Jetting off to a winter destination can lead to significant cost savings, but there are various potential drawbacks associated with it. Chelsea Dickenson, a renowned Holiday Expert, recently tested a premier Turkish resort through TravelSupermarket by booking a seven-night stay at the 5-star AKKA Antedon in Antalya for £489 per person in January. This price was compared to £1,729 per person in August, indicating a substantial 72% discount.
Chelsea, who serves as the resident travel expert for ITV’s This Morning, aimed to explore the value offered by such discounted winter vacations. She spent a week thoroughly examining every aspect of the resort, from the amenities to the entertainment options, to assess the overall worth of booking during the off-peak season.
During her stay, Chelsea observed that the primary outdoor pool was closed, appearing somewhat unkempt, which might deter guests from booking pool-view rooms in winter. Nevertheless, an alternative large outdoor pool, alongside the kids’ pool, remained open and heated to a comfortable level. Additionally, an indoor heated pool was available within the spa facility.
The aquapark operated daily from 10am to 4pm, a rare occurrence in the off-peak season according to Chelsea’s experience at other high-end Antalya hotels. The beach area featured loungers on the decking, albeit without parasols or cabanas, with guests adapting by moving loungers closer to the sea on sunny days. However, beach services and water sports were not available during this period.
Facilities such as the gym, spa, kids club, buffet restaurant, patisserie, and snack bar were operational, offering a variety of services and amenities to guests. Chelsea highlighted the quality of the indoor facilities, particularly praising the newly refurbished spa area for its luxurious feel.
Despite some restrictions on services like the à la carte restaurants and beach activities, the hotel arranged a winter activity schedule including fishing, hiking, and cocktail making to keep guests engaged. Evening entertainment was limited to live music at the main lobby bar and the Disco Bar, yet Chelsea appreciated the effort put into providing such entertainment options during the quieter winter months.
Although the resort saw varying weather conditions during Chelsea’s stay, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 19°C and occasional rain, she found the climate to be comfortable enough for outdoor activities. The hotel maintained a decent level of occupancy, with a mix of lively and tranquil periods throughout January.
In conclusion, Chelsea acknowledged the trade-offs of opting for a winter vacation, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness and luxury experience that can be attained during the off-peak season. While not all amenities may be fully operational, and weather conditions can be unpredictable, the significant savings and upscale accommodations make such holiday choices appealing for those seeking a more affordable yet luxurious getaway experience.
