Guest User
February 23, 2025
During our recent stay at Xanadu Makadi Bay, We experienced a mix of both positive highlights and notable disappointments. The resort has several commendable features that can offer a comfortable holiday, though a few areas need improvement. The suite we stayed in was generally very nice and clean. It was well appointed and came with three minibars, each generously stocked with a variety of beverages and snacks. This thoughtful touch added convenience and a sense of indulgence to our stay. The beds in the suite were firm and nice, providing good support and ensuring a restful sleep at the end of busy days exploring the resort. In addition, the cleaning staff consistently maintained the room to a high standard, which made it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The overall weather during our visit was pleasant, contributing to a relaxed holiday atmosphere. The resort benefits from sunny days, but with strong winds. The outdoor areas are well maintained. The pools, in particular, were a highlight—clean, inviting, and with several maintained at a comfortable 29 degrees. This temperature was especially appreciated on cooler days, allowing for a pleasant swim. These elements combined to create a welcoming environment where one could unwind after a day of activities. The staff, on the whole, were friendly and courteous. Many interactions were positive, and several team members went out of their way to assist when needed. However, this positive experience was marred by a few significant service issues. The reception staff, for instance, were extremely slow in responding to guest requests. We encountered a particularly frustrating situation when we requested water to be delivered to the suite while we were feeling unwell. Despite making the request and following up with five reminders, it took an astonishing seven hours for the water to arrive. This delay was not only inconvenient but also disappointing given the overall promise of the resort. Dining at the hotel presented mixed results. The buffet restaurant, while impressively large, was chaotic and noisy, which detracted from the dining experience. The food itself was largely unremarkable, with most dishes resembling various shades of lukewarm brown fried fare. There was a lack of variety in temperature and flavor, and only the desserts managed to offer a pleasant change. Unfortunately, the buffet style of dining seemed to have its drawbacks.Several guests, including 3 of our family, experienced severe stomach illness likely linked to the food. This issue, shared by other travelers, casts a shadow over what otherwise could have been a more enjoyable meal service. Shopping within the compound was another area of concern. The on-site shops were noticeably overpriced, which made it feel as though the management was taking advantage of tourists who had limited options for off-site shopping. This factor, combined with the overall layout of the compound, contributed to a feeling of being somewhat