| Holiday-Truth Readers Reports |
Sharon from Essex travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland
on a singles holiday.
There were 2 adults and 3 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2008 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness |  | | Location |  | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment |  |
| said: 2 weeks all inclusive, not the lovely holiday we expected mainly due to the noise from the Hotel being built IN THE HOTEL GROUNDS NEXT TO THE POOL.
The tour operater neglected to mention this when we booked or during the following 8 months, although the building work has been going on for most of 2008.
In short. the Hotel is noisy, the pool is noisy, the sound of the banging and hammering sometimes, carry right down to the beach and affect the Marhaba Beach as well.The food is run of the mill, you have to fight the russians for it.The Pool Dining Room is opened for the English, but the food choice is very limited.The Beach and Beach Bar are fine but it seems to close at 5 p.m.So does the Pool Bar.
The animation team are extremely good,but limited.
The activities seem to take place regularly.
Take your own Golf Ball, Tennis courts always empty but you will be told thay are fully booked ( or was that because we had our own equipment). The squash courts are closed.
Both Disco's are a bit seedy and suffer a dubious clientele.
If you want to spend 20 minutes in a queue everytime you want a drink (of any kind) go A.I. if not go half board (which will mean you can wander between all the Hotels on the complex and cherry pick the best on offer).
Staff seemed fine unless you had a compliant then they didnt speak your language.
Hotel hygiene, seemed good in public areas, service areas however left a lot to be desired.Carpets in the Halls are absoultely dire.
Rooms were kept clean, air condition unit dripped through the ceiling and created it's own puddle.
No hairdriers in rooms, 30 dinar deposit to hire a remote for the tv.
Click here for more information on this hotel, resort and region
|
| |
ball from bristol travelled to Tour Khalef with
thompson
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2008 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness |  | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just got back from tunisa,spent two weeks there the weather was great,the hotel is really nice and the staff are really friendly,everything is kept clean and tidy,my children went to the kids club and really enjoyed it,there was a disco on the night for the children,and entertainment as well,bingo and dancing.the food at the hotel was good,but there are alot of russians,and they seem to push in and take all the food,the staff had opened the snack bar by the pool just for the english to eat.We found this very good as you can sit out side.i have been to this hotel in 2oo4 not alot has changed and i would go back again
|
| |
Trev from portsmouth travelled to Tour Khalef with
thomson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2008 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food |  | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just got back from a weeks stay at tour khalef with the wife and 2 kids.
Hotel was clean ( not so sure its 4 star though, more like a 3) and most of the staff were pretty friendly especially the maids who went out of their way to arange my daughters pyjamas in fan shapes and making swans out of the hotel towels. This was a nice touch that amused the kids.
The swimming pool was also clean and always a waiter near by to bring drinks out to your table for a small tip. The beach was just a 2 minute walk from the pool and was also pretty clean although not the clear seas you get in places like the carribean so snorkling was a waste of time.
The evening entertainment was ok and funny at times, which included kids disco, bingo, shows arranged by the hotel animation team etc...
The weather whilst we were there was very sunny and hot, in the 40`s for the first couple of days before cooling slightly as the week went on. No complaints there!!
The 2 main things that ruined our stay at tour khalef which were also echoed by many of the other english there was the very poor food and the rude russians.
The food was amonst the worst ive had to eat on foreign soil, a fair selection but it was still hard finding anything that was worth eating. Breakfast was not even worth getting up for and evening meal was only slightly better.
The best place to eat the evening meal was by the snack bar at the pool as this where most of the english holiday makers sat and the atmosphere was much better than in the main restaurant.
The main restaurant was heaving with russians which easily out numbered the english, russians must be the rudest people ive ever met in my life. You find out after a couple of days that you are just wasting your time with them as they dont hold doors for you and when you hold the door for them they just walk through with out so much as a smile or a thankyou in russian.
The nearby resort of port el kantaoui seemed a much nicer resort in the whole with a bigger selection of bars and restaurants which works out about £3 each way in a taxi or a tuk tuk
All in all tunisia was a very cheap country for food, drinks and gifts with ok beachs and fairly friendly people but highly unlikely we will ever go back as there are so many better destinations.
|
| |
Marlar from Bedfordshire travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland Direct
on a family holiday.
There were 3 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2008 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment |  |
| said: This was our second visit to the Tour Khalef. (Aug 2004 was the last time) There is some building work in progress with the planned spa opening in Dec 08. The noise is bearable and didn't detract from our holiday.
However the Russians with their ignorance of queing in the restaurant was much to be desired.
We did see one who took the whole bowl of apricots and just walked out of the restaurant leaving us with nothing!!!! The choice of food was limited but there was enough for us as we are not picky eaters. The desserts were delicious.
For Thomson clients the staff opened the cafe by the pool for the Brits only so we could avoid the Russians if we chose.
All the staff were just as helpful as on our previous visit as long as you tipped them the odd dinar. The entertainment team were great, Chico, Anya, Nino and the others worked really hard.
The chamber maids were great, please tip them, they are the hardest workers with the least pay.
The Thomson rep, Fheti was very immformative and full of tips ( he's very amusing too)
All in all we had a great holiday, and yes we will go back but not for a few years.
We did the Zulu experience, Pirate trip (not great)
Aqua Palace (Not huge but enjoyable) and the camel caravan which was great.
Just one downside everytime you had your photo taken it would cost 2-4 dinars which does add up at the end of your excursions.
|
| |
|
|
Sally from Skegness travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland Direct
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2008 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said:
My wife and I stayed in the Tour Khalif for two weeks at the beginning of May 2008.
We have been to this hotel a number of times before and each time we have enjoyed our holiday.
Building work going on, expected to be completed at the end of 2008, building a leisure centre, we did not experience any noise, they have closed one block adjacement to the building work for refurbishment.
Evening entertainment has certainly improved, now held outside on the terrace, the entertainment team work very hard to ensure everyone has a good time.
Rooms are large, spacious with a large ensuite bathroom, daily maid service keeps the rooms clean,
no problems with the lifts.
There are a number of steps around the complex, which could be a problem if you have walking difficulties.
Excellent swimming pool including a childrens pool and play area, beyond this is the wonderful beach complete with beach bar.
We went all inclusive which we found worked out cheaper in the long run, thats just with food
and coffees, not counting ice creams and drinks etc.
Good restaurant with improved self service areas and display cooking, you have allocated tables for the length of your stay which can cause a problem at times.
Food acceptable bearing in mind the number catered for, nice salad bar, excellent fresh pasta cooked whilst you wait, plenty of fruit.
Staff could not do enough but expected a good tip prior to you leaving.
All in all a very enjoyable holiday if you get on with the Russians!!!!!!
|
| |
Mary & Eleni from Corfu Greece travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland
on a family holiday.
There were 5 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 12 2007 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Last visited this hotel over 25 years ago. Loved it then, and love it now. Staff were very welcoming and helpful (that's the way they are).
Although the hotel wasnt busy, the staff did their utmost to offer the best service they could... from reception, to bar staff, maids and entertainments, well done to all of you !
Food was sometimes a bit repetitive, but there was always something for every kind of taste. I cant believe some of the reviews. Do these people not pick up a brochure before they book ?
It seems as if some of them do not know where Tunisia is !If they wanted Blackpool, that's where they should have gone and left the rest of us to enjoy our holiday in peace.
Thanks to Mohammad, Asheref and Anna for keeping us entertained, when most of the guests couldn't be bothered to do anything, just complain that there was nothing to DO!!!
