Escape to Paradise: Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort Awaits!
ESCAPE TO PARADISE: Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort Awaits! (Or Does It?) - A Brutally Honest Review
Okay, folks, buckle up. This isn't your typical, polished travel brochure. This is the unfiltered, messy, and frankly, slightly chaotic review of Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort in Sharm El Sheikh. I'm here to dissect every single, glorious, and possibly slightly questionable detail. Let's dive in!
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Good, The Questionable, and the Flat-Out Confusing
Getting to Laguna Vista? Smooth sailing (hopefully, unlike my booking experience – more on that later). Airport transfer was a godsend, honestly. After the flight from hell, that AC-blasted van felt like a hug.
Accessibility, though… that's where things get a little… complicated. They say they have facilities for disabled guests, and there's an elevator, which is promising. But I have a friend who’s gone there, and their experiences with true accessibility were mixed. Some areas are great, others feel like they tried and just… didn’t quite get it. Wheelchair accessible spaces are advertised. But do they really mean accessible? Get specifics before you book if accessibility is paramount. The hotel claims to be family/child friendly, that's for sure. It was a bustling, slightly chaotic environment (in a good way, I guess).
Internet, Glorious Internet (Or, The Constant Struggle)
Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yesss! Free Wi-Fi! Ugh… Well, it exists. And, technically, it's free when it works which is not always. Internet [LAN] is also available, but who wants to plug in these days? Wi-Fi in public areas, thankfully, was usually a little stronger. But expect some buffering when you're trying to really relax (or, you know, actually work).
The Room: A Mixed Bag of Blessings and Annoyances
My room? Ah, the room. Air conditioning? Essential. Blackout curtains? Lifesaver after those long days. Bathrobes? Luxuriously fluffy. Free bottled water? Always appreciated. Coffee/tea maker? Necessary for survival. In-room safe box? A must-have. Wi-Fi [free]? See above.
The bad? The soundproofing left something to be desired. I could hear the kids running around at 6 am. And, while they have interconnecting room(s) available, pray you don’t get one unless you love your neighbors.
The Daily Grind: Cleanliness, Safety, and … Disinfectant?
Cleanliness and safety are taken seriously, which is HUGE. There's daily disinfection in common areas, and the staff is trained in safety protocol. They use anti-viral cleaning products, and there's hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. You can even opt-out of room sanitization, which is a nice touch of personal control. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. First aid kit readily available? Check. Doctor/nurse on call? Check. You’ll feel relatively safe.
However, I did hear one guest joke that “they're cleaning EVERYTHING, but maybe forgetting about the details."
Food, Glorious Food (and the Occasional Hiccup)
Alright, let's talk about the lifeblood of any holiday: the food. The restaurants are plentiful! A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and Western cuisine in restaurant were all on offer.
Breakfast [buffet]? Absolutely huge, but you're sharing breakfast with 100+ other people. The breakfast takeaway service is also a great option if you have an early start. Coffee/tea in restaurant? Yes, thank goodness. Happy hour? Another saving grace. Poolside bar? Perfect positioning. Snack bar? Essential for midday munchies.
Now, about the food itself… It's a mixed bag. Some days, you're in culinary heaven. Other days… well, let's just say I had some experiences that tested the definition of "vegetarian." Vegetarian restaurant is available. Salad in restaurant? Yes. But cross-contamination is possible.
Ways to Relax: Spa, Pools, and the Pursuit of Bliss
This is where Laguna Vista shines! The swimming pool [outdoor] is huge, with a stunning pool with view. They feature a fitness center, gym/fitness to burn those buffets, a Spa/sauna (which I skipped), with a massage option. Sauna, steamroom and body scrub and body wrap? If that's your jam, then this is for you.
Things to Do: Beyond the Buffet
Besides the beach and the multiple pools, there's a lot going on. Babysitting service is perfect for families. There is also meeting/banquet facilities, meetings, and Seminars if you really need to combine work with pleasure.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (Mostly)
They've got most of it. Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Dry cleaning, Laundry service, Cash withdrawal… all good. Food delivery? Sometimes. Gift/souvenir shop? Prepare to spend some cash. Currency exchange? A must in this specific location.
The Quirks and the Imperfections - Because Real Life Isn't Perfect
Okay, time for some honesty bombs.
- The Staff: Generally, they're lovely. But the level of English proficiency varies wildly. Be patient, and learn a few Arabic phrases.
- The Crowds: It's a popular resort. Expect crowds, noise, and the occasional jostling for a sun lounger. Embrace the organized chaos.
- The Value: Overall? Pretty good value for money. But keep an eye on those extra charges! And always negotiate during the check-in. It’s part of the culture.
- The Atmosphere: This place is vibrant. It’s not a quiet, romantic getaway. Think more… lively family fun.
The Bottom Line: Should You Book?
Look, Escape to Paradise: Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort Awaits! but you have to set your expectations realistically. It's not perfect. It's not flawless. But if you're looking for a fun, affordable, and well-equipped resort in a stunning location, then it's definitely worth considering.
But Here's the Real Deal: My Persuasive Offer (Because I'm Suddenly Selling the Experience)
Tired of the same old, same old? Craving sun, sand, and a serious dose of Vitamin D? Then ditch the humdrum and embrace the madness!
