6th visit- better than ever! We have not visited R...

6th visit- better than ever! We have not visited Rixos for the last 2 summers after going every summer for 5 years. Last time we came we both agreed it had slipped slightly with the food and service and after speaking with some of the staff, it was clear there was an issue with the lack of Russians visiting due to the political stance at the time. This hotel is 90% Russian/eastern European and as such, it is often difficult to communicate as most staff don t speak English. Fair enough, you shouldn t expect it but it does make it a bit difficult and as such, I would say the Russians get better service without such a communication barrier.

Despite this, I still must give it 5 stars as for value for money, I honestly think it s unrivalled. We are firm fans of Dubai and visit every year. You come to expect the very best resorts out there, and almost nowhere within a 4 hour flight offers the same quality and size of resort. Rixos Premium Belek has seriously upped their game lately. Within the AI concept there is now a fantastic new theme and water park, Land of Legends. We were dubious about this before we came, assuming it was going to be average at best. It s huge and brilliant! Rides to rival Universal Studios and almost empty! No queuing for anything! The water park is really big. Similar to Volcano Bay / Wild Wadi. Also has dolphins etc but we didn t look at that area. Free transfers from our hotel all day.

Back to the hotel, we paid on arrival for an upgraded room. We were due to stay in the Troy houses but we knew from last time that the swim up rooms on the opposite side of the pool would work really well for our family. The upgrade was $100p/n and worth every penny. 2 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2 good sized terraces one with jetty style platform. We much prefer the quieter pool here although if you re a fan of activities and a more buzzing environment then the main pool is also fun.

For kids there is so much. A new and improved Rixy Club has a great water park area, indoor and outdoor activities including a go ape style course and as many slushes our boys could ask for.

You honestly don t need to use cash for anything while you re on resort. Everything you can think of is included. Mini bar stocked with branded treats and alcohol every day, premium brand ice creams at every pool bar, branded spirits, and even a coffee shop takeaway and patisserie for when you re after something between meals. (Not that you ll ever need anything!)

We visited the Meat and Love restaurant at a $45 per head supplement. We were pretty much the only ones there and the service was second to none. The staff were so attentive- glasses never empty, and course after course was fantastic. The menu just says Beef Steak . We asked what type, and then they explained that they have many cuts from fillet to porterhouse and you just choose which cut you like! Our eldest boy (15) had the T-Bone and it was enormous! Definitely worth a visit, you ll not be disappointed.

The one little niggle I would have and it s not a big issue... having been here so many times it would be nice to have that recognised. I m not expecting special treatment, but many hotel chains such as another favourite of ours, Four Seasons, heavily focus on returning guests and often give upgrades for their loyalty etc. Again, not vital but it would have been nice.

We will be booking again for next year for a guaranteed relaxing week away with great facilities, food and drink.