance of facilities under one roof, including an indoor funfair and a subtropical swimming paradise, it promises a complete experience. But does this unique concept live up to the high expectations it creates? We delve into the details, based on the experiences of countless visitors.

Gastronomy: Abundance with a caveat

One of the biggest draws of the all-inclusive formula is the unlimited food and drinks. Guests are generally very pleased with the quantity and quality of the culinary offerings. There's always something to eat, from extensive buffets to snacks and sweets. The taste is often described as "super delicious," and the food is usually nice and hot and neatly presented. Specialty restaurants like "Pizza van Enzo" and "Midtown" receive praise and are considered businesses that could even be successful outside the hotel. The "bar street" creates an authentic café atmosphere that is appreciated by many.

There are, however, some things to keep in mind. Anyone wanting to dine at one of the à la carte restaurants should book early. Reservations are essential, and seating often fills up quickly, requiring planning and potentially hindering spontaneity. Furthermore, not all cafes in the bar street are always open, meaning guests are often forced to choose the same locations.

Entertainment and Activities: The Heart of the Experience

The entertainment offering is undoubtedly the heart of Preston Palace. The indoor funfair is a unique facility that is especially popular with families with children aged eight and up. However, the offerings for the very youngest are limited, which can be a drawback for families with young children. The opening hours can also sometimes be disappointing; a late opening on a Monday evening, for example, can throw a wrench in the works for guests with late checkouts.

The Swimming Paradise and other facilities

The subtropical swimming paradise, called Riviera, is described as a wonderful facility with everything you could wish for, including a large number of whirlpools, so there's almost always a spot available. However, there is also criticism. Several visitors report poor hygiene, particularly the floors and changing rooms, which they find dirty. Another recurring issue is the water temperature, which is said to be a bit chilly in both the pools and whirlpools.

Other activities like bowling and pool are popular. The bowling alley has a nice decor, but tall people should beware of the low ceiling. There's a clear preference for pool tables over billiards; the latter are often occupied while the billiards remain unused. The mini-golf course is described as functional but somewhat dull in its decor. Evening entertainment such as live music and bingo is appreciated, although the quality of the performances can vary.

Alojamiento : The Habitaciones and the Comfort

The accommodation itself, the hospedaje itself, isn't the main reason many people visit Preston Palace. The rooms are described as simple, functional, and sometimes a bit small. However, the beds are comfortable, and the rooms are generally clean. A common complaint is the cold bathroom. The biggest drawback cited by guests is the noise. Not so much from neighboring rooms, but mainly from the hallways. Because many facilities are open late, guests return to their rooms at different times, and noisy behavior in the hallways is considered very disruptive. This gives the feeling of a hostal or albergue , which detracts from the peace and quiet one seeks in their own hotel room. This is a significant drawback for those looking for a quiet posada or hostería .

Service and Practical Matters

One aspect where Preston Palace consistently scores highly is the friendliness of its staff. Staff are almost unanimously described as "super friendly" and pleasant, which significantly enhances the overall experience. The focus on service is also praised, such as the flexible way in which problems are resolved, such as offering day passes in the event of an unexpected early departure.

Practical amenities such as charging stations for electric cars are available, but they don't function optimally. Charging is slow, and the spaces are frequently occupied by uncharging vehicles, which can cause frustration.

Who is Preston Palace suitable for?

Preston Palace isn't a traditional hotel and shouldn't be considered one. It's a fully-fledged entertainment resort that excels in its all-inclusive offering of food, drinks, and non-stop activities. It's an excellent choice for groups of friends and families with older children looking for an entertaining stay without worrying about extra costs. It's not a destination for those looking for luxury villas , a quiet apartment , or idyllic cabanas .

• Pros:
  • Extensive and tasty all-inclusive food and drinks.
  • Huge range of entertainment and facilities under one roof.
  • Very friendly and service-oriented staff.
  • Unique attractions such as the indoor fair and the large swimming paradise.
• Negatives:
  • Significant noise pollution in the corridors near the hotel rooms.
  • Hygiene and water temperature of the pool are areas for improvement.
  • Need to plan restaurants and activities well in advance.
  • The rooms are basic and some facilities could use an update.

Potential guests should be aware of the lively and sometimes noisy nature of the complex. Those who prepare for this can have a very successful and rewarding mini-vacation. However, for those who prioritize peace and quiet and luxurious accommodations , this may not be the most suitable choice.