"The hotel is spotlessly clean. The staff work endlessly to make your stay amazing. There are always plenty of Sun loungers, whatever the time of the day, The gardens are immaculate, just as the rest of the hotel. The food is amazing with plenty of vegetarian options. Comfortable beds and big rooms. There really is nothing that’s not to love. Everybody is so friendly."

"I cannot speak highly enough of how wonderful this place was. From the moment I arrived until the moment I left. The apartment was lovely, air conditioned, had everything I needed. There was a little sandy garden that was mine, which was great for privacy and backed onto the most glorious, quiet beach. The nearest town is a short cab ride away but I ended up walking there and back most days along the beach. The breakfast box arrived every day with delicious food and a huge pot of delicious coffee. Everyone was so supportive and helpful and kind; respectful of space but also kept the apartment cleaned regularly. Leonilda and Fabienne were both there whenever I needed them and provided all the best contacts - reliable cabs, ethical boat tours (so important as there are some awful ones), the wonderful barbeque and local music nights just a little walk away up the beach. In 10 days I went from highly stressed, chest pains, dysregulated human being to completely calm, at ease, able to cope. My sense of self returned. That was not just because of taking a break. That's because I was at Vila Cristina. Wonderful. Just wonderful."

"Repeat customers, and we will be back again! Food: Fabulous, plenty of variety still at the buffet. Fries no issue at all, we had fly fans and didn’t use them. Used them more at home in the UK! Noticed a slip in standards when the place staff started to go on holiday, and Touareg staff started coming over to work. Evening waiting staff stood around chatting at the buffet tables rather than clearing tables, and preparing new tables. The chefs on their phones. Drinks: Slight change since we visited 3 years ago. Sadly can’t make particular drinks anymore due to time and cost efficiencies. Still good and plenty of choice. But top service and hospitality from Anderson, Bruno, Hernany, Rito on Grogue. And thank you to Natzia, Rovaldo, Bruna and Kristian in Ponche. These guys keep the atmosphere upbeat and work tirelessly in the heat to make sure you have a good holiday. Rooms: Typical Riu Palace, large shower, same layout. Sparklingly clean. Just noticed some wear and tear with furnishings looking tired in some places (arm rests/tiles/grouting). Not sure if short staffed or the maids need to fit more into their shifts, but we did find the maid didn’t leave towel art or flowers on the bed compared to our prior visit despite tipping and giving chocolate. Great sleep and felt refreshed! Grounds/garden: Spotless, well kept and pristine. So much hard work goes on behind the scenes. Lobby area/coffee bar: Very clean still, and same layout. Very friendly reception team. I would just encourage that the rugs in the reception area get replaced, they are quite old and are starting to smell, which was noticeable whilst having coffee on the sofa and arm chairs. Glad that we timed our trip to see friends who normally work here. Shout out to Vania for her amazing hospitality, and bringing such joy and care to her work, ensuring everyone has a fun holiday. The customer is at the heart of everything she does. We will be back, and hopefully leave it not too long this time!"

"Bathroom stank of sewage and shower mouldy/very dated. Room basic and very dated. Lots of noise from room above. Hotel public areas very "tatty". Pools not heated. Food very average, no a lacarte options although advertised. Rude reception staff on checkout. Only saving grace was the Chaves beach which was stunning and very clean."

"Μείναμε δύο φορές στο ξενοδοχείο, ειδικά στο προσωπικό, μετά από 3 χρόνια σχεδόν όλοι μας θυμούνται. Η καθαρότητα - εξαιρετική F&B - εξαιρετική με τα τοπικά και τακτικά ποτά - εξαιρετική θυμάμαι μόνο ένα όνομα - Alexandra, η οποία είναι εξαιρετικά χρήσιμη και ευχάριστη κυρία. Το WiFi λειτουργεί τέλεια σε όλη την περιουσία."