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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thompson august 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : gary , karen - lancs (34)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just returned from an 11 night holiday at hotel d'or, in cala d'or, this hotel is in the small and friendly brochure and thats exactly what it is, it has everything you need from a hotel.It has 4 blocks of rooms all centered around the pool on 2 levels, we had room 402 with a terrace, which was fine although you could here the spanish singers from the fiesta in the square, which is right outside the hotel down the side street, but it was fine it all added to the atmosphere.

The rooms we quite big for a small & friendly with lots of storage space and a big bathroom.they have the best air con ever and it stays on when you are out of the room. You can hire a fridge ect at reception and it is delivered to your room ours was 65euros for 10 days but we really couldn't do without it so take a bit extra to get one, you can also hire baby eqt from him and lots more.

The breakfast was very good between 8 - 10 am , bacon sausage hash browns, mushrooms,  eggs fried scrambled or boiled, fruit, cerial, toast ,do-nuts, coissants biscuits cakes, juice tea coffee, excellent.
The maids were very friendly and kept the rooms very clean, they changed the towels 6 days a week.
The hotel has a very good snack bar open from 10am to 12 am, there is also a tv room with a pool table.
You do have to get a sunbed by 10 am or you've no chance, also the 3 coves(beaches ) get very crowded in august.

The resort is great at night, all the restaurants have pavement tables with candles on the tables, there are twinkling lights in the trees, spanish music, spanish waiters, gorgeous atmosphere if you like going for romantic meals.But dont be fooled by how empty it is in the day , all the restaurants are full at night , no trouble getting a table though.
if you are into clubbing there are a couple on the square open till about 6 am, also lots of music bars, cocktail bars, lots of steak houses too, our favourites were don leone, also liked, cheers, the upstairs bar, ferkin bar.

we also had the fiesta in the square for 5 days , it was excellent, lots of market stalls , live bands, dancing, and about 5 bouncy castles, fair rides and trampolines for the kids. ( dont know how often this comes to cala d'or though. ) it finished with the best firework display i've ever seen.

The marina is left out of the hotel then right, or you can take the mini train for 3 euros return.
This resort is definitely for families and couples that want somewhere not dead but not a "clubbers " resort, no stag do's no gangs, it has a spanish feel to it not english , no pr's dragging you in (bliss) .

We didn't get a welcome meeting and the rep only visits 3 times a week for about an hour , but we didn't miss him !
all in all a brilliant holiday/resort/hotel will definitely be returning soon.

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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: 1800 Hotels - July 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Louise, Joe, (40)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Booked the D'or Hotel the day before we left Ireland.  Didnt get to see any reviews before so did not know what to expect.  

We arrived at the hotel at 12 midnight and the first thing we noticed when we got to our room was the smell of must.  It had the feel of a room which hadnt bee aired in a while.  This smell disappeared after a day or so.  It was to the side of the complex, and was in need of renovation.  Other rooms seemed to be more modern, so maybe they are planning to imporve the others.  Air conditioning which was great, as the weather was scorching.  Very close to restaurants, beach (Cala D'or) but pool very small.  Would suit children for this reason as they wouldnt have room to play about without splashing anyone else using the pool at the time.  Breakfast was fine.  They could do with renovating this area also as it was a bit dark and had not windows.  

Rooms cleaned each day with fresh towels.  Cleaner very friendly.  Phone in lobbly very reasonable.  Nice resort but if you like nice beaches not really the place to go.  Beaches packed each day, with every available space taken up.  Restaurant service very poor overall. All touting for business but didnt have the service to back it up.  One particular restaurant we had to request our drinks about 3 times before they eventually arrived, well most of them did. 

Wouldnt be rushing back but had a relaxing break all the same.

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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: Booked direct with Easy Jet and Hotel - Sept 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : TM and RW - Norfolk (24, 23)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Returned yesterday from a thoroughly enjoyable week at the Hotel D'Or in Cala D'Or, Mallorca.

I found the hotel in the Thompson Small & Friendly brochure and it appealed to us. It's not really geared for children as there's nothing for them to do. This suited us down to the ground as we wanted a quiet break away with no screeching kids dive bombing into the pool etc.

I didn't book through Thompson as I found I could save about £100 per person by booking a flight with Easy Jet from Stansted and then contacting the hotel to book directly. The hotel booking was all made by e-mail, I didn't even have to phone them. A taxi transfer from the airport cost us 55 euros, the transfer back cost the same, Juan the manager arranged this for us on our day of departure.

I would describe the hotel as basic but comfortable. No phones or TVs in the rooms, but who needs them when you're on holiday in the sunshine?! It is generally very clean and tidy. The breakfast is more than acceptable, fried eggs, bacon, sausage and occasionally hash browns and tomatoes. Also provided are meats and cheeses, fresh fruit, cakes, donuts and the best croissants and coffee I have ever tasted.

The swimming pool is not huge but just what you need to cool down in after some intensive sunbathing. They could perhaps do with providing a few more sunbeds as these were pretty much 'reserved' (ie, someone had thrown a towel on and that's it - the sunbed is their property for the day, even if they leave the hotel!!) by about 10am.

The hotel bar and communal area is very relaxed and pleasant. Snacks such as cheeseburgers, hotdogs, baguettes and fries are provided at reasonable prices. They also have a 'happy hour' between 4pm and 5pm where any drink (from soft drinks to jugs of sangria)is buy one get one free. Therefore 2 litres of Sangria for about 7 euros! Can't go wrong. They also have Sky TV so we didn't have to miss England winning the Ashes.

The staff at the hotel are excellent, especially Juan the manager who was exceptionally polite, friendly and helpful. Nothing was too much trouble.

Cala D'or itself is a lovely resort. We weren't really after the nightlife of Magaluf neither did we want it to be dead. Cala D'or was therefore perfect for us. There are music bars if you want them and a couple of clubs.

We spent most of our evenings sampling the many restuarants on offer.We tried a couple of places in the pedestrianised centre, including a dutch place (can't remember the name) where we had unlimited ribs and chips for 9.95 euroes. The other place we tried was some kind of mexican place where the food was rubbish. However, this was the only bad meal we had. As we aren't really fans of going abroad and eating nothing but English food the whole time, we avoided places like 'Cheers' and 'The Dumpling', although these seemed very popular with other holiday makers.

We had some fantastic meals by exploring the restaurants away from the centre of town and in the beautiful Marina. We found a very nice Itallian restaurant called Capriccio Italiano where we ate on two occasions. They are away from the centre of town so very peaceful. Their Calzone is wonderful. However, if you want an extra special dining experience, go to the Marina. The resturants are wonderful, quite formal but don't cost much more than the places in the town centre. The quality of food is excellent, as is the service. We would thoroughly recommend Acuarius and also Blanco Y Negro. There is a lovely atmosphere at the Marina's restaurants in the evening, if you're going to Cala D'or, you really must go there.

So to sum up, we would definitely recommend Cala D'or and we would also recommend the Hotel D'Or if you are not looking for a luxury hotel and you are happy with a simple, comfortable and clean base for your holiday. The resort in September was relatively busy - I'm not sure it would be as nice in months like July and August. The beaches are beautiful and the weather was scorching.

Mallorca surprised us - we had no idea how beautiful it is. If you go, hire a car and drive round the island, especially the mountain region - it is stunning.

And book with Easy Jet and get accomodation directly. It's very simple and straightforward and you'll save yourselves a fortune. The only thing you don't get is a rep and in my experience they're not really much use anyway! 

