We just spent 7 days at Spice Island with our two children- 4 and 6 years old over the New Year holiday. We had a very chill and nice relaxing vacation. We gave this hotel a 4.5 stars overall. Main reasons the hotel didn’t get a full 5 stars: 1.) Not a private beach 2.) Inconsistent Service 3.) A little tooo chill for a full 7 days Room- amazing room right on the beach, enough space for the 4 of us. It was comfortable and had everything we needed. Waking up and walking out on the beach every morning was so convenient and beautiful. If the kids needed to relax or grab something it was so close. I didn’t like how close locals or anyone on the beach could see inside the room or get close to it. More on that below… Food- We definitely had some amazing dishes. The ice cream was unreal and some of the dishes were so flavourful. We were never hungry, thats for sure! The lunch menu got boring after 4 days. Would recommend a change up. There are 2 restaurants about 7 meters apart. Some days the service was incredibly slow, waiting 2 hours to finish a meal service. Some days it was faster. The slow service made it a pain at times and felt like a waste of the day. Kids Club- Kids had so much fun making crafts and playing with other kids. It was indoors, not much outdoor activity. Spa/ Gym- nothing over the top but it gets the job done. The gym had all new technogym equipment. We had a couples massage and it was nice and professional. Pool- The kids enjoyed it and had fun playing. Chairs were always available. Sometimes the pool area wasn’t the cleanest. Old towels and empty cups sitting around. Staff- some staff were incredibly friendly and warm and some were just not and made you feel uncomfortable for even asking for something. It was very bipolar service. They need consistent and proper training. Beach- This is what I struggle with most. The sand and water are so beautiful. Turquoise warm water. Soo gorgeous. Butttt… the locals drinking, music, swearing, laying on top of each-other was not my vibe. My kids crocs and sandals went missing from the beach. The security was there but sleepy and never said anything and sat by a palm tree all day, didn’t walk up and down. These locals are right next to your belongings and so close to the room that it killed it for me. I get that it’s their country and public beach but I just don’t want men drunk with beer bottles in their hands talking to my kids and my kids saying they are scary mommy. Teenagers humping on the beach. Cruise ship people pulling up towels next to us. Not my vibe!!! Some people might not mind and this might not bother you but for me it was a huge safety issue. I couldn’t take my eyes off my 4 year old daughter. The road and public beach were seconds from our room and spot on beach. Vibe- not much going on, a little sleepy. It was nice to relax and not feel any stuffy or pretentious vibes. It was truly super chill. A few more entertainment pieces to spice it up would have been nice.
The property was nice and clean. Wonderful view from the property although must be fit to climb the hill. For the kitchen area I would recommend that some shelves be made over the fridge to a commode the microwave, plate and some space to do make a sandwich. The drains outside the property by the road, had a stench, so that needs to be looked into. But I would come again. All the staff I met were very friendly and help full. And I would recommend to all my friends and families. Continue the good works.