We will be returning to Tour Khalef again as soon as we can.
|
| |
jayne spridgeon from peterborough travelled to Tour Khalef with
portland direct
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 09 2007 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: first impressions on arrival were pretty good lovely reception area and very pretty decor!!
room itself was adequate and clean could have done with a little updating.
the reception staff were a bit unhelpful at times and the other russians and polish in hotel were very rude.
the location of the hotel was ok it meant u had a little walk into town but if u didnt want to walk there was a tuk tuk train and taxis a plenty.
be aware when u walk into town u get pestered to buy things and if u are two women u will get hassle even more.the beach in hotel was lovely but you get pestered on that aswell.
we used to sit around the pool but the entertainment was total crap all these three lads did was areobics and salsa...........in the evening it didnt get much better.
although there were bad points we still had a good holiday and didnt let this put us off we would visit tunisia again but stay in a different place and hotel.
|
| |
naomi from england kent travelled to Tour Khalef with
tomsons
on a family holiday.
There were 3 adults and 4 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 09 2007 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: My hotel was lovely I loved it and so did my family. The maids are really nice the clean you room very well. The staff at the hotel are lovly they will tell you were to go they loved my little sister they always made her laugh.
The view from the room that we stayed in was got because we could see alot of Tunisia. The entertainment was brillent I loved it and so did most of my family.
I would like to thanks the hotel staff and the animation team Anya and the boys can't remember all there names but you were great.
|
| |
Alan Sims from Doncaster travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland
on a friends holiday.
There were 4 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2007 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Returned last night after a week at the Tour Khalif.
The hotel is in a great location beach wise, having its own private strip with free sunbeds, you just tip the guy in charge a couple of Dina.
We found the hotel to be clean on the whole apart from the corridors leading to the lifts/rooms. For some reason this is were they have the pool table. All day this was a haven for the local kids who played pool all evening so you have to squeeze passed them to reach the lift.
The hotel seemed to be frequented by a lot of locals at night, and they outnumbered the other guests. Plus there was a tennis tournament on at the hotel and they were all staying there.
Food was overall quite good. Don't expect to go there and expect English cuisine though, if you want that go to Blackpool/Benidorm. We always found something nice to eat with a good, varied selection. A bit hectic at busy times. Big selection of sweets and ice cream every night. We stayed full board and found the lunch time selection was good, always plenty of salads. You get the same table every meal time and the same waiter, and the service was first class. Main problem we found was the parents who let their children run around the dining room unsupervised and let them get there own ice cream from the buffet. Quite often I witnessed a 6/7 year old with his fingers in the ice cream tub, so we gave it a miss.
Hotel staff were very good, nice and friendly.
There was entertainment every day, dancing karaoke, local dancers etc. plus a resident Thomson couple(the oldest Reps I've ever seen) and they organised trips/dancing for the older holiday makers. There's a young local lad working on the entertainment team called Rami and he was great, never stopped working, organising bingo and the like. He set up the screen for the football so we could all watch England V Israel.(Wish he hadn't bothered, usual dire performance) My wife wanted to bring him home with us but I put my foot down. He's only 18 and works for free during the winter months to make sure he has a paid job in high season.
We went on a Thomson 3 cities tour. Be warned. The morning is mainly about trying to sell you a carpet. They take you to a carpet factory and before you realise it you are in a room were they give you a coffee and go through the whole stock list of carpets available. Don't go in. Have a walk round the market instead. After that though you are taken to a 5* hotel for lunch which is excellent and then onto Eldjem to see the ruins. These are breathtaking and well worth a visit. Very tiring day.
Sousse itself is a very busy town with a port and loads of shops. I think my wife visited every one of them, I have the blisters on my feet to prove it!! The Medina,or market, is an experience in itself. You cannot walk 3 steps without being hassled by the stall holders. If I never hear "Asda Price/Luvvly Jubbly/'ave a butchers/Cheap as Chips again it will be to soon. And you can buy the same stuff at the same or cheaper prices in the shops with out the haggling. Still its all part of the game.
Taxis are dirt cheap. 4 Dina's (about £1.70 ) will get you a 5 mile journey to the nearby towns. Make sure you agree the price before you get in though. And be picky because some of the cabs look as though they belong in a scrap yard. One we were in had a nice view of the road through the hole in the bottom of the door. I think its Tunisian air con.
All in all we had a great holiday, although the weather was disappointing, very windy some days and cold and rainy. When the sun did come out it was great. We wouldn't go again at this time of the year but maybe in October for a short break.
Loads of Brits at the Hotel had been there for a month. Prices are very cheap, as a couple we spent about £170.00 and that included the trip. Drinks were fairly cheap with a good selection in the hotel.
When you arrive and want some water dont buy it at the hotel, they charge about 2 Dina for a bottle. If you go out of the main doors there is a path opposite that takes you onto the main road. On the right there is a supermarket and you can buy a 6 X 1ltr pack for 3.300 Dina (£1.35).
All in all we had a nice week despite the weather.
Just a footnote: Everything in Tunisia has a price. When you go into the towns you will be approached by Smartly dressed men who offer to show you the way to the main sights. They want paying and you can't get rid of them. If you take photos of a man with a camel, he wants paying. Just be careful and practice saying NO before you go.
|
| |
|
|
Tour Khalef from Sousse travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland Direct
on a singles holiday.
There were 1 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 11 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: I shall never stay anywhere else again.
The staff are hilarious, the hotel is comfortable and the food is out of this world.
I can only travel in the winter so the days are short but there is always something going on.
The best day out was to Friguia Park animal reserve and the best way to go is by train but only 2 a day or so stop there, so check at the main station. It is on the main line from Tunis to Sousse.
|
| |
Gyongyosi/Hughes from Bolton travelled to Tour Khalef with
Airtours
on a family holiday.
There were 4 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel itself was quite nice - 'grand' lobby area with plenty of seat's. We weren't greated as nicely as we could have been - our bags were whipped off us without being asked. When we got to our room - it wasn't what we had booked (and paid) for at all. They expected my mum and dad to sleep in the same room as me (25yrs) and my son (we were given bunkbeds). The bunkbeds were not safe for my 4yr old son at all, plus they blocked the whole access to the balcony. On complaining to reception, my mum was expected to pay £250 just to upgrade the room (to the one we had bought and paid for in the first place). This was not a good start to the holiday. We were told later in the holiday that other people had been upgraded without charge for things as simple as their room hadn't been tidied. Why did we have to pay - we are still waiting for an answer from the tour company as it seems to be a problem with the booking from their side.
We were moved into a much more suitable room, that was in closer proximaty to our other family members room just around the corner. His room was spacious and overlooked the entertainment area. The beds were changed everyday, and room cleaned. Our room had a very nice view of the garden area and sea/beach. Our room didn't have a fridge which would have been nice for half board and storing water/food for dinner. We used the bath/sink full of cold water to keep the bottles of water cool(ish).
I would recommend bringing spirits from the airport rather than buying them there. Wine and beer were cheap - think the beer is 2% so if you like stronger get that from home too.
To me the hotel was clean - always saw cleaners in the morning - but the hotel doesn't live up to the 4star badge. It needs some work doing - to me 4star should give better finishing touches. The shower head kept falling off - and this was not repaired in the 2weeks we were there for.
As the day goes on the toilets run out of toilet paper(so may need to ask for that), plus they get smelly/dirty floors).
We went for a family holiday which is what we got - spent our nights chatting on the balcony - nice view - but the entertainment was much too loud. We had the noise from the repetitive kids disco (that must have damaged their eardrums), plus noise from the Italian entertainers that went on till 12 at night. This is not late to me and just right for holiday entertainment - but it was just much too loud for the size of audience that was there. Even my son was getting irritated at the end and just wanted quiet.
