Melia Atlántico - Isla Canela

Hotel had lots of potential but sadly not realised. At check-in they wanted the paper "voucher" which we did not have as it was booked while "in transit" but eventually they linked our e-mail confirmation to their system so that they could print it out - all a bit of a faff in 21st century. The room was pleasant with a limited sea view from the balcony. On the first day there was a bottle of water supplied for tea/coffee making but this was not replenished on the second day. A water mark left by a glass on the desk surface wasn't cleaned away, yet I was able to remove it with a tissue and some water! The food at the evening buffet was plentiful and choice was good but everything that should have been hot was lukewarm at best which detracted from the experience and the staff in the restaurant good benefit from some "charm schooling". Breakfast could have been very good but again eggs, omelettes, pancakes were cooked in batches and left to go cold - no wonder there is a microwave in the buffet area - it may have originally been for reheating baby food but sadly it was the only way to make the food palatable. A fire alarm went off one afternoon while we were there and when we reported to reception and asked if it was a drill the receptionist just smiled saying "I know the alarm is ringing!" We stayed in the low season and most other guests seemed to be on golfing breaks, but the hotel itself could do so much better as the facilities are there but service needs improving.