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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - aug 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : lynne & Dave Doncaster 50,51

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

hotel is as brochure states.  Staff very good. Had a lovely time here in majorca - only negative side was having to get up at 6am to get a sun bed!!  Location is very good - near square where fiesta was held and firework display. Would definately recommend this hotel to anyone. Will be back.

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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thompson    -     June 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Yvonne and Neil.       Halifax  ( 58, 59 )

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We were not sure what to expect as we had not read any review's on the hotel but we were not in the least dissapointed. 

The hotel is small, imaculately clean and the staff were so helpful and friendly. It is only a few yards from all the restaurants and bars but there is no noise, it is so peaceful.We made loads of friends (it is that kind of hotel, everyone gets to know each other) The only down side was that there were not enough sun beds,if you weren't up and about early enough you couldn't get one and you had to go to the beach.

We have already recommended this hotel to friends and we shall certainly return in the near future although we will book direct with the hotel as the taxi to and from the airport is not too expensive 54 euroes each way.

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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - June 2005

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Jill & Jerry - Norfolk

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

We were a bit concerned after booking this holiday to find no reviews anywhere on the internet but when we arrived we found our fears totally unfounded.

Being a childless couple we wanted relative peace and quiet and that is exactly what we got.  The hotel features in the small and friendly brochure and the brochure description is spot on.  The rooms are clean and the maid came in 6 days out of 7 but you are warned she has a day off, rooms are also quite basic but like that the safe is in the room. 

The staff were superb throught our stay, nothing is too much trouble and any problems we has were sorted out within half hour.  Entertainment at the hotle is 1 night a week with the same band returning who like the beatles!
The hotel is in an ideal location just out of the centre but about 2 minute walk, noise doesn't carry, the only noise we had was the traffic on the road outside, but you get that everywhere.

Breakfast was good too, alot of choice with a couple of changes throughout the week, but always hot and being refreshed by the staff.

Shop is directly opposite the hotel, anything you want to hire comes from an outside company (fridge ?45 week!) this is very expensive.  Public transport is few and far between, tour buses are laid on but only on market days or to go to see the caves in POrto Cristo, get to Palma on the local bus ?25 return - bargain!

We found many excellent restaurants during our stay, but can recommend Basil at The Dumpling (sangria is potent) and Mark's bar, both had excellent service, good portions and very good value for money.

We are looking to return next year and would definately come back here.

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Hotel D'or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: Expedia - May 2005

Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Linda Larner (42,21,15)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We arrived in Palma 01.05.05 and had prebooked a taxi to the Hotel D'Or which is a good job because it seemed to be a little difficult to find as it is situated on the outskirts of Cala D'Or. 

Upon our arrival we were greeted by the manager Juan and were told we were the first guests of the season.It gave us a good chance to explore the hotel facilities as there was no one else there for the first 3 days. The staff there are very friendly and all speak excellent english. Trips can be arranged at the reception and pick up is usally from the hotel or very nearby.

The hotel itself is 2 storey and quite small and all rooms center around the swimming pool. There are some rooms which are on the second floor but are at the side of the hotel. I would not recommend these if you want a qiute nights sleep as there are a couple of loud late bars in the next street that play music till well into the early hours. The rooms themselves are clean and functional but very basic. there is no mini bar or TV but there is a TV room and pool table that is availible 24hrs a day with a large wide screen TV. The breakfast is english / continental but the english breakfast consists of eggs, bacon and beans and there is toast availible. It's not the most luxurious hotel but the warmth and friendliness of the staff make up for this and we were treated exceptionally well. The maid came in every day without fail to make the beds.We had an extra camp bed in the room as there were myself and both my daughters ( guess who ended up with the camp bed!)This wasn't particularly comfortable and probably not recommended if you have a bad back.There is also no telephone in the rooms but there are several phone boxes which take phonecards quite close.

The Hotel features both on Expedia and Thompsons and it states that it is 500 meters from the beach. This is not the case and I think the reviewers have mistaken this hotel for the Hotel Cala D'Or which is a completely different hotel and IS about 500 mtrs away from the beach. To get to the beach is about a 10 minute walk but is fairly straightforward.

There are several resuarants and bars located very close to the hotel and it is also on 2 minutes from the main shopping precinct.As far as restaurants go I would certanly recommend The Diner Which can be found about 1/4 mile away (directions can be found along with a very useful map in the mini magazine that is freely availible in shops, bars etc) Jackie and Andrew will give you a very warm welcome and specialise in traditional english food. Their sunday dinners come highly recommended and they also serve Tetleys Tea!!!.They are very close to a bar called The Hollywood. This is the place to go to catch up on any english sport/soaps etc that you are pining for. The is a very good Indian restaurant opposite the hotel called India but be warned it is a little on the expensive side but meals are excellent. A cheaper alternative the the restaurant Marfil where the choice is wide and prices very reasonable.

This hotel has just come off the Thompson only list and that is why there have been no other reviews yet but it is a very good hotel and I would definitly recommend it to others but be warned it is a very basic hotel and might not suit everybodys taste. It is prehaps more suited for older people as apart from the pool and the pool talble the is little to keep the kids interested. As we got there as the start of the season I am unable to say what the entertainment is like in the bar of an evening as there wazs noneavailible at the time and we had to go out every evening to find our own amusement. \this was easy as the hotel is with walking distance of some great bars. Well worth a look at is Dougans (excellent cocktails and later on if your're lucky the bar staff try their hand at fire eating and juggling lit bottles) and Yates is great for the younger people. There is always something going on be it a barbeque or kareoke nearby.

All in all a thumbs up!

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Es Bolero Apartments - Cala Dor

Operator and Date: Dedicated Holidays - June 2005

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Adrian Richter - Warrington ( 39,38, 7,10)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just Returned from a beautiful holiday in Cala Dor. weather has been superb with tempetature well into the 90s. 

First the Es Bolero Apartments which is situated within Cala Egos which is only 5 minutes by taxi into the centre of Cala Dor and costs 5 euros.The aparments are within the Marthas complex which is big and full of Dutch and Germans, and they are well catered for.They do have several pools, and we choose to stay at the smaller one which was quiet and more relaxed. The complex offers all the facilities but we found it too big. The apartment was basic with no toaster,grill which you could hire. The television had one channel, but you coould hire a remote which i found a bit cheeky.We had no change of bed linen for 10 days. 

Overall if you want a basic apartment and use as a base then fine, otherwise look elsewhere.

Cala Dor is beautiful with lots of beaches excellent variety of resturants and shops and the marina is worth a visit.
We will be going back to Cala Dor next year but to another complex. Prices are about the same as here in terms of beer and food, but the lifestyle is wll worth the price.

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: Thompson - 2007

Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : John Curtis -  Kidderminster  42,39, 14,10.

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Get one thing clear about this complex, the UK tour operators are well down the pecking order when it comes to getting the prime apartment blocks. This is the 3rd time i have been here and on every occasion i have had to fight for a room in a decent block. When you complain to the rep she produces a photo copy of the brochure page that outlines that you may be put in a block across the road. 95% of UK travellers are put over the road. When you get there, wait outside the the best blocks and you will find they are swedish. This is by design. It means you will have a lot of walking to the beach and the complex entertainment. Other than that it is a good complex. 

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland may 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : S Jones - Bristol 37,35,8,6

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

returned here for the third year running and not to be dissapointed again. 

Apartments spotless, cleaned almost daily, pool immaculate(also cleaned daily)within a great location lots of beaches close by also restaurants within easy walking distance, never had a bad meal in any of them. Only down side is the loud karaoke opposite the appartments which goes on till late, which didn't bother us we found ourselves singing along with it by the end of the holiday. 

would return to these apartments again and again!!!