The pool was nice and there was always someone to help get mattresses for the sun beds. We were always able to find a spot to sit by the pool - enough for all - but it was a struggle to move sun umbrella's sometimes.
The Italian entertainers came on at regular/lengthly periods during the day - they didn't bother me - but if you like quiet by the pool they may bother you. They all seemed nice and didn't pressure you to get involved if you didn't want to.
There is a beauty spa that my mum used and got great value for money for a pedicure and a body massage - she recommends it!
The food by the pool was pizza and chips or bagguettes - I didn't like them - quite boring - but the Tunisian salad was ok for a change - but that got dull pretty quick too. Also fruit of the season - which is basically melon when we were there.
The hotel food was good that it had to cater to lots of different nationalities - they had mash, and apple pie with custard one night! Must have been British night. Lots of bread, salad, veg, chicken, meat, potato's - so it was good and could have been worse. But after 2weeks you just want some good home cooking. Think they could have done more couscous - is that not what Tunisian's eat? If your kids are only used to eating junk food then maybe they will struggle - but if you follow Jamie Oliver and avoid chicken nuggets for their growing bodies then they may be able to cope with what the hotel offers. There is a selection of cakes, and also melon/fruit for afters.
The waiters were mostly friendly (apart from one strange one working in the lobby). We didn't tip due to having a quarter of our holiday spends taken by the reception in the first hour of entering the hotel (for the room situation), but we did choose to wait till the end of the holiday and tip the waiters who had been of most service/help to us.
The hotel seemed to use lemons for the insect problem - I didn't see any bugs whilst we were there and didn't get bitten once - which is not like me as I am usually covered with red swollen bites!
I think overall we had a good holiday because we got what we went for - family holiday doing our own thing - strolling on the beach - not doing too many activities just relaxing.
The hotel was on the beach practically, and there were taxis/tuk tuks/land trains to get to were you wanted. I think Tuk Tuk is the best way to travel - quick and breezy.
I would have liked to go for only one week not two as it got a bit much after a while.
I am glad I went but glad to be home.
|
| |
Elaine & Mark from Birmingham travelled to Tour Khalef with
First Choice
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 3 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Visited Tour Khalef in July and found the weather fantastic.
The location is brilliant, on the the beach which is very clean and safe, the sea was like a bath and the hotel club provided ample entertainment on the beach if you wanted to join in.
Our children found the arobics in the sea very entertaining.
The hotel staff were very nice and friendly if you took the time to talk to them.
The food was always hot and the soup was very good, if you took the time to look around there was always something to eat. (fresh bread, fruit, chips, spag bol).
Not much to do at night, Kids disco a bit repetative, we used to take the tuk tuk train to Port el Kantoui which is a lovely marina with bars and shops. Not so keen on Sousse a bit too hot to walk around a town, and didn't feel so safe.
We would visit Tour Khalef again it was good value for money, its the first time we have ever bought back any spending money, ice cream parlour by the hotel was excellent value for money and nice and cool on a very hot afternoon.
|
| |
Deborah Laverton from Washington travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thgompson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The corridors in the hotel were dirty and in need of decoration.
During the full 2 weeks there was a strong smell of paint. One morning we found a large window had been broken,glass all over. This was not repaired until several days later.
The toilets were usually clean early morning, however later in the day, toilets were blocked and the smell was awful. Soap dispensors did not work so you had to lift the lid off every time you needed to wash your hands.
Our room was ok however could have been cleaner. Then bathroom was in need of upgrade.
The dining area was filthy, table cloths were rarely changed. The decor was dismal with little ventilation. There appeared to be a strict regime for seating at a particular table however it was not unkommo to arrive for a meal and find others at your allocated table. The food was worse than diabolical. I advised my husband on several occasions not to touch particular food as it looked uncooked. There was very little food our daughter could eat. We were both ill during our stay. Our daughter became ill two days before leaving.
On our return home she was diagnosed with salmonella poisoning. This is currently being investigated by Thompson solicitors.
I am appalled Thompson can promote this as a 3-4 star family hotel.
|
| |
Leigh Davison from Newcastle Upon Tyne travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompson
on a family holiday.
There were 1 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: I stayed in Tour Khalef for 2 weeks in June 2006 with my 7 year old daughter, we booked through a Thompson late deal.
We found the hotel and staff excellent throughout our stay and would strongly recommend it to others.
When we arrived at reception my daughter felt poorly after the long day travelling, despite a queue we were hurried through the check in proceedure and the porter had quickly guided us and our bags into the spacious room.
There was plenty of wardrobe space and the bathroom was clean, the shower had pretty consistant water pressure and temperature most of the time, we had a small balcony with a table and 2 chairs, this overlooked the huge terraces and gardens and provided us a postcard view of the coastline.
We were 5 floors up and there are another 2 storeys above, if you are with small children be aware that the balcony chairs provide perfect climbing frames and the railing is not that high.
The TV in the room requires a remote for use, this could be provided by reception for a 30 dinar deposit, we didn't bother as we had taken our stereo with us and there are power points there to use.
Some rooms have a small fridge in the cupboard under the TV.
The rooms were cleaned daily though sometimes the maid walks straight in without a knock! towels were changed, a 48 hr laundry service is available through the maid at reasonable cost too (cost me 11 dinars for 7 t-shirts and a pair of shorts).
A safety deposit box in a room next to reception costs 1 dinar per day and 30 deposit, you can change your stirling and travellers cheques there for the fixed standard rate, make sure you get a receipt though, the first night I didn't and got 20 dinars fewer than I should've.The rate was around 2.4 to the pound when I was there.
At the front of the hotel is a dirt path to the gates, outside there is a number of shops, bars and restaurants, there are a couple of cash points here, several phone boxes too.
I particularly liked the indian restaurant, there was also a fast food 'Imbiss' that did burgers and chicken nuggets for fussy eating kids.Be prepared for the many street traders and flower sellers on an evening though.
The hotel main entrance opens into a huge expanse of marble, there are plenty of sofas and chairs in the lobby which expands in to 2 huge bar areas, one for paying guests the other for all inclusive.
The pay bar is nearer the dancefloor area, where the entertainment takes place, beside the bar is a pool table and a few old arcade machines, it costs 2.6dn for a Celtia beer and 1.7dn for a bottle of Coke or 7up, the spirits and are sold a lot cheaper at the sister hotel 100 yds along the road, expect to pay at least 7-10 dinars for a small shot of Whiskey or Vodka wherever you go, brandy is little cheaper at around 4-7dn.
Each night around 9pm there is a kids disco, they sell discs of the music they play for 5 dinars, by the end of the first week thankfully the novelty had worn off with my daughter, the same annoying songs and the accompanying dances are played around the pools/beaches and in Sousse centre with seemingly unrepentant regularity.
I thought 'Star Trekkin' had been laid gracefully to rest in the mid 80's but, oh no it's back with avengence along with Black Lace's 'Superman' and the like!
The entertainment was pretty good all in all if you get in the spirit, the band was surreal, singing 'Money for nothing' with arabic accents and a Tunisian Noddy Holder lookalike, there was also a very good nailbed and broken glass standing act, a belly dancer, a karaoke, more dancers etc. etc.
If you pay for your drinks you can use the waiter service, they do expect a tip though!
One waiter told me they get paid roughly 320 dns a month (£150) and rely on tips to bolster wages, I found by keeping one waiter each night and accumulating receipts I was only tipping once at the end of the night rather than after every drink, that way they have a vested interest to give you good service(which they invariably did).
The all inclusive guests have to get up and queue and have their wrist band scanned for each drink.
