Benidorm is the kind of place you either love or hate - or so I'm told. Personally, I rather like it. Although I wouldn't want to live there, I do enjoy visiting Benidorm every now and again, but a day never seems long enough to do everything we want to do. A couple of years ago, after an enjoyable lunch with friends, we hit on the idea of doing a short all inclusive break to give us time to sample Benidorm in all its glory. It's funny how a long, leisurely Spanish lunch and a few glasses of cava can crank up the thought process, isn't it?
Just before Christmas 2011, we booked a 4 night break at the Hotel Regente, in the centre of Benidorm, located midway between Levante Beach and the Market. With buses running into the Old Town in one direction, and Altea and Albir in the other, it's an ideal base for exploring Benidorm and the surrounding area.
We had a great time, and intended to return again, but life and stuff got in the way, and we never managed it. The end of January 2013 saw my husband Tony's 79th birthday. Not a landmark birthday, but as Tony says, at 79, every one's a bonus, so we decided to revisit the Regente with four friends and celebrate in style. We booked all inclusive, so we could really relax and enjoy ourselves.
For just 54 Euro per couple per night, we had three buffet meals, unlimited local wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks, as well as snacks in between times. There was also a full programme of entertainment every night. All we had to do was turn up at meal times, then find our way into the bar after dinner, and stagger to the lift some time around midnight. It's a tough job, but somebody has to do it!
It's quite easy to spend 54 Euro, or even more, on just one meal out with drinks, so our all inclusive break was fantastic value. Okay, we went out of season, but even in July and August, you can do all inclusive at the Regente for around 100 Euro per couple per night. There are literally hundreds of hotels to choose from in Benidorm, and others may prefer something closer to the action, but we liked the fact that we were convenient for all the amenities, but away from the main club area. I'd certainly recommend an all inclusive break in Benidorm for a special celebration, or just a break from routine. It's our neighbour's cat's birthday in May - maybe we'll go to Benidorm for another celebration!