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook/JMC - 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Steve, Shirley and Lauren (39, 36, 3)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Hotel - Unfortunately, we were unlucky enough to be allocated the annexe to the Main Esmeralda Garden hotel block - they are a nightmare.  They are much smaller, noisy and located above a row of shops. 

We asked the Reps if we could change to the main hotel block, but they said there was nothing they could do.  Basically, they were completely useless and a complete waste of time.

Thankfully, after a few miserable days, the directly employed hotel staff managed to relocate us to the main block with everyone else.

Be aware, unless you specific exactly which part of the cala / azul / park / esmeralda / garden, etc, etc, complex, you want to stay in, it will be down to luck whether you get a good location.  Tour Operators should get their act together and clarify this is their brochures - it's very misleading.

Also, most of the hotels in the complex are actually 3 star, not 4 star as advertised in all the brochures.  The main blocks, are clean, spacious and all the directly employed hotel staff are helpful and polite.    

Resort - We didn't think the resort was geared up to adequately cater for families with toddlers (Menorca is much better), although the resort is brilliant for families with kids aged 7 plus.  If you do have a toddler, be prepared to take out a 2nd mortgage on the little rides - they cost 1 euro a time and are splattered everywhere!!

Food - There are lots of good quality restaurants to choose from in town - you can't go wrong.  If you want excellent food, go to the marina.

Entertainment - The only decent place with evening entertainment in Cala D'or is 'Tropical Gardens'.  Toddlers are also catered for as there is a mini disco.  Staff were great.  Drinks were slightly more expensive than elsewhere, but worth it.  Hotel organised shows were ok, but poor in comparison to Tropical Gardens.

Beaches - Nice, but very small.  You need to rise early to get a good spot during high season. 

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland - Sept 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Donna Hills - Kent (60,58,53,38,32,29,8,8,4,4,)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We stayed at these apartments in September 05.  It was lovely....the first thing my daughter said to me was "Mum....its clean!!" Which is was.  Because we went in school term, it was empty.  Our 4 children were the only ones in the pool, which they loved.  Had no problems getting sunbeds, could lay where we wanted to.  There were a few older german couples there, who probably thought they was going to have a nice peaceful time, but how wrong were they when we got there!  The kids werent too nosey, just had a lot of inflatables in the pool.

The area around the apartments is fantastic for children, what with the go-karts and the bouncy castle which was a Bart Simpson head!  Even the adults went on the go-karts....and only ?1 a go, which isnt that bad.  Lots of resturants and bars aswell and also the Karaoke bar just across from the apartments, which did go off at midnight, sometime earlier if the bar wasnt busy. We sometimes went to sleep singing the songs which some people were murdering!

Only went to the beach once, but it rained on us!!!  Although im not a beach person...we did enjoy it and it was busy, not many sunbeds though, so sat on the sand but it was easier being near the sea with the kids running in and out all the time.

Would most definitly go back there again and I know for a fact the kids loved it!

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: August 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Louise Neafcy - St Helens (37, 34,7,2)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Took our holiday at the Esmerelda Gardens mid August, arrived there and had to wait 3 hours before our room was ready: the room we were allocated was the best in the complex, overlooking the beach and the pool.  Stunning.

We stayed half board and had no complaints whatsoever about the food, only downsied was that you weren't allocated the same table each meal time and at certain busier times when you went down for youer evening meal you were running round looking for a table for your family.

The entertainment in the complex was well organised and catered for the children also.

The staff in the complex were helpful and the maids were lovely.

At the poolside there were signs which said no reserving sunbeds with towels but on-one took any notice and by 7.30 am half the beds were taken up with towels (people were going to the pool early morning, placing their towels on beds and sitting on them for a couple of minutes trying to justify putting them down so early, and then going off for breakfast and returning to their sunbeds at about 11 am!)

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland Direct - August 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Gary, Teresa, Thomas, George. (49, 44, 13, 8.)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After reading other reviews we made sure we requested an apartment in the 'MAIN BLOCK' at the Esmeralda Gardens.When booking we were given a choice between -'main block' or 'Annexe'. Low and behold we were put into the 'DREADED ANNEXE'Well, previous reviews were absolutely right!The Annexe apartments were VERY small - on top of shops - opposite a very noisy Kareoke bar.Dreadful!

We went straight to the receptionist complained, and asked to be moved into the main block.We were told we could move into the main block 12o'clock the next day.When we spoke to the 'Portland Direct'  rep about our complaint - she just didn't want to know!

Anyway, when we moved we could not believe how much bigger and better the apartments were, and overlooking the pool.From then on we had a fantastic holiday!

We went Half-board basis - the food was fantastic! So much to choose from! 5* QUALITY!We would recommend this resort to anyone. BUT PLEASE BEWARE! DON'T BE FOBBED OFF WITH AN APARTMENT IN THE 'ANNEXE' BLOCK, BECAUSE YOU WILL BE DISAPPOINTED.
Good Luck!

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland - Aug 2004

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Arrived at Esmeralda Gardens only to be shipped out to another apartment block for one night as it was overbooked. This happened to lots of people ( 15 rooms booked on day we arrived with only 3 available !! ) Was told that each person would receive 150 Euros as compensation and in fairness to Portland they were true to their word and paid in cash two days later.(although other tour operators we understand were not so generous !!) 

Once into Esmeralda Garden apartments we found clean but fairly basic apartments (not really 4* as Portland graded them) but never the less ok. Did also have trouble as we were to be put in the 'Annexe ' which we did not book (reps didnt realise that when booking thru Portland you had the choice between main block and annexe. but after heated argument we finally managed to get rooms in main block. Annexe rooms are across street overlooking karaoke bar and despite what you may be told are not as good as in main block. 

One of the reasons we chose these apartments was because they were advertised as air conditioned, be warned they are but only between 8am and 10am then from 6pm til 8pm. Aparrently because it is so expensive to run the manager decided these times. so was very hot at night when you really needed it!! so make sure you demand at least one fan in your room if available !

Pool area was a little on the small side but big enough although you need to get out early to get sunbeds. Snack bar was fine for drinks but food was in a word 'crap' and expensive.

Immediate area around the complex was ok with lots of english run bars and restaurants as well as arcades and childrens rides with 2 very good supermarkets stocking a very good range, but if you want a little more upmarket you need to head towards the main centre where you will find a good choice of reataurants and bars or the marina area also with several very good restaurants, and to be honest these were no dearer to eat at although the quality of food and service was better.

Overall if you have no trouble getting room in main block preferabally overlooking pool with a fan in you should have no complaints about complex or resort itself if you are prepared to walk for 15 to 20 minutes.

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Esmeralda Garden - Cala d'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson late deal July 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Thomas Marshall Newry, 30

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

A very nice and clean apartment block, our room overlooked a cafe and Kareoke bar, so plently of live music until 12.00 at night. You could sit in your hotel balcony and enjoy all the street life. Very good!!!
The bedroom was nice with air con and as it was at the back of the apartment you could easily go to sleep without hearinbg the street noise.
Very clean too.