Opposite the hotel entrance are stairs that lead downstairs to the restaurant, the kids club is also in this area, there is a shift system to eat, earlys get 7-8am breakfast and 6.30-7.30pm dinner, and 8.30-9.30am and 8-9pm for lates.
I found the food ok at best and an ordeal with a fussy child at worst prefering to eat away from the hotel around half the nights there, it's all buffet style, breakfast there are plenty of fruits and yoghurts, eggs, frankfurters, pastries, croissant, ham, cheese, fresh bread, coffee, tea, hot choc etc.
Towards the end of the holiday I heard there was now cereal for the kids, but it was very rarely we made breakfast anyway.
As I was half board I can't comment on Lunch but dinner was very samey, usually a pasta dish, loads of salads, a seafood dish, turkey or chicken, braised beef or liver(another parent commented that it was like 2 weeks of atkins diet!).
If you are NOT all inclusive then go through the right hand doors where there is another quieter buffet table, this avoids queueing with the mainly Russiian all inclusive guests who will push in and pile up their plates as high as they can get.
Also always plenty of fresh bread, veg and loads of melon slices (if the Russians don't get em first), ice cream and pastry style cakes.
If I had a critisism it was that for kids there was little aimed at them, hence we ate out around half of the holiday.
Aziz the photographer plies his daily wares outside the restaurant and charges 3 dinars for any photos he's taken of you around the pool that day.
This was my first time abroad as a single father with my daughter and I was a little apprehensive, the kids club proved to be perfect way for us both to make friends.
Kids club was run by 3 young female Thompson reps, Kate, Claire and Jodie, they were fantastic!!
My 7 yr old was counting down the minutes to each session, I really can't thank them enough.They had choco parties, who's the wettest link, superhero night, ghost stories, barney bear for the littluns' to name but a few activities.
Each daytime session was 2 hrs and times varied depending on the kids ages, all ages seemed to be together for the evening hour and a half session.The girls had Saturdays off and were on airport duty on Wednesdays, all other days had at least one and sometimes 2 sessions.
They providied the kids with shirts and hats and also handed out certificates and prizes for many activities, a couple of times they charged 3 dinar for the parties if they had any extra expense.
Through meeting other parents at kids club, soon there were groups of families congregating around the pool/bar or wherever all chatting and the kids playing happily together.
Walk out through the back of the hotel across the huge terrace, down a few stairs and through the gardens, there the pool is pretty big and lively too!
You could use the sister hotel pools too if you wanted a quieter area, be prepared to get up early or tip the security a couple of dinars the day before if you want a good spot by the pool or beach though.
I was quite happy reading my book in the shade of the poolside snack bar whilst the kids played in the pool, my regular waiter there was the only staff member who always flatly refused a tip once I got to know him, he would tell me tales of him and his friend's conquests with the Russian girls the previous evening!
This proved also to be a great place to eat, a pepper steak was 10 dn, whilst a pizza was around 5, a portion of chips and ketchup was 3, a sandwich 3.5, a guy would also sell crepes from a little kiosk, there was also a little shop that sold sweets and gifts(though I found this to be friendly and convenient, it was well overpriced compared to shops outside the hotel)
There is also a massage room, a hair and beauty parlour beside the shop that did henna tattoos, walk through the gate to Marhaba Beach and theres an indoor pool with a gym and another pampering parlour.
A little further past the snack bar is a path to the beach, there is a beachside snack bar, this one is shadey and was quite cool in the sea breeze when the temp was below 40, some days it was unbearably hot to walk on the sand depending on the wind direction.
On the private beach there are loads of shades, again tip security the day before and they will reserve you one with loungers, there are activities like jet skiing, paragliding and riding the inflatable banana off the back of a speed boat, the prices are negotiable so don't accept the first price.
Other stuff in the hotel includes tennis, crazy golf and squash but to be honest we never usually got much further than the pool through the day, or the bar at night, such was the relaxed atmoshere, friendly staff and the good company of the other parents and guests.
Finally a short note about the Ruskies, the majority are very rude and ignorant, they will push in, they do not even acknowledge you of you keep a door open for them, even the kids rarely smile at you.
A couple of times I saw tensions get frayed, but don't let it put you off going, the staff will come down on the side of the British every time.
All in all a great place to stay, will return again next year if I can get as good a deal.
|
| |
Angie Bunce-Mason from Chafford Hundred, Essex travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland Direct
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel was very pleasant, all of the staff were lovely - if you took the time to talk to them and treat them as human beings. Unfortunately, many people treated the staff poorly - especially the Russians! Our table waiters taught us some phrases in Arabic, which my 4 year old son is still using!
The system for dining was very unsatisfactory, we had a 18.30 slot for evening meal and if you were late (as we were on a few occasions) the waiter checking you in each night got cross. Our breakfast slot was 7.30am - this meant we had to be up by 7am!! We were on holiday to escape getting up early - needless to say we didn't make breakfast often! A shop just outside of the hotel sold fruit juices etc so we would buy our own breakfast and eat by the pool.
The poolside Bazaar was great to. The guys working the shop were lovely and very informative about local sites etc. We were taken to Frugia animal park by 'Waleed' - the park was great and doing the trip ourselves meant that we could stay as long as we liked and go on a day that suited us.
Aziz, the guy taking photo's by the pool would often appear with photo's he had taken of us the day before, most of which we bought - yes it's a bit of a trap but you are on holiday! But very reasonable prices. There are photographers at every tour, on the boats, at the animal park etc..
Our experience of the Thompson reps was very poor. It was my son's 4th birthday whilst there, we informed them they told us they would arrange something and get back to us, the didn't. Thankfully, our waiting staff were more helpful and thankfully we had bought candles with us so the waiters sang 'Happy Birthday'. In my opinion the reps didn't want to help us throughout the holiday (we had several occasions when they could have helped us but couldn't be bothered) because we did our trips independently - saving money and mixing with the locals.
The food and drink was very reasonably priced even the hotel prices were good, a pizza for around £2, a bottle of wine for £5.
In all we had a great family holiday, you don't need holiday rep's as the boys in the bazaar and our waiting staff acted as out tour guides - the best way to escape the tourist trap.
Thanks Tour Khalef!!
|
| |
Barrie Norman from Skegness travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland Direct
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: My wife and I have just returned on the 14th May 2006 after spending another 14 nights at this hotel.
Our flight was from Doncaster which was excellent, we arrived at the hotel around 2300, there was no food available but the bars were open until 0100 so water etc was available.
Our room number 1111, was a double which we had paid extra for, good size, good bathroom with bath/shower etc, towels changed daily on request, bed linen changed twice weekly, maid service good and room kept clean. There was a television in the room but the majority of channels consisted of Russian programmes, the one and only English channel worked 2 days out of the 14, even after many complaints.
Our room was quiet but we heard numerious other guests complaining of alot of noise keeping them awake the majority of the night, mainly in the other wing which seemed to house the Russians plus some Thomson guests.
On arrival the reception gave you a blue card for half board guest and a red card for all inclusive guests plus a very uncomfortable wristband.
On your first visit the the restaurant you handed your card to the restaurant manager who allocated you a table for the rest of your stay.
The system they have adopted in the restaurent is not very workable as blue card eat prior to red cards and if you are a slow eater or late for your meal times or want an earlier meal this is when problems arise, which we experienced and often witnessed at nearly every meal time, regret four persons do not fit on a two person table!!!!! especially when the other two are Russian.
The food choice, presentation and quality was good on the buffet service, BUT you must ensure that you are not overwhelmed by the number of RUSSIANS in the hotel, during our stay the hotel was at full capacity and this meant in the region of 1300 guests and 96% of them were Russian, they are ignorant, abusive and rude people even towards there own, they push, shove and have no manners whatsoever.
