Malpas Hotel Review - 132 of 154 Reviews

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent 4 week holiday as much as the many others here in North Cyprus. My stay covered the period 24 November to 22 December 2013.

The weather was reasonably warm but a little cooler than same period last year, and we did experience a week of the worst weather ever this time of the year but that appears to have been the case throughout Europe. It did not however spoil my enjoyment and I kept myself busy with the Gym, indoor swimming pool, good wifi access and the wonderful staff, most of whom, if you approach them with the right attitude, will try their utmost to help make your stay a pleasurable one. And I even managed to get a few sunbathing sessions in … what more could a guy want?!

The open evening buffet provides ample choice, and in my opinion is more than adequate for most people; refreshments can be ordered and paid for separately. The breakfast open buffet also provides a nice selection to cater for the majority; if you fancy such things as toast and or a rasher of bacon then all you need do is ask the chef as they are more than happy to help if they are able to. A variety of cereals, yogurts, fresh fruit, salads, olives, cheeses, oils, syrups, jams, pancakes, fresh eggs for frying, omelettes, boiled and scrambled eggs, baked beans, potatoes, sausages, pastries, including a good selection of bread and bread rolls are all provided. Breakfast refreshments such as coffee, cappuccino, espresso, hot chocolate, tea, water and juices are also provided gratis for your enjoyment, all during the period 0700-1030 hours, so there's no rush! On many occasions the evening meals were absolutely first class, delicious and well presented and resonated with my personal taste and preferences; i had a job choosing which to enjoy, so i must give praise to the Master Chef and his team .. Thank You!

This time I took my laptop along and the WiFi was very good. For private access there is a charge of TLr 20 for 3 days; having said that, there are two computers at the end of the corridor near the small shop and entertainments room which you can use for free if need to research or use your email.

Normally I rent a car from A-One-Rent A Car opposite the Altinkaya Hotel but this time I decided to enjoy the tranquility of the hotel and its views and facilities and used the shuttle bus at around 1000 and 1100 hours which will take you down to the central car park in Kyrenia and pick you up at around 1600 hours. This service is good and provided gratis for guests. Otherwise a Taxi costs approx. TLr 20 and from a local bus at a bus stop only a short distance walk away, a few Turkish Lire, to get into Kyrenia.

The Casino, should you wish to enjoy an exciting few hours, is a separate business entity and is worthwhile visiting if you like to try a gamble. You can play on the machines with a small wager of around £8 to test the machines. Refreshments, cigarettes and snacks are complimentary whilst you are enjoying yourself there. It can be a little smoky at times.

The Hotel reception will change currency for you and the rate is reasonable and there is an international money withdrawal kiosk outside near the casino entrance where you can use your debit cards. The exchange rate whilst I was visiting was TLr2.80 and down town in the exchange shops you would get Tlr3.30 which is the best I have seen for over 5years! If you are staying a while it may be worthwhile buying a local SIM card. I managed to top up my Local Mobile Phone SIM card with TLr15 which is adequate credit for using during my long stay. It's handy for emergencies and allows your loved ones to contact you quite easily when you are away from the hotel or wifi access. Your phone needs to be unlocked though.

The staff are very good across the board so don't feel shy or be deterred from asking if you have a problem or preference in the restaurant or your room; they are more than helpful and attentive. The guest relations' Angels are also there for your benefit most of the week, and both speak excellent English and good smattering of Turkish. Most staff also can understand basic English once they have tuned into the varied British accents and dialects! Not easy sometimes, even for me!

I always enjoy a slow coffee drinking session and something more when visiting Bellapais Abbey and The Tree of All Idleness, the odd trip down to the Harbour Cafes and another to St Hilarion Castle to remind myself of the beautiful views and past historic connections with the UK.

I AM again very grateful to the Staff (Reception, Doormen, Restaurant, Chefs, Jazz Bar, Wellness Centre, House keeping, Maintenance and even the Manager and Supervisors) of the Malpas Hotel & Casino for making my stay a pleasurable one and I look forward to returning next February for another 5 weeks, hopefully as a VIP 1 this time .. Can't wait!

Liked — The Whole Experience
Disliked — Moaning Brits!

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