Only problem beware the Frigo branded Ice Cream/Hot food bar at the Hotel pool.
I arrived on the Sunday night at 22.00 or so and had sdome beans that we had brought with us.
About lunch time on the first day, I was hungry and asked the vendor at the hotel pool for a hot dog. He looked about in an old looking fridge and told me there were no hot dogs but he could do me a cheese burger. OK i said. I was a little taken aback when he just WARMED  this in a sandwich grille. No hot plate here. I am an Environmental Health Officer and should know better.
That evening more beans and about 4 tins of lager.
I woke up the next morning feeling sick and with diarrhoea, blamed it on the beer but was not the case.
As the week wne t on a got sicker and sicker, cold sweats, running diarrhoea the lot. Lost a stone in weight. On coming home and arriving at my home airport I felt very unwell. Ender up in hospital for a week with a ling infection. Typing this one dat after getting discharged.
PLEASE BEWARE.

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Esmeralda Park - Cala D`Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson june 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Gary Brown-Leeds(71,48,44,39)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Was a little bit worried after reading some of the reviews but needn't have been. Was allocated an apartment in the esmerelda park and given one in N block overlooking the beach and sea and right next to the pool, if we had been able to pick it ourselves we couldnt have done better. Pool got busy but there was plenty of sunbeds for everyone. Apartment was clean and big enough (four adults). Two bed setees in the lounge were comftable enough. First time in cala dor and was really impressed. Lots of nice restaurants and quite reasonable. 

Would recomend and go again.

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Esmeralda Park - Cala D`Or

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Ronnie - Liverpool (43,43,16,13)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

We have been back about one month now and the Esmeralda Park is very nice and the Animacion Staff were truly excellent. The complex is great for all ages with plenty of day activities and night time entertainment.

A word of caution if you plan to go between July - August if you get a late flight to arrive at the resort after 16:00 you have a high probability of being double-booked. This happens to too many people for it to be an accidental occurrence. It is possibly by design to achieve 100% utilisation of the rooms. So get an early flight!
We went with First Choice and were offered 150 Euros compo to spend in the Esmeralda Park only, so it really cost the Hotel about 25 euros (Thompson Guests were offered 160 pounds) and we ended up in the Corfu Marina "All Inclusive" for two nights which was actually very nice, but not what we were expecting then there was all the hassle of unpacking and packing up and so on.
 
The resort is larger than we expected, with plenty of good restaurants, but we only had four days of our holiday due to the double-booking fiasco. The rest of the Holiday was very good and we would go back to the resort again and back to the Esmeralda Park but not in July/August unless we could get an early flight.

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Esmeralda Park - Cala D`Or

Operator and Date: Independant booked - 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Jenny,Dave,Ben and Emily 36,36,6,2

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was our third visit to these apartments and had previously booked a package deal however we decided for this holiday to book direct via Inturotel on the Internet.This was so easy we paid a deposit of about £75.00 for a week's stay in mid May the rest of the cost of the apartment we paid when we arrived.Which was approx £350.00.This we booked with a flight withn Excel airways saved us about £350.00 on a package deal. The Reception was surprised that we wanted to pay when we arrived as you can pay either during or at the end of your holiday.

As we had been before we asked for block H as this is near to the car park ,supermarket and smaller less busy pool.There are not many rooms with pool/sea view you have to be very lucky to get one of these rooms,some have side sea views,views of Cala Azul complex.As we have two small children block H is ideal as it's not too far from the car park to the apartment after a beach visit.
We cannot fault the cleanliness of these apartments as from dawn till dusk staff worked on the gardens,pool etc.Nightime and day time entertainment is very good however we love the centre of Cala D'or so much that we decided not to stick around.

Cala D'or centre has what everyone wants,family english bars/restaurants,or foreign cuisine eg Spanish,Italian,tex mex etc.There is also the Marina which is approx 10 mins walk from the centre of Cala D'or but is well worth a visit.Lots of very nice restaurant's however a little more pricey.
Good places to visit are Western park water Park).

All in all a lovely family resort love it so much wwe will be going back.

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Esmeralda Park - Cala D`Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson October 2004

Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Damian McDermott - Harrogate (35,39,6,4)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

My family and I have just returned from a week at the Esmerelda Park complex in Cala D'Or.

Good, clean accomodation but could perhaps be a little more spacious. Our 2 children shared one of the sofa beds in what is the living/dining area which meant one of the sofa beds had bedding on pretty much all the time. The wardrobe space could be greater too as distinct lack of cupboard/ drawer space.
Kitchen area clean and fridge clean.

Pool area very clean and very safe for toddlers.

Staff friendly and helpful.

Ate once in the evening at the hotel. Buffet style with a large variety of things to eat with children eating free.

We went in the October half term and to be honest, I would not like to go in high season as I suspect the complex gets extremely busy and it is probably difficult to get a space by the pool.

Very, very popular with Germans which is reflected in fact that the entertainment in the evenings was initially in German and then in English. That the resort has so many Germans is no bad thing as it does make for a very well organised complex.

We went on an excursion to Felanitx which included the San Salvador monastery. Market at Felanitx full of tat but the monastery well worth visiting.

Bus to Palma goes from the end of the road and is 25 euro return for 2 adults - far cheaper than any planned excursion.

Supermarkets are pricey but nearest hypermarket some way away.

The main road near the complex is very much geared up to tourist market and features a lot of, to be honest, utter rubbish. Restaurants nearby are very much pizza/burger etc as opposed to traditional spanish food.

Overall, I would recommend this complex to families looking for a break during the half term holidays. Weather excellent save for end of our holiday.

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Esmeralda Park - Cala D`Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Kelvin Porter (51, 46, 18, 16)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I have just returned from my 5th Holiday at the Esmeralda Park. The complex is 1st class and the staff are efficient, friendly and continue to maintain the high standards enjoyed on my first holiday. The complex is the cleanest I have experienced and the surroundings are the best you could wish for.

Places to eat:
El Patio - try the Fillet steak, it's better than most restaurants I have experienced in the UK.
Polinesian Bar - The prices are excellent, and the service is exceptional. I have not had a bad meal there in 5 years.
Arches - A very good Sunday Roast.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: Thomson accom only-June 2007

Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : The Goftons - Cleveland (46,46,4)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Cala D'Or is a beautiful,'low rise' resort with lovely beaches in little coves, ideal for families with children and couples although not much for the young 'Club' scene. The Es Ravells apartments are in an excellent location,over looking beautiful gardens, free form pool and only minutes from the sea and resort 'centre'. (Near the Hotel Sol D'Or) Our 1 brm apartment was on the top floor with a big sunny balcony and very clean and adequately equipped for our family of 3. (Apartments in 3 separate but adjacent buildings- Block 5 probably quietest, then 6 and 7) 

During our stay in 1st week of June, the pool and sunbathing area was wonderfully quiet during the day even 'tho it's open to non-residents (pool,bar & entertainments are called 'Tropical Gardens') . All staff were very friendly and efficient. Good value snacks and kids meals by the pool in the 'Tropical Gardens'. Free kids activities every day and evening. Expect noise from the musical entertainment until midnight but we found it good fun and not unpleasant or painful!!

Eating out: Restaurant 'Different' in pedestrian bit very nice, Dutch/Asian restaurant next to 'The Dumpling Inn' (sorry can't remember name)also very nice for something spicy - Thai,Indian,Chinese/Dutch-Indonesian dishes (meat very good). Very high quality Italian/Mediterranean food in 'Mamma Mia' restuarant -resort centre (next to a big 'Ribs/Steakhouse' place one side and bakery the other)- lovely pasta sauces,the grilled sea bass with garlic and the calves liver especially good and will do kids size pizza if asked. The Mallorquin restaurant diagonally opposite the Mamma Mia is also very fine cuisine and a lovely elegant restaurant serving regional specialities and excellent, family friendly service.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - Aug 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Paul, Sue & Sam  45,37 & 6

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We were'nt sure what to expect as we had never been before, but were suprised that the resort was so nice. The beach was only 5 mins walk away & was very clean, but a little small which meant it was very busy on hot days. the town its self was only about 5 to 10 mins walk away from Es ravell and we couldn't believe how many restaurants there were in the centre, although the touts trying to get you into their restaurants were anoying, but they were ok if you said no thanks. The amount of bars was dissapointing, no where near as many as I would have thought and none as far as i could see had any kind of childrens entertainment apart from Tropical Gardens which was on our door step.

