I loved the Balaia Plaza - Mick Vernon. Date of travel: Sep 2007
I have just returned from a week at the Balaia Plaza and I must say I didn't want to come home. We were a party of 7 with a wide age range of 73, 69, 33, 31, 16, 9, 8 and we all enjoyed the holiday the same. The apartment was very large and clean, it had everything you should need including microwave, fridge/freezer, tv, cutlery, ect. The beds are comfy, The balcony with table & chairs was nice for breakfast and an evening night cap, and the air con was a Godsend. There is a on site supermarket that is very convinient if not a little expensive. The evening entertainment was basic but fun, the pool and pool bar were both very nice and not too far to walk. The first choice rep was great and was always ready to help with excursions, advice or problems you may encounter. The only downside was that the Algarve is very hilly so the walk to the beach or into the town is a bit of a trek, but this did not take away anything from a great holiday. I would definitely go back to the Balaia Plaza agian.

A great place to stay - Perran Richards. Date of travel: Sep 2007
Three of us came to the Balaia Plaza, it was the first time we have been to Portugal and I must say that we have had a great relaxing holiday. The hotel itself is very nice indeed which has most of the facilities within it. There is an indoor and outdoor pool, tennis courts, pool side snacks are lovely and the restaurant serves lovely food - we ate there four nights out of seven! The supermarket has all your holiday essentials although i would say that it is a little on the expensive side. The room itself was very big and comfortable - the air con was lovely and very essential. The balcony was large and great to sit on for breakfast and to have some cocktails before going out in the evening. The First Choice travel rep was fantastic (thanks Natalie) and although we didn´t want to go on excursions as we were happy laying by the pool, Natalie was always available to offer advice. There is always a down side though !! - I would have to say the lady on the reception has to be one of the rudest and unhelpful people in the world ! The night we arrived we asked for another pillow but was basically told there was no chance and didn´t see sight nor sign of one all week. She looked very stern and unwelcoming everytime we passed through reception and even when it came to checking out she was rude and she seemed as though her job was an effort (I would like to remind her that us tourists who come to the hotel for holidays are the ones primarily paying her wages so I think the least she should offer is a smile ). The Balaia Plaza maids are lovely and although dont speak hardly any English, they are still very friendly. This area of the Algarve is really lovely and the hotel is in a great location for beaches and the Albufeira strip which is great at night. We would definately come back and stay at the Balaia Plaza Hotel again.