At meal times they pile their plates high with every thing available and then leave the majority of it, whilst we were there strawberries were in season and alongside the strawberry dish was fruit dishes for them but no the Russians used large soup dishes and could still not get enough strawberries, it was really an eye opener, we hear about Germans but Russians are many times worse.
We have been to this hotel a number of times and have never ever experienced this type of conduct, the Russians have and will continue to spoil this hotel, they are hated by the majority of staff but in the end it is money that talks, the majority are all inclusive.
The all inclusive system is antiquated, as stated earlier you are tagged on arrival and each time you have anything from the all inclusive sections your wrist band bar code is swiped by a hand machine which then generates your details on the computer but very often this does not work so then it is down to signing for whatever you have.
The entertainment team has been replaced since our last visit and can only be described as very poor.
The hotel is situated with sun terraces, lawned areas leading to the excellent pool/childrens play area with local bazaar and fantastic beach beyond, pool and beach is serviced by bars which serve snacks and drinks including all inclusive.
The pool is excellent, good size with plenty of sun bathing areas, sun beds, mattresses and parasols available free of charge but they are very strick that no hotel room towels are used around the pool or on the beach.
The beach is patrolled by members of staff who keep beach traders at waters edge so you do not get any hassel.
You cannot bring or take out of the country any Tunisian Dinars, on arrival you change your sterling at the hotel and on departure you exchange your Dinars at the airport, it is an offence to import of export Dinars.
It is not necessary to tip the staff, just be polite and they will appreciate this alot more, Russians do not tip and they do not have any manners either.
Thomson reps okay, didnt have much to do with them,
did not go to the welcome party.
One guest summed up the holiday as a Russian 18 to 30 club holiday, whereby they had just been let out from the box and had no idea how to conduct themselves they were disgraceful.
We also understand that during the Winter months the hotel guests are mainly British, I just hope and pray this to be true.
And the weather........two full day and nights of heavy rain the other twelve days excellent sun.
|
| |
Laila from slough travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland direct
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The food was good.
The rooms were clean but our waiter was awful. You can order ice cream as part of the buffet service and our waiter would always moan- If we asked him for some he would mutter something under his breath and would take 10-15mins to deliver it- We complained to the hotel but did not actually receive a written apology or what the outcome was.
We are never going back there.
|
| |
Margaret from Manchester travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a singles holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 01 2006 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: My friend and I booked this holiday on 'the spur of the moment' deciding to get away in January after the madness of Christmas and the New Year. Neither of us had visited Tunisia before and subsequently heard both good and bad opinions of Tunisia. However, we have only good to report.
This hotel is a fantastic place to stay whatever your age or whether you're single, friends or family. Cleanliness was exceptional, our room was great, clean, the maid came in every day, spacious, we could have held a dance in the bathroom, and excellent views from the balcony.
The staff were professional yet friendly and could answer our many questions that we had and nothing was too much trouble for them and the same goes for the Thomson reps.
Food was buffet style self service which confused us at first (we are getting on) but once we got the hang of it, no problem and it was always fresh and hot when it should have been and salads etc cold and crisp and the desserts were to die for, breakfasts consisted of everything you could imagine from cereals to cooked breakfast, a real dieters nightmare!!!!
We would definitely visit this hotel again without hesitation.
|
| |
sylvia from exeter travelled to Tour Khalef with
thompsons
on a singles holiday.
There were 1 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 12 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The hotel was very pleasant, the rooms very spacious and clean. The staff I thought were excellent even though I forgot to tip half the time!
The poolside cafe served a good selection for lunch and i had a very enjoyable time, the only downside for me was the food in the restaurant, breakfast was fine but the evening I thought very bland and consequently even though I had paid for half board I went out each night.
|
| |
Linda Williams from tewkesbury.Gloucester travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 12 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Food was varied on a self selection basis. No complaints, not at all, spicy, which I thought it would be. Catered for all, I thought.
Taxis so cheap that the hotel location caused not problems, shops and restaurants all around. Beach just at the bottom of the hotel grounds.
Unfortunately I found that the hotel was not geared up for relaxing and chilling out if the weather was poor. Which is was when we went, it was very cold, I wore a jumper nearly every day.
I also found that the Waiter only service was geared up solely to tip, I felt under pressure the whole time to give tips, when correct money was given, and they expected the change to be left at other times, if you did not do this, you had a difficult job getting their attention for another service, of drinks or any things. The coffee was in extremely small cups so I was ordering quite a few which at the end of the day cost me a lot. Restaurant staff only assisted if you tipped.
Not that clean although you seen plenty of the cleaners around all the time mopping the marble floors with someone supervising them at all times??
|
| |
Sue & Rachel from Harrogate travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompsons
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 11 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: My daughter and I enjoyed every minute in the Tour Kalef, from arrival to departure nothing was to much trouble for anyone.
The room was fantastic clean bright and in great condition (tv ariel didnt work, but 1 call to reception it was replaced in minutes) Food was fantastic, great choice and hot, always replenished and kept clean and tidy.
We enjoyed it so much we are going back again in Jan 06.
Around and about there is thisgs to do if you ask the staff or reception, but dont bother asking the Thomson reps they only want you to go on there tours. We found a fantastic Tunisian steam room across the road approx £1.50 each per session. We had the full works plus massage for £25 (for us both!!)
Would recommend to anybody.
|
| |
Brimmo from Essex travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 11 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Arrived in Tunisia to a 2hr check in queue at Monastir airport..Then onto hotel more queueing at reception..(Not needed when you have kids with you) then finally got into hotel room nearly 1am..(Plane landed at 8pm) only to find no cot for the baby..Staff refused to help until the morning..
Be warned there's no cows milk for sale ANYWHERE..you can get it free from the restaurant but we weren't told until the last day we were there..
The hotel itself had an awful sewage smell wherever you were in the hotel..that smell was there..
Staff try to be friendly but I felt you must constantly tip to get this friendliness..!!
Be warned DO NOT go out at night with your children..I found it unsafe as did other families who were there at the same time as us..Drug pushers hang outside and often come into the hotel bar..!!!(What's the point of their security) Myself and another dad was nearly attacked outside hotel grounds for not buying drugs..they can get very abusive..I also believe a tourist was knifed just outside the hotel grounds..(which concerned many U.K tourists there..!!)
Doors were also being tried through the night..and one chaps wife kept getting phone calls to her room in the night..from someone at the desk she never knew..The men do nothing but pester your wife and children and I found myself getting really annoyed many times..(If you have a short fuse then steer clear of this hotel) People were also getting attacked on the beach one lady had her arm broken buy some Tunisian thug who tried to make off with her handbag..my 10yr old daughter was sworn at..
All in all my first experience of Tunisia will unfortunately be my last..And I have nothing good to say about this hotel..The only thing I miss is the weather..(by heck is it cold in good old blighty)
|
| |
Sandra from Sunderland travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 10 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: This was a cheap winter break and we were so pleased with the hotel, we've booked again for June 2006.
First two days were cold so we made use of the indoor pool at the next door hotel (a bit old looking but Ok) and had a look around. Of the 3 or 4 hotels you can access, the pool area and grounds of the Tour Khalef appeared to be the cleanest and newest.
As the outside pool is large, this time of year it was far too cold to use.