The kids entertainers at TG were great ( Gareth & Ellie )with kids games & clubs during the day, also quizzes & water polo for the adults, and then adult games at night. the tribute bands were great as well, Abba, 4 Tops, Temptations, Madonna & Blues Brothers.

A great holiday was had by all, and judging by the size of some of the other apartments we passed walking around, I'm glad we chose Es Ravell as a lot of the others didn't have a pool.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - june 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : james heslop - 22, 24

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

the apartments were basic but had everything that you would need for a self catering holiday and we did not have to pay for the toaster, kettle etc although we did have to collect them from reception. the apartments were also very clean as was the pool area.

the entertainers, gareth and ellie were fantastic, with the children and adults keeping both entertained through the day and evenings.

the resort itself was very nice and ideal for families and couples

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: Sunset - June 2006

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Fran - Glasgow (23, 26)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The apartments Es Ravell Do'r are a nice basic place to stay. We had a studio in block 6 which was quite small, but there was room in the cupboard to put away all our things and it was an o.k size for two people who were just using it as a base. Only thing I'm surprised more people haven't mentioned is that there isn't any beds, only sofas which you put sheets on?? They were comfortable enough though for our two week stay. The air conditioning was great and our room was always clean with fresh towels when needed.

The pool looks alright, I never went in it but I did sunbathe at the pool a few days and had no problem getting loungers at all different times. The entertainers often kept the kids that were by the pool amused with games etc which were popular. At night when we were getting ready you could hear all the music from the kids disco and entertainment acts. I never watched any of them, but they seemed to be very popular. The music is very loud and in our apartment we could hear everything. It wasn't bad though as for most of the night we were out, but you still heard the songs mentioned previously "Star Trekking" and "Mimic Man", there was also a Spanish song about Chihuahua dogs played a lot.

The resort is lovely, I was surprised at how big it was with all the different areas. We went out for dinner every night we were there, to different places and I don't think we had a bad meal once. There is a few cafes (as opposed to obvious reastaurants) in the pedestrianised centre which do really large ice-cream sundaes of every type which I often had after dinner somewhere else. It isn't a cheap resort, but it is worth it for the atmosphere. The beaches are great, quite picturesque and the marina is well worth a visit both during the day and at night.

It was my first time in Majorca and we had hired a car. We went to Soller and  Port De Soller is a good place to admire the views and enjoy another beach too. Palma is well worth a visit, I went twice and the shopping is great. Mango, Zara and lots of other Spanish shops we don't have in the UK. The Cathedral is stunning and the marina is worth a drive past with all the yachts.

If you are off to Cala D'or have fun!
I would definately go back again.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook  july 2006

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : 31,30,6,2

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The es ravel dor are very basic apartements with absolutely nothing inside that warants them being sold as self catering. You can hire every you might need i.e. toasters,kettles from reception at a cost to you.Remember it is self catering so shouldnt these be included in the price.

We stayed in block 4 which is a bit out of the complex and  you have to walk past the bins and rubish to the pool or take a short cut down a little path that is filled with cat muck and where to our suprise one day they entertainers were having a shooting competion with an air rifle (watch your heads).the swimming pool was also very dirty (check the tiles on the side). 

The evening entertainment however is excellent and the air con in the rooms is fantastic. 

The resort centre is excellent for eating but dont go to any of the restaurants with the touts out side them they are awful.cala dor is excellent and you will not be stuck for things to do you do not need to cook in your apartement (thank god) because the choice is so vast calagran beach is the best but can get very buisy so get there early. Dont let this report put you off you will have a good holiday.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: First Choice - May 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Andrea Hayes - Derby (34,33,7)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returned from a weeks holiday in Cala D'or and cannot find anything to complain about.  Was a little worried after reading some reviews on this site, but our fears were soon put to rest.

We love the resort of Cala D'or and this is our third time back we have not stayed in these apartments before and even though they was on the small side who cares when you are on holiday, we only slept and showered there. 

The entertainment in the Tropical Gardens were fantastic with different bands playing every night, the entertainers (Gareth and Elle) were wonderful with the children and my little one looked forward to going to the mini disco every night.

OK the prices for drinks are a little steep but that happens anywhere.  Weather was fantastic for May and we had a wonderful time.

We would definatley return to these apartments without question.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook Sunset October 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Louise And Stuart - Milton Keynes ( 34, 26 )

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Was a bit worried about resort after reading other comments but all was good.

Tropical Gardens is good for entertainment and the shows are very funny.

Drinks are expensive although i think they may have gone up as we went out of season and the resort was not jam packed.

Dario and the bar staff where great fun and offered a great service.

They joined in with the dancing at the end of each night after the shows which was a good laugh.

Hollywood bar was excellent and ended up there most nights as Tropical Gardens closed at 12.

Eddie the looky looky man was fab and was treated like royalty in hollywood bar, he gives some great deals so just keep bartering with him!!

The best place to eat was Cheers, the portion sizes are massive and the food very very tasty, even our very fussy mancunian friend we met whilst on holiday thought it was great.

Good holiday all round, shame about the weather as it rained for 5 days but the staff all kept us entertained.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook October 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : William Chambers - Scotland (27,23)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returnet home from Cala Dor today.  It was a really good holiday.  We stayed in the Es Ravell D Or apartments.  We had a apartment with a view of the pool/entertainment area.  This suited us fine. 
Tropical gardens were great both during the day and in the evening.  'Shaggy' the children/adult entertainer was a good laugh and very good with the kids.  Lots to do both throught the day and during the evening.  Shows like 'the four tops' and 'grease' were really good.

There were lots of good places to eat in the centre of Cala D or, its just making up your mind which ones to choose from.  Casablanca was very good.In fact most of the places to eat were good!Reasonable prices too.
The weather was mixed throughout the week but this has to be expected since we went in oct.  Still came back with a good tan though!

Overall we both agree we would come back to CalaD Or again and would definatly stay in the Es Ravell Dor

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Sunset 13 September - 20 September 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Leanne Dixon - Paul Beckett - Barnsley (18,18)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We are writing this only 24 hours after returning from the Es Ravells Dor. 

After reading all the other reviews we were very worried about what sort of apartments we had booked. People said it was noisy un-clean too small etc. We arrived on 13th September 2005 outside a white washed apartment block which to us looked beautiful. We went to reception for our key and were greated by a Welsh receptionist named Gaye. She was so friendly and the reception area was clean and tidy with books information sheets post cards etc. When we booked we had asked for a high floor and pool view, when we got our room key we were told it was the very bottom floor. We both panicked as we wanted a nice view. 

As we went into the room it was a nice size, small kitchenette dining table two sofa beds a lovely sized bathroom very clean and plenty of wardrobe space for the both of us. As went to the patio doors we saw a very large terrace area with table and chairs and to our suprise the view was fantasic we could see the pool and all of tropical gardens (a bar in front of our hotel. We were very pleased. 

