This is my honest review of Swandor Topkapi Palace. The hotel has good facilities, including a beach, pools, a football pitch and activities, but our experience was far below five-star standards.
During the first three nights, I developed many unusual, extremely itchy bites and could barely sleep. I also found an insect on me in bed, which made us concerned about possible bed bugs. Staff initially dismissed the issue and suggested simply cleaning the room while we continued staying there. We were later moved, but were told the original room would only be cleaned and rented to other guests. Only after I insisted did they agree to inspect it. Management showed little concern and offered no solution.
Service was disappointing. At check-in, we were given room cards with no explanation of the hotel, restaurants or activities. Staff were generally average, not especially welcoming or professional. On our final day, we saw employees complimenting guests and then asking for reviews, so I would take some reviews with a grain of salt.
The rooms were outdated, relatively small and below the standard expected from a five-star hotel. Food selection was large, but quality was poor and repetitive. Most desserts tasted the same, overly sweet and full of syrup. Even requesting an iron was handled poorly: it arrived without an ironing board, and the employee left immediately.
Good facilities, but poor rooms, food, service and handling of a serious complaint. I cannot recommend this hotel.