Book your stay at Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort NOW, and get:
- A FREE upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability -- cross your fingers!).
- A complimentary massage at the spa (because you deserve it!).
- A discount on a thrilling desert safari adventure – because you need to see the pyramids!
- A FREE bottle of wine to enjoy on your balcony (you'll need it after a day at the pool!).
- Peace of mind: you can book the hotel and get a refund if you cannot continue your trip
But here's the catch: This offer is only valid for bookings made in the next 7 days and only for select dates! Don't miss out on your chance to escape the ordinary and experience the slightly chaotic, undeniably fun paradise of Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort. Click here now and book you escape to paradise!
Unbelievable Philly Stay! Cambria Hotel Downtown Center City Review
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Because I'm about to unleash the mess that is my dream (and probably your mild apprehension) of a trip to Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Let's be clear: I'm not a travel agent, I'm a disaster artist who happens to enjoy a good itinerary (until I inevitably lose it). So, here we go…
Day 1: Arrival and the "Oh My God, The Pool is Blue!" Moment
- 7:00 AM: Alarm screams. Loudly. This is the first sign this trip will be less "zen retreat" and more "organized chaos." Stumble out of bed, probably stub my toe (that's my travel tradition), and start the packing frenzy. Did I remember sunscreen? Probably not.
- 9:00 AM: Shove the last, possibly unnecessary, item (a sequined cat-ear headband - don't judge) into my suitcase. "Right, airport. This is happening." Deep breath.
- 12:00 PM: Touchdown in Sharm El Sheikh! The heat hits you like a brick wall. The air shimmers. The airport is… an experience. Let's just say navigating customs felt like a thrilling game of "find the passport" (spoiler: I found it).
- 1:30 PM: Transfer to the resort. The driver, bless his heart, probably thought he'd picked up a lost cause. Me and my luggage, that is. The drive showcases the vast desert landscape. I was utterly mesmerized by the scenery that made me feel a bit… alone. In a good way, for once, I think.
- 2:30 PM: Check-in. "Welcome!" they said with a smile. "Your room will be ready in…" mumbles something, I can't hear, "Go, get a drink and feel the vibes". I felt like I'd won the lottery.
- 3:00 PM: The Room. Okay, it's nice. Comfy bed. Balcony. But the pool. Oh. My. Gods. It's turquoise. Seriously, a shade of blue that should not exist in nature. I might actually cry. Maybe I will whip out those cat ears.
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Pool time! I'm not a great swimmer, but I'm determined to at least look graceful while flailing around. Ordered so many drinks. The waiter became my best friend. I think I'll stay there for the entirety of the trip. I want to live there.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the main buffet. A sea of options. I'm a bit overwhelmed. I may or may not have piled my plate precariously high, resulting in a minor gravy-related incident. The struggle is real.
- 8:30 PM: Post-dinner stroll around the resort. The place is lit up like something out of a dream. The air is warm. I might actually pass out from happiness.
- 9:30 PM: Crash, hard, in bed. Tomorrow: Adventure (and potentially more gravy mishaps).
Day 2: Snorkeling & the Great Sand Disaster
- 8:00 AM: Wake up with a start, filled with optimistic energy. Breakfast! This is what I'm here for, honestly. Scramble for the buffet. I load myself up!
- 9:30 AM: Snorkeling excursion! The sea is clear, the fish are colorful, and I am… terrified. Let's be fair, my coordination underwater is questionable. I spent most of the time sputtering and panicking while trying to keep the snorkel in my mouth. It was like being in a fishbowl of panic.
- 11:00 AM: Back on the beach. Sand. Everywhere. In my swimsuit, in my hair, in places I didn't even know sand could reach. I swear, I’m still finding it weeks later. The sun is strong. I’m sunburnt already, even though I applied sunscreen.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch by the sea. More buffet, more options. I discover the joy of falafel, which I proceed to devour in record time. The waiter remembers my drink order. I feel like a local.
- 2:00 PM: Pool time again! This time, armed with a book and a strong resolve to actually read it. I do not. Instead, I people-watch, mostly, and occasionally dip a toe in the water.
- 4:00 PM: A sudden desire for ice cream. Immediately make that desire a reality. One sundae, two scoops, and the world feels right again.
- 6:00 PM: Attempt to watch the sunset. It’s beautiful, but the mosquitos are relentless. I decide to retreat indoors before I'm eaten alive.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at one of the resort's specialty restaurants (Italian, maybe?). It’s fancy. I maybe act a little less classy than I should. The food is delicious, but I'm already missing those gravy-covered plates from last night.
- 9:00 PM: Bedtime. Drowning out the mosquitos with a book and a dream of more pool days to come.
Day 3: The Desert Dilemma and the Quest for the Perfect Souvenir
- 9:00 AM: Sleep in! Hallelujah! I needed that. Breakfast again. Load up on the bacon this time. It's a scientific necessity.
- 10:30 AM: Consider a desert excursion. Quad biking! Camel riding! Stargazing! My enthusiasm wanes quickly when I realize how much effort is involved.
- 11:00 AM: Decide to stay put. The pool is calling. Resistance is futile.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