The pool area was beautiful and sunbeds were never hard to get hold of no matter what time of the day you went down to the pool. Tropical gardens was a little on the expensive side e5.50 for 2 small beers. We didn't go down after that instead we watched all the shows from our terrace and had pizza and a few beers. 

The shows were fantastic every night at 10. There was Robbie William, Madonna, 4 - tops, Renaissance, The Greese Show (brilliant)etc. At the end of the Toni and Dario did star treking the spanish way (hillarious) and the mimi man ( good to join in with). Overall the holiday was so fantastic we enjoyed it so much. On other review they said that block 6 was the loudest we din't find the noise a problem. We shut the patio doors and got to sleep easily. 

Cala Dor itself is absolutly beautiful there are plenty of resteraunts and bars all for resonabile prices. We really enjoyed a litte bar called Toby Jug the meals were lovely and really cheap the owner was so friendly and remebered us when we went again. Just one thing not to have at Toby Jug is the sunday dinner, it was horrible just leave it up to us English to make Sunday Dinners because the spannish aren't very good. Another bar is Cheers meals were beautiful there too. P.Chaves do a beautiful breakfast for only e4.50, the plate was the size of a large frying pan. 

The Cala Gran beach was beutiful it wasn't crowded and there was always a space, there were also little cars up each side where you could have dinner or a drink. The was clear and you coul swim out for miles. Also you can get on a glass bottom boat from here called the Starfish it costs e16 for a 2 hour trip lovely trip all the way to porto colom and back calling in at all the small coves. Overall the holiday was famtastic but we made it even better by going to

The Pirates Adventure on the last night 19 September 2005. This is not to be missed absolutly fantastic we cannot not even try to describe it but all we can say it do not miss out. It was quite expensive at e57 but this was with meals included and free drinks all night. We paid e12 extra to get quarted deck seats wgich were the best seats in the house and we also got a free bottle of champagne between us. 

Cala Dor and the apartments Es Ravell Dor make a fantastic holiday we didn't want to come back at all and wished we had gone for 2 weeks.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson

Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : DEBBIE KNOTT OXFORD 37,5,11,35

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

We went on holiday last summer to es ravells recently refurbished , apartements fantastic!!!!!!Pool area fantastic . Ok the drinks in evening go up in price but its the only guaranteed free evening shows from dusk till dawn. Our kids were entertained by the lovely kids entertainer during the day and they have a mini disco and parrot shows in the week, the guy entertainer is a bit of a fool and loves himself.

The bar staff were genuinly freindly!!!! And up for a laugh and football crazy also great wth kids . I felt at ease relaxed and safe there , one ploicy the tropical gardens has is no lucky lucky men there, guys who sell u rubbish etc which is great. We vebtured out althou we ate breakfast there evry day,fabulous breakfast great snacks and big steaks in the evening , kids menu good value and u can enjoy ur meal whilst they are at the mini disco !!!!!!!!!
In the town we can suggest places not to go!!!! Wet ur whistle ,  british bar more suited to magaluf than a family resort ,, the diner overpriced and we had a horrible experience there where we appeared to have walked in on a family row, we were told to go there but found out it had bin taken over recently, food bad, and bit grubby, cheers oh my god never go there if food comes out that quik after ordering it , roast chicken 2mins ,!!!!!!! It has already bin sat there was horrible.
Try grill world just near cheers lovely currys steaks ribs pancakes free internet fab!!!!
Or eat by the pool at tropical gardens the chef made r stay as memorable as the holiday itself,oli ask 4 him if u go there
booked again for 2006 and looking 4ward to it!!!!!!!

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: August 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Natalie, 23, Surrey

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I was a bit apprehensive about Es Ravell D'or when I booked it as some people hadn't said the best of comments about it but I was pleasantly surprised when I got there.  The apartment was quite big and it had a new bathroom and kitchen.  Not a lot you can do in the kitchen though as there is only 2 hobs to work with!  But who wants to cook on holiday anyway!

The pool is nice and the entertainment is good during the day.  Tropical gardens is very expensive though (a bottle of water is 3 times the price of one from the local shop).  In the evening you're looking at about 9 euros for 2 alocholic drinks!  The entertainment (tribute acts) are good and suppose that's why people pay the prices.

HOWEVER one thing I must say that disappointed me about tropical gardens was the entertainer.  He found it neccessary to flirt with all of the women infront of their boyfriends/husbands, during the day and evenings.  He did it with me quite often and I found it very embarrassing and to a point where I would try to avoid him when I could, especially if I was on my own.  If it were just that then I wouldn't of mentioned it on this website but that fact that when I was minding my own business walking to the pool toilet one afternoon he found it neccessary to grope my Bum when I was just wearing my bikini.  I was so angry that he felt he could do this to me and would've told my boyfriend who wouldn't of taken the news well so I decided to say nothing!  I didn't want it to ruin the holiday.  Apparantly he had written complaints previously about what he's like but he's just ignored them and says he's 'having a laugh!'  However I didn't find it ammusing!  So girls, do watch out!

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Sunset  -    Aug 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : John - Rotherham

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I am writing this review approximately 24 hrs since i returned and i must say that neither of us wanted to come home. this is the second stay in these appartments and we think they are of very good standard. The studios are a good size in my opinion and they have just had brand new bathrooms and kitchenettes fitted and excellent effective air conditioning operates to how high or low you want it.Kitchen areas aren't really suitable for cooking big meals, but breakfasts and snacks can easily be prpeared with clean cutlery etc

During the day the resort of cala d'or has beuatiful beaches all in coves. cala gran is the most crowded however whereas the cala d'or beach is less cramped as it is in an area that if you don't go out exploring your're not very likely to find it as it is down some little streets.
plenty of restaurants and bars with most popular ones with holidaymakers being hollywoods bar, marfils- with the gorgeous jimmy (english waiter) serving you, and cheers and merivent!!!

tropical gardens is a scream!! down some steps from hotel it is really entertaining especially at night with shaggy (shane)the entertainer and laura the kids entertainer. dario and tony make the night really enjoyable, with tony dressing up in wigs and masks etc and with dario changing into different football shirts all night and wizzing beer matts like frizbies. Jose is lovely too, he offers a quick service and has a laugh with you. hes so sweet!!! and also joins in with star trekking and mimic man sometimes. jose the top waiter for fast relaible service with a smile + hes gorge!!. althought drinks are more expensive than anywhere else it is well worth a visiting as you are on you holsidays after all!!   

however we did have to be out of the room for 11 in the morning and did not get picked up intil 1 in the morning. so i would recommend looking up a late check out option etc.

excellent resort, very good accommodation! and facilties.  

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

perator and Date: July - August 2005

Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : 2 Families 40z 16 and 12

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

What a holiday!!! everything about it was brilliant the rooms were nice and the air conditioning was brilliant made the rooms freezing at a night time! the maids were brilliant aswell made sure the rooms were perfectly clean.

The staff in the hotel were absolutly brilliant who could ask for more? ALl the waiters were fab dario, toni and all the rest we all made realy good friends with them they were so easy to get along with.  The two entertainers Shaggy n Laura were brilliant.  Laura was soo sweet and was absoltuly excellent with the kids, Shaggy just mixed with evryone and we had such a laugh with him evryone loved him.  We went with our parents and they thought he was a laugh aswel, he just got along withe everyone of every age! and even though he does flirt nearly evry other entertainer does and its jst harmless fun!! we absolutly loved him!  especially the 'balcony time' where he managed to tell the exact same joke evry night but we all stil luved it! 