Went full board but have booked half board for next time as the poolside snack bar was so cheap and lovely. Breakfast was fine- cooked, continental, cereals, pancakes, pastries. Salads and cooked meals at lunchtime/dinner were tasty but a bit samey after 3 or 4 days, although I do agree that a kids choice is needed. Drinks are reasonable(bottle of lager/coke about 90p, bottle of wine £6). A £2 taxi ride to Port El Kantoui - find the supermarket to the right of the castle looking entrance to the marina; and buy the same lager and wine for 1/2 the price.
The only staff I had a problem with were reception - the money change guy was so sullen looking and they took ages to acknowledge you. Waiters do look after you with a little tip (even if you add 1 or 1/2 a dinar to every round of drinks or every meal brought to your table, its not much) but are otherwise pleasant.
There were no kidzone activities as off season but the hotel entertainers were the hardest working I've seen- our 5 year old loved the mini disco and crazy golf. We never stayed up for the entertainment after 9pm so can't comment on adults ents.
Down side - the daytime activities when weather was poor was geared towards older people(tea dances, cards, bingo, etc).
Also, the rooms are a bit small and if you book a room with a bunk bed, the only place for it is in front of the patio window. We had a third bed and a cot which made space limited(does say this in the brochure). next time we've booked two connecting rooms (paid about £100 extra).
Tunisia is not to everyone's liking - but this was our 3rd time. If you are looking for Blackpool entertainment and English pubs, stick with Majorca.
|
| |
Sawyer from Northumberland travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 08 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: After reading other reviews on this hotel I was a bit worried. I shouldn't have been. We thoroughly enjoyed this holiday & hotel.
The hotel although older is exceptionally clean.
The staff were very friendly-tip a couple of dinars (about £1) on your first night & about half that the rest of the time & you are guaranteed superb service.
Drinks & food at the pool & bars was very reasonably priced. Food in the restaurant was always hot, there was always plenty regardless of what time you went & good variety. (can't comment on breakfasts as we were never up in time!) Deserts were the best I've had anywhere. Pool area/toilets was the cleanest I've seen.
Beach just a stones throw away was also good.
Night time entertainment was pretty naff but Medhi the resident entertainment & Thomson Kids Reps put heart & soul into it - It was def no worse than you'd get in most mainland Spain hotels!
All in all we had a very good, very cheap holiday in a beautiful hotel & gardens. Would def go back
|
| |
Walker from West Lothian travelled to Tour Khalef with
portland
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 1 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 07 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: With over 500 rooms, this is a large hotel who have to cater for number of nationalities. The rooms were clean and spacious and they all had a sea view. The lift broke down a few times and being on the 3rd floor would have caused problems for families with small children/buggies. However, they were fixed quickly. We had booked an all-inclusive package and on hindsight would have been better half board as drinks etc are cheap even in the hotel. All inclusive guests have a seperate bar and have to que for drinks which could get a bit annoying. However regular tips to the bar staff soon sorted this problem out. Food in the hotel restaurant was buffet style and varied but there was no childrens section which could cause problems for fussy tots (chicken nuggets / pizza etc would be appreciated). You were allocated a table in the restaurant on arrival and this was yours for the duration of your stay.
The hotel is located a few minutes taxi ride from Sousse & Port El Kantou (approx £2.00 each way in a taxi)so therefore it is far enought to be away from the husstle and busstle but close enough if you want it. The gardens in the hotel are lovely and the pool very child friendly. The beach is private with fine white sand and is very clean.
Hotel staff are all friendly and more than happy to help.
Entertainment is limited - but they try their best - a bit of encouragement and audience participation makes it better! The Divi Club (Italians) are very animated and include everyone in their daily pool activities (if you want to that is). Special mention Must go the the Thompson Kid Zone reps who kept the children entertained most days (and sometimes twice daily). Children will not get involved with anything they are unhappy with and the children were flocking into the club with gret enthusiasim. Thanks the Kate,, Claire & Steve for giving them well structured and varied activities each day.
|
| |
jana from vilnius travelled to Tour Khalef with
oasis tours
on a 18-30s holiday.
There were 6 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The best thing there was animation team Diviclub. At frst they were rude but after some time I enjoyed talking to them.
Location is very beatiful. I like the green grass mostly.
Waiters are really nice but not always helpful.
|
| |
Janson from Newcastle Under Lyme travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 2 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 06 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: This hotel was set in lovely gardens, complex was very spacious so finding a quite spot away from it all was easy. Pool area was very clean, and getting a sunbed was no problem at all.
Plenty of daytime activities going on around the pool area, aqua aerobics, water polo, mini golf etc...Fantastic beach within a couple of minutes walking distance from the pool. Poolside bar and beach restaurant offered good food at unbelievably low prices. Hotel staff very friendly, good selection of food in the evening to suit all tastes.
Evening Entertainment was not great, but the animator gives 110% effort with the poor equipment and props that he was supplied with.
Smiley Mileys Camel trip was good value for money, well worth going. A trip to the Medina is a must, a little daunting at first but we bagged ourselves some great bargains and found the whole experience quite amusing.
Thomsons Kidzone was great and gave you a couple of hours free time almost every day.
Bad Points about your Holiday: The locals can be a pain pestering you, but after a few days we found a firm but polite no thanks did the trick. Always agree a fare with the local taxis before getting in the cab, even though the fares are very cheap they do try and rip you off.
The only complaint about the hotel was that soft drinks around the pool were served in glass bottles, which I found very dangerous.
Overall Holiday Opinion: We found Tunisa very cheap, we could'nt spend our money. Weather on the whole was good.
|
| |
Eva from Budapest/Hungary travelled to Tour Khalef with
Kartago
on a friends holiday.
There were 4 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Hello,
It was my first visit in Tunisia 3 weeks ago, and it was excellent I can recommend Sousee and this hotel to everyone! Due to the location of the building, every room looks out on the see.
Tour Khalef has a beautiful garden with a newly renovated pool with free sunbeths. You can also use the inside pool of the Marhaba hotel in the neighbour. Hotel has an own beach at the sea.
Rooms are spacious, modern, and really clean, cleaning lady came every day. We gave her some dinars and cheap parfume, and next day there was a bunch of flower in our room :-)
We rented a safe at the reception (1 dinar/day) but it might not have needed.
I spent my one week long holiday with my friend and with my and her mother, we had no trouble with the hotel or staff there. Food is absolutely ok, nothing was missing.
The only disadvantage (?) of the hotel is the distance from the centre, it takes about 45 minutes to the centre on foot, but it is safe at night as well (taxi takes you to the center for 2 dinars).
Hotel offers entertainment facilities every night (bingo ,folklor night, disco, kid disco) As far as I can see children are realy welcomed here, there is a playing field next to the pool, animators often offer programs.
In summary I was absolutely satisfied with the hotel (comparing with 4 stars hotels in Greece, Morocco I stayed this is the best)
|
| |
Lisa Rogers from Newbury travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a family holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just returned from a week stay at Tour Khalef and already looking to book another trip! The hotel was exceptionally clean and tidy, and our room was kept immaculate. The food was fine, and I am a very fussy eater. However, it did get a bit repetitive after a few days, with lots of food the same. The staff at the hotel were absolutely fantastic, and looked after us well. We were two women travelling together (me and my Mum) and they could not have been nicer. If you tip them they look after you even better - although they don't necessarily expect this.
The resort was great and there were plenty of sunbeds available, although you have to get to the beach pretty early if you want a lounger there! We did get quite a bit of hassle from men/boys, however, they are so polite with it that you can't be annoyed. You just have to be friendly but firm! I did not at any time feel threatened or unsafe and I would even stay at the hotel if I was travelling alone. The weather was fantastic, with not a cloud in the sky......got a lovely tan! I would definitely recommend this hotel and May/June is a great time to go!
|
| |
Carole from Liverpool travelled to Tour Khalef with
thompson
on a friends holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 05 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food |  | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: This was our first visit to Tunisia and we were a bit worried after reading some of the reports on the internet. We needn't have worried the hotel staff were all very friendly and we really enjoyed our stay. The main entrance was under refurbishment but this did not bother us and was nearly completed as we left.
