Winter vacations can be a budget-friendly option, but they come with certain challenges. Chelsea Dickenson, a well-known Holiday Expert, recently tested a luxury Turkish resort through TravelSupermarket. She booked a seven-night stay at the 5-star AKKA Antedon in Antalya for £489 per person in January, a significant saving compared to the £1,729 per person cost in August, amounting to a 72% discount.
“I wanted to explore the value of this substantial saving,” explained Chelsea, ITV’s This Morning resident travel expert. “While January holidays can be incredibly affordable, many people are concerned about what they might be compromising on. Therefore, I spent a week thoroughly evaluating everything from the amenities to the entertainment to determine if it’s truly worth booking.”
Her observations included:
The main outdoor pool was closed, appearing somewhat neglected, which might give pause to booking a pool-view room in winter. However, another large heated outdoor pool next to the kids’ pool remained open, alongside an indoor heated pool in the spa.
The aquapark operated daily from 10am to 4pm, a feature not commonly available at high-end hotels in Antalya during winter.
The beach lacked parasols and cabanas, although guests could move loungers closer to the sea on sunny days. There was no beach service or cabana booking option. Despite the chilly sea temperature, some guests still ventured for a swim. The water sports center was closed.
The gym and spa were fully operational, offering a range of amenities including indoor pools, jacuzzi, saunas, hammam, and relaxation areas. Chelsea particularly praised the luxurious feel of the newly refurbished spa.
The kids club, featuring an aesthetically pleasing design, operated daily with outdoor play areas and a separate kids’ buffet.
The main buffet restaurant served a variety of dishes year-round, with some counters closed in winter. Despite the lack of obvious themed nights, the food quality remained high.
The patisserie offered daily cakes and ice cream, while the poolside snack bar provided limited choices like chips and burgers for a convenient outdoor dining option.
In winter, only one of the hotel’s six à la carte restaurants, the Pasha Restaurant, was open, requiring advanced booking for a minimum group size.
Temperatures fluctuated between 12 and 19°C with occasional rain, providing comfortable outdoor conditions for various activities and relaxation.
The hotel’s winter activity schedule included fishing, hiking, and cocktail making, offering guests engaging options similar to those available during the summer season.
While the outdoor entertainment area was closed, live music performances in the lobby bar and nightly operations of the Disco Bar provided unexpected entertainment options.
The hotel experienced varying levels of occupancy throughout January, with a livelier atmosphere during the early part of the month due to Russian Christmas holidays.
Chelsea concluded that while winter stays offer substantial cost savings, they also come with limitations such as weather dependence and reduced amenities. However, for those willing to trade guaranteed warmth for significant discounts and a chance to experience upscale accommodations, off-peak vacations present a compelling option.
The hotel has been approached for additional comments.