Although me and my friend didnt stay for the shows we heard they were brilliant!  if anyone is looking for clubs to go to we stayed at the mad cow most nights we loved everyone in there they played brilliant music, the funky monkey is good aswel bt we didnt realy enjoy it that much and sound republic is a nightclub which we went in only once as the drinks were very expensive.  The mad cow had offers on drinks every night which was brilliant and all the staff were very friendly.

The food in Cala Dor is also brilliant and there are alot of shops aswell.  There is something for everyone in Cala Dor.  I would defintly go back here everyone in the party thought it was brilliant and the staff there became more like friends!!! the Es Ravelle is defintly the best hotel ive ever stayed in and we never heard any noise at a night time as commented on in a few of the other reviews! when u come back from this holiday you will defintly miss evrything about it! especially the staff!!! we all do!

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - June 2005

Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : Lisa & Karen - Leicestershire, 24 & 22

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We went to Cala D'Or on a late deal for four days in June 2005. We had a fantastic time. The Es Ravel D'Or Appartments were very clean and tidy and they supplied you with almost everything you needed.

We ate out all the time because Tropical Gardens is very expensive. The tropical gardens pool is great - really clean area, plenty of sunbeds and brollies throughout the day (you dont have to get up really early and put a towel down). The waiters are all really friendly. We were really lucky to have great weather every day, so we tended to stay around the pool or on the Cala Gran beach.

The shops are good - plenty of clothes shops to look round when it gets really hot in the afternoon.

The restaurants in the centre are great - we went to a gorgeous italian (the Venezia?), a great mix grill/american diner type place (huge portions) and also to a lovely chinese restaurant in the centre (the chinese near the appartments didnt look to good!).

There are some great bars - in particular Linekers where i spent my birthday night out (hi to christian the barman) and the Mad Cow Bar (hi to stuart and jose our other fave bar staff!).

We were disappointed that there werent any clubs open in June although most the bars are open until the early hours and they play great music.

The Es Ravel D'Or entertainment in the daytime was amusing - you cant help but laugh at some of shaggy's lame jokes! We thoroughly enjoyed listening to him sing whilst having drinks on the balcolny before we went out for the night. Karen's favourite was 'Amazed by You'.

Four days wasnt long enough. We would definately go back but it would have been better in July or August when the bars would be busier and the club open.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Sunset - June  2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : susan ainsworth - blackburn ( 46 , 53 )

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The apartments were a bit on small side if there were more of you but for the 2 of us ample. Been refurbished and included free air-coditioning which was great. The bar was a little expensive but great entertainment made up for it, and all music stopped at midnight which is good for families. will most definitly be going back.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by :  Evans party (36, 35, 2)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Was a bit dubious about what we were going to get after reading some of the reviews.
Apartment spotless, cooking facilities basic, but who goes on holiday to cook??
We had air conditioning which is not what we expected as all other reviews complain they had to hire fans.
Shaggy and Laura were fantastic entertainers..the GREASE night is not to be missed.
Bar staff very friendly and even the chef brought us our beakfast out to table nearly every morning as after the first day he was curious to know who on earth had put an order in for "crunchy" toast as toast in Majorca bearly goes into the toaster for more than ten seconds!!
Plenty of sunbeds around the pool,  never had to get up early to put a towel down.

Entertainment each night was great,even the bar staff had their regular spot every night.
We were in block 6, which is the block that we had read was noisy and the worst block....RUBBISH.... we had a great pool view which meant we could sit on the balcony every night after the baby had gone to bed, close to balcony doors so she wasn't disturbed and dance away with the entertainment...
Pirates night is an absolute must,, quite expensive but worth every penny, just dont rely on a Thomas Cook rep to book you in though...ours took our money quick enough but failed to book a table for us!!

in all a great holiday,  go and see for yourselves...

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook 2005

Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Paul Sue ,Jan ,Damon. 55,54,27,7.

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I was a bit concerned after reading the reviews on Es Ravell d'or bot need not have been.The apartment was clean,and although basic,was comfortable.The hotplates were slow to heat up but did work efficiently so you could prepare a meal without too much trouble.The pool area is much as described by other reviewers.Tropical gardens is very expensive ,4.5 euro for a pint of John Smith's bitter! There are Room safes for hire at 14.5 euro Per week.

Entertainment is pretty good in the evening but there is plenty going on in the resort.If you want a brilliant night out go to the Carabel Bar in Cala Ferrera.Happy hour is 2 for one, i.e.2 pints and 2 gin and tonic for 6.2 euro! On the way to Cala Fererra you will pass a restaurant called the Marivent.  It Offers first class food and dink at very reasonable prices.Well worth a visit.Finally back to the entertainment. Shane is absolutely fantastic with the children.He keeps them occupied for an hour or two during tne day and a kids disco before the show starts.

We have been to the resort before and will definitely return.P.S. Don't change your travllers cheques in reception tney take 5% commission      

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset - July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Nigel 35,34,30,16,13,12,11,10,6 and 5

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

What a terrific family holiday! Been back 2 weeks and booked again to go next year. 

The apts were only small and basic but adequate as a base. The only downfall was no air conditioning which was definately needed. We were in block 6 nearest to the pool which was excellent for the kids to have some freedom. Tropical Garden made our holiday and yes the drinks were on the expensive side but with great entertainment and to be served by the gorgeous dario was well worth it. 

The pool was great and sunbeds were always available and Ian and Evonne made great pool entertainment during the day and then kids were kept busy with colouring competitions etc. The best place we found to eat was Walshies just up the road from the supermarket very friendly staff and the food was delicious. Went to a restaurant called Supertramps which, whilst they served up lovely food, they were not impressed with us bringing children which made us feel very uncomfortable. 

The kids loved Mallorcaland (just over the road from Walshies) which kept them entertained.  Hollywood bar was great for the kids to get out of the sun for a couple of hours to watch a video.

Well worth every penny.  Cant wait to return.....  

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook-JUNE2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : HEATHER SMITH - PORTSMOUTH(10,12,38,44,64,67.

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We visited Cala'D'Or before, though a different hotel.  We wouldn't go to this hotel again.

Asked for a quiet block but we were put in block 6 by the music (very loud) We were moved to block 4 in a few days. Grant - the rep was very helpful, and the receptionist were very good too. The brochure states that block 4 is quiet but you can still hear the music a lot and have to shut the patio doors.  Also it's not very scenic, the paths are very narrow and near lots of rubbish bins.  Behind block 4 were spanish flats, so once the music eventually stopped, you got moped's going past and a dog that barked all night, so we didn't get any sleep.

The room was basic, but didn't think we should have to hire a kettle, or fans,etc.
The hobs are very difficult to work, as they all show the wrong dials, so you have to wait half an hour for your kettle to boil. The electrics are very dodgy as they keep fusing so have to go to reception to get them sorted.  The receptionist were very helpful though.

The resort of Cala D'Or is lovely, with a good mix of shops and loads of restaurants, as we were self-catering we had loads of choice.
We especially liked Cheers and The Duke Of Devonshire.  Cheers do a really good breakfast, very good value, and their dinners are good too.
The Duke Of Devonshire was very good, they do a special dinner every day, and the staff there are really nice.
I would definately recommend these 2 places to eat.
We went to The Dumpling and had to wait ages for our meal and were virtually ignored by one young member of staff.

We would visit Cala D'Or again but we would definately not stay at Es Ravel D'Or.  My dad called it Hell's Bell's after Carry On Abroad.  Felt like we all needed another holiday on return.  This hotel is for youngsters only who don't do to bed till 2am.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook June 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : 18, 18, 17, 18, 19

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After reading the reviews on the website i too was expecting the holiday not to my liking, but once i arrived at the apartments i was very pleased. Although the studio apartments are for three people to share they are small, but overall very good and convenient for what we needed on our holiday.