I did not much like the way you had to sit with other people for meals (but got over it).
When we arrived as we had no local currency and needed food and a drink we tried to change some money outside the times advised. This did prove to be a small problem but after explaining that we did not have any money at all they allowed us to change a small amount of money.
|
| |
Bec from Devon travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a friends holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: The Hotel Tour Khalef was certainly good value for money.
The staff really were exceptionally kind and happy to help, yes a tip will help but we only tipped once (students on tight budget) but it is by no means essential for good service, and the Tour Khalef is after all a buffet service.
The cleaning staff were very pleasent and made pretty patterns of our covers, although I would not say the standard of cleanliness of the bathroom and floor were very good. I am not 100% sure our sheets were changed.
We went on several trips with Thomson, as two young girls travelling on our own felt safest doing this, and thoroughly enjoyed trips available from this hotel, especially to the zoo!
As for entertainment we were very tired most of the time from long trips so we did not spend much time participating in evening entertainment, the brief glances we had seemed ok if you liked line dancing etc but not for us. However as we didn't really stay to see what went on I can't comment more.
One thing you really must do is go to the Spa at the Hotel next door, I can't remember the name but it is the hotel to the left if you are facing the sea, you get there by going out of the front gates and turning right then taking the next road that is signposted for a hotel. The massage we had there was 100% professional and very cheap and relaxing. They are happy to show you around before hand as there are many different treatements there.
All in all I think that what we paid for a weeks full board was excellent value, but I would not pay more than £350pp to stay here, and would return with family or male company to Tunisia!
|
| |
Brendat from Somerset travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: My husband and I have just returned from the Tour Khalef 20th-27th.
The weather on the first day was cloudy and then rain but after that every day got better. We enjoyed our stay.rooms very clean as well as the rest of the hotel.
My husband managed to find something to eat every day but I am afraid I didn't like it at all. Breakfast was the best meal of the day. Entertainment was awful.!
We had a nice Sahara trip with the Thomson Rep well worth the money, dispite the fact our coach broke down in the middle of the desert. Thomson should get them serviced better.
Met a lovely couple at our dinner table as well as other people. Everybody was so friendly.
In all it was a good holiday but feel we would not go again.
|
| |
Adrian Gogerly from london travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We found the Tour Khalef Hotel an excellent hotel to stay at. We found nothing to complain about this hotel. Even when we arrived there was some refurbishment being done to the reception area this did not cause any trouble for us.
We found everyone from the management down to the cleaners very helpful.
The food was a variety with either hot or cold meals.
If you are willing to take part in any of the daytime entertainment is up to you but you will find the entertainment team a great bunch, they do make your holiday go with bang.
As this was our first time to Tunisia we will be going back to the Tour Khalef Hotel.
|
| |
Jodie Wilson from Peterborough travelled to Tour Khalef with
thompson
on a friends holiday.
There were 2 adults and 5 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: I went on holiday on the 13th April till the 27th April and I had the best 2 weeks of my life.
The staff were lovely and the entertainment was good.
The food is excellent (you have an all you can eat selection).
The pool is very big and very nice and the beach is lovely.
The staff make you smile and give you the chance to join in various activities.
I am definitely 100% going back there, hopefully in September.
|
| |
Barrie Norman from Skegness travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: My wife and I stayed at the Hotel Tour Khalef from the 13th to 20th April 2005 on full board basis. This is a return visit as we stayed here in January of this year.
The bedrooms are of an excellent size, book a double bed with a sea view and you will not be disappointed, it is only a few pence more. We do like the excellent location of the hotel, you walk from the hotel through the grounds to the reburbished swimming pool together with its immense paved areas is fantastic, then a few yards further on you come to the excellent sandy beach.
The meals are good but can be indifferent at times, there is plenty of choice. The hotel cleanliness is first class and very hard to fault, the staff are very helpful and are even more helpful if you tip them. The location of the hotel means the majority of your entertainment is hotel based which we found to be very very poor, they have a couple of young lads, who are the entertainment team and try very hard but really this area needs to be looked at by the hotels management and improved. The weather was fantastic during our holiday, clear blue skies and temperatures in the 80's, would easily have stayed another week or two. Thomson are reducing the board for this hotel from full board to half board, not just for the summer but also for the winter programme, which is a disappointment as we find that the attraction of full board, especially during the winter months is excellent. Our only complaint is the number of cats which roam EVERYWHERE, leaving their smells, this problem is compounded by guests who will insist on taking food from the dining room and feeding these pests.
|
| |
si and marie from buxton travelled to Tour Khalef with
thompson
on a family holiday.
There were more than 6 adults and 3 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Arrived Sunday and had diabolical bag/transfer wait at airport.
Check-in OK.
Had 3 days of rain and high winds, not what we were expecting, but when weather changed it was beautiful.
Food was fantastic, great choice, quality and quantity. Waiters great, especially upstairs in the lounge where nothing was too much trouble.
Entertainment was basic but very good, very funny and the entertainments team were brilliant at everything from dancing and bingo, to football!
Room was very nice though no drink facilities, the only gripe.
Not very happy with Thompson Reps who only seemed interested if you were buying their tickets. We used "Smiley Miley" who was great value throughout the week, and a good source of information too.
|
| |
Miss Williams and Miss Paterson from Aberdeen travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a friends holiday.
There were 3 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: I stayed at the Tour Khalef in early April of 2005. The weather was not as expected, we only had one or two dry days. However, there’s nothing you can do about the weather!
The hotel was undergoing renovation however it was well disguised and not very noisy and didn’t really bother us at all! The reception was due to be finished just a few days after we departed.
The hotel staff were very friendly and did a great job. As soon as your glass was empty they would help you out by offering another one etc.
The food was ok in quality although a little bit random with the choices on offer, as you couldn’t really make a meal out of it...but you could pile up your plate with random bits an pieces.
The hotel rooms were fabulous and well maintained. The facilities in the room were above adequate and the maids were very friendly and helpful!
The swimming pool area was recently refurbished and was extremely pleasurable to dip into. And whilst at the poolside the waiters were great at keeping the beers coming our way.
The Thomson reps were also great. The children in the kids club always were enthusiastic and looked like they were having great fun. The kid’s reps Allan, Teresa and Kate put all of their effort an enthusiasm into their mini discos which I enjoyed also! Liz was also a great help and always a warming smile to receive!
The only one excursion we went on was to the Thomson Team's Cabaret 'Showstoppers' was fantastic. What a voice some of those reps have. We seen all of our Thomson team from our hotel and they were rocking Sousse! Definitely the best reps show and night out I've ever had!
Now moving on to the local area - All the locals were really friendly - sometimes a little too friendly. Taxi service took a bit of getting used to as they tended just to stop right beside you even when you didn't need a taxi. There was also a random thing called a tuk tuk which was pink and purple...didn’t seem very safe but was great great fun! Go On Man!
Whilst in Sousse we also visited the Medina which was scary at first but a good laugh! Once you got used to their "ooh sweet ladies..." and "cheeky beggar...come into ma shop" and "everything lovely jubbly...Asda price" it was a funny experience.
Overall a great holiday - would DEFINITELY recommend and already booked for next year man!