I know these apartments are self catering, but if u do want a holiday where u can eat in i would suggest a larger apartment as the studios only have the basic equipment, which in our case was never used.
The hotel staff were excellent especially tina and Gaye on the reception desk very helpful when we needed them with any problems.

Both reps Matt and Grant were fantastic and also able to help with any problems.

Only thing i would say is that the drinks in tropical Gardens are expensive and if u want good value for money and good entertainment go to the hollywood bar where there is kareoke every night, and sunday spectacular which is just a live show. Also films during day i.e. shrek 2!!

The resort itself meets any age requirements, and would satisfy most peoples needs. where the apartments are situated i would say just a stones throw from main resort eating area. Best beach would be the Cala Ferrera beach as being girls on holiday we were able to get up at 11.00 and still be able to have 5 sunbeds and 2 umbrellas. The other beach is very busy.

Had a fantastic two weeks at these apartments and i would definately return in the near future.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook-June 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Dave Cummings(41,43,46,42,14

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

When i read the reviews on this site i thought i was in for a cr*p holiday,that was,nt the case it was a great holiday.The only let down was the prices in the bar the beaches were great, day trips were really good especially the dolphin show.The best meals we had were in Cheers,The sea horseand the wet your whistle bar served an excellant breakfast.Look out for Spanish parties on the beach normally start about ten o,clock we went to one it was excellant.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset - June 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Chris, Gillian, Lewis & Alex (27, 27, 6, 1)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returned from a 2 week holiday to the Es Ravell D'Or apartments.

After reading the recent reports we were unsure what to expect from the accomodation. We travelled with friends and we all felt the accomodation was of a good standard and the facilies were very good.

The apartments were very clean (cleaned 3/4 times per week), the towels were changed regularly and the self accomodation equipment was very good (all new cutlery and plates, etc).

The apartments are spread over 4 blocks. We were in the furthest away (block 6) and this is allocated to young families as it's quieter. However it took less than 5 minutes walk to the pool. The only problem from this block is the view, as you don't look over the pool.

The swimming pool is very nice and cleaned daily. We never struggled for sun loungers and they were free of charge.

The hotel bar (Tropical Gardens) is one of the busiest in the area as there is a live performance every night (all of a good standard), however the drinks are very expensive.

The hotel is well located as there is a selection of bars & restaraunts all within 5 minutes from the hotel. We prefered the chinese (over the road from the hotel Sol / Spar supermarket) and the American BBQ restaraunt (at the back of the Hollywood Bar).

There is a kids playground nearby called Mallorcalandia, which was quite good.

The local beaches are very nice, however they get very busy at midday. We prefered Esmeralda Beach (which took 15 minutes to reach).

I was suprised how large the resort centre was, there is a fine selection of restaraunts and lots of bars (all suitable for a young family), however im not sure there is enough bars & nightclubs for a lads holiday !

We went to the Pirates excursion & Wild West Waterpark. They were both quite expensive & took over 1 hour to reach, however I would recommend both. They were excellent fun for everyone.

Overall it was a very pleasant holiday, the only negative points is the amount of money we spent (approx £1500.00 +) and the fact that Thomas Cook / Sunset failed to inform us that we are expected to pay the hotel for the cot hire (29 euros per week).

I complained to the rep (on several occasions about the additional charge, as I feel we should have been told before we arrived in the resort). They agreed that we should have been told in the UK at the time of booking and they finally paid for the first weeks charge.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Rachel Seddon - Yorkshire (1,4,9,14,16,35,36,38,40,54,59)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This hotel was absolutely fantastic. The resources were great. There wasn't much for the children to do at night after 9pm orso becase the childrens clubs had finished but during the day they could go to the swimming pool, the beach, play pool, table tennis, and also other games.

There was a bar behind the apartment which was open to the public. It was called Tropical gardens. I t was brilliant. The bar staff were very friendly and spoke good englsh. There were lots of restaurants and a few bars and a couple of clubs. And there were so many shops it was unbeleivable! 

I would definatley recommend this resort and hotel. I am going again next year without a doubt.

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Ian Shuttleworth

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Cala D'or is situated on the south east side of the island, about 50 mins by car or coach from the airport at Palma, Cala D'or is a small town, with many bars and resteraunts and shops. We thought that Cala D'or was a little on the expensive side for eating out compared to Magaluf, we found to be paying twice as much per person, however there are lots of good places to eat so have a look round, we found the Cheers bar reasonablely cheap.

The Es Ravell apartments are made up of 4 blocks, block 1 is above the noisy street bars, block 2 is were reception is situated, and has a good view of the hotels Tropical Garden, the best seats in the house if your watching the very good live entertainment are if your staying in this block.

The other 2 blocks are along the street, we stopped in the last block and found the rooms to be a lot quieter, the rooms are very spacious and accomodate 4 people with no problems, they are very clean and tidy, the kitchens are basic and so are the untencils, however the kitchen served its perpose well. the bedroom compromises of two single beds and a large built in cupboard and safe, the other two beds are in the main appartment, and I must admit they are quite comfortable beds as well, some rooms have the luxury of a double balcony accesible from the bedroom or the appartment room, they are cleaned 3 times a week, and the sheets are changed once a week, we did find that the balcony dividing walls were quite easy for someone to hop over, so DO lock your balcony doors and room when ever your going out! Another annoying thing was the balconys are only half walls, so noise and talking from other rooms is rather loud, so just be aware!

The Es Ravell has a live music area in the Tropical Garden at the rear, they put on a nightly show of some fairly good tribute groups, we saw Abba, Queen, The Temtations, and the BeeGees all were very good but do be aware that the bar prices are a rip off, you will pay 3 times as much for a drink than you would in a bar in the town, so either drink them slowly or sneak a bottle in under the table.

When we booked with Sunset we were asked to pay £20 per person for the coach transfares, that added up to £80, so we opted to hire a car from Palma airport, (book this before you travel about 6 weeks in advance if possible) and drive ourselves there, we got a good deal with Europa Car hire, they did us a family sized car for £140, plus we got to see the whole island and visit the water parks, the savings we made on not taking tour operators trips saved us a fortune. 

Also driving in Majorca is excellent, I would recomend the car hire, we had to vacate our room at midday, so we packed up and drove to Magaluf for the day, popped into another hotel to change then spent the evening looking round Palma, we took the car back at midnight, and got the 3am plane home, this was superb as we did not have to hang arround Cala D'or all day waiting for the coach transfare as many other people had to do. 

so to sum up the hotel and the resort, the resort is small but clean, a little dearer than other places, the hotel is clean, can be noisy up to midnight, and the walk to the beach is about 6 mins, our verdict Resort 7/10 Hotel 8/10, one last tip, get up early for a sunbed by the pool as by noon they are all spoken for.One last thing to mention, they play the same 2 songs all day long and at night, Star trekking and the Mimic Man, be warned aggghhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!

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Es Ravell D'Or - Cala D'Or

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in Feb 2004 by : Harv, Michelle, Harry (30,30,6)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We went from hotel to hotel in the coach whilst travelling from the airport and saw some lovely hotels. We were in high spirits as we had read these reviews,and saw details of the appartments in the brochure and for £1000 a week we expected a nice place. 

We were absolutely devestated when we arrived at our Hotel, our room was a short walk down the road which was covered in food from the rubbis