Go there Man!
|
| |
Sharon and Ken from Dudley travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 04 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: What a great holiday! We were a bit apprehensive after reading other reviews about this hotel but we need not have worried. On arrival, even though we were delayed at the airport, the hotel staff were good enough to provide us with dinner (even though they usually stop serving at 8.30 and it was well after 9pm when we arrived). The food was good and the selection excellent. I sampled rabbit for the first time (although there was plenty of other options for the less adventurous)! There was also swordfish, which is usually very expensive if you buy it in a restaurant. The couscous was also excellent and fig jam for breakfast on fresh baguettes was lovely. If you are looking for a good english breakfast, you're better off in Blackpool, but you wouldn't really expect (or want) to find one here - it is North Africa after all!
The rooms were cleaned well everyday and the cleaners were friendly. The hotel staff will do anything you ask (for 1 dinar!!). Our aerial didn't work on the TV and it was repaired immediately. In another review it was mentioned that brown water ran from the taps. We found that this only happened in late morning which was probably because that was when the majority of the hotel residents had had their baths/showers and the water was running low. First thing in the morning or later in the afternoon the water ran perfectly clear.
The pool was newly refurbished and clean, however we didn't get much chance to use it as it rained at the beginning and the end of the week. On the sunny days we were in the Sahara but can't complain!
|
| |
Joel & Sam from Essex travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We stayed at the Tour Khalef in March 2004 and were very pleased with the hotel and upon booking again for March 2005 I visited this website and was very surprised by the negative reviews.
Upon our return to the hotel in March we have nothing but praise for it.
The staff are extremely friendly and helpful.
The cleanliness was faultless and the food was superb offering a wide choice at each mealtime. One thing that holidays makers must remember is that in another country they should sample the local food and not always expect traditional English food - be daring!
The rooms were cleaned to a high standard and were very spacious with superb views over the sea.
Part of the lounge area and the pool were being renovated during our stay but this did not effect our holiday at all, particularly since the pool of the Hotel Marhaba Beach next door is also for the use of guests at the Tour Khalef and is a great place for getting a tan!
If I was to fault anything with the hotel, and it would be picking at straws, I would just say that the entertainment is not particularly exciting but then use this as an excuse to go out at night as the hotel is very centrally located to entertainment areas such as Port El Kantoui and very cheap in a taxi ride.
Overall then, I would highly recommend a stay at this hotel and could not fault it if I tried, especially at the price one pays to got in March with Thomson.
|
| |
Mr & Mrs Whyles from Grantham travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We stayed in the Tour Khalef when we visited Tunisia with Thomsons, we found the hotel staff very friendly.
The hotel cleanliness was acceptable with the maid cleaning our room every day she also did a different pattern of folding of our bed sheet each day which was nice.
We noticed on our arrival that the sink plug system was broken but was repaired the following day without us even mentioning it, although the bathroom was in need of renovation but was very usable and adequate.
The hotel food was very well presented although I thought that there could have been a wider selection, the quality of food was very good I personally recommend the chips. The waiters are polite both in the bars and restaurant especially if you tip often as we did.
The hotel grounds are ideal for a relaxing time sunbathing and the waiters there too are polite and quick to serve, as are the ground staff who promptly you with cushions for the loungers, you will note that there are several cats in the grounds which is good if you like cats, but if not don't worry as they will not bother you.
There are traders who are allowed to tout for business by the hotel be careful if you use them we used two, one for a boat trip which was ok, but we also took a so called trip to the sunday market with one who was only interested in taking us to his shops in the medina. If you are hassled by any traders be firm but polite they will take no for an answer eventually, but on the whole they are not rude despite reports to the contrary always say "no thankyou" it does seem to work.
We did a trip to the Sunday market which is a good experience on the whole with plenty of haggling and bargains. Be very very careful of pickpockets as they are very brass necked and will plunge straight for your purse or wallet, a couple of guests at our hotel were robbed in this fashion although we did not witness any activity of that sort personally.
If you go with Thomsons you must take up the showstoppers excursion it is amateurish but very entertaining, also I would recommend the Zulu evening this is fabulous.
|
| |
Mr & Mrs Whyles from Grantham travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thompson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 03 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: Just to add to our previous report, the pool is now completed, the entertainment area floor is now finished and was open for entertainment on our last night.
Go to this hotel with an open mind we did just that and thourougly enjoyed it, the hotel in our oppinion merits its 4 stars.
The only let down was there seems to be an influx of locals at local holiday times and they seem to disregard what their children do, one of them picked up the black ball from the pool table while I was playing pool with another guest and promptly put it in one of the pockets.
I complained to the parent who didn't seem to know what the fuss was about.They also push and shove at the food counter and seem to have total disregard for other guests.
Generally I would not hesitate to go back to Tunisia or the Tour Khalef
|
| |
Paul and Ann marie from Newcastle upon tyne travelled to Tour Khalef with
Thomson
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 02 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We were a bit anxious about staying at this hotel due to the polarised reviews on this site; over all we weren’t impressed,
Problems started with being given a twin basement room facing a wall when I had paid a extra supplement for a double with a sea view, After complaining to Thomson they moved us eventually to a sea view room but again with twin beds, Thomson stated that the hotel only had 10 double rooms and did nothing to give us the room we had paid for ( the cleaner had to push our two beds together and fill the gap with a blanket... not really the standard you'd expect from a four star hotel) Although that being said if id wanted a twin room the room itself was not too bad and had quite modern decor compared to the rest of the hotel, However the shower was very under powered but perfectly useable.
Also during our stay major building work had started including the removal of the floor and windows of the entertainment area including very noisy building work which made sitting on the balcony and around the pool not as relaxing as we had hoped, also they decided during our stay to resurface much of the hotels entrance road which was very noisy, Also the work around the hotel pool is still on going ( Thomson claimed that the work had just started but I am sure you can see from the other reviews here that it has been going on for a while ) of the two other out door pools one only had one foot of water in it and the other was fine, The indoor pool has a delightful layer of algae / moss on the roof and also smelt dreadful,
The hotel is also pretty dirty/ dusty on the whole although this is probably due to the building work,
The food in the hotel is pretty good for what you pay for, It is always pretty similar but there were a few interesting things and on the whole it was good (also as another review said the chips are very very good) A good idea is to give the waiter a reasonable tip on your first night and on eon the last night, We were all inclusive this means you don’t get your drinks brought to the table however the tips seemed to rectify this....
One problem at the moment due to the building work is that the entertainment is in the lobby meaning it’s really loud and Smokey, I wasn’t a fan but if you have kids i am sure they'd enjoy it,
Also if you go on a trip watch out for people and children giving you things when you get off the coach as they expect a nice dinar reward for it, A good tip is to keep your hands in your pocket and just give a polite no, this should be enough,
Anyway on the whole the tour kalef was a disappointment for us, however the hotel does have potential and one the refurbishment is done and the hotel is cleaned properly it will be ok, but if your going there in the near future id ring your tour operator and question them about the building work, as ours seemed to be taken by surprise when it started .. thanks
|
| |
Mary and Dave from Bristol travelled to Tour Khalef with
Portland
on a couples holiday.
There were 2 adults and 0 child(ren) in the party. The travel date was 02 2005 |
rated the Tour Khalef as follows:| Cleanliness | | | Location | | | Staff | | | Food | | |
| Entertainment | |
| said: We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves at this hotel.
The lobby and lounge area of the hotel is rather grand and very big. It really is a meeting place and we met some lovely people. As smokers we were pleased we were able to smoke though any nonsmokers may not like it. The lounge is really big though so I can't see it being too much of a problem.
The bedroom was great, pretty basic but aren't all hotels? When we go back we will try and get a sunny balcony as we missed out this time but the weather wasn't f |
Sunny Says there
are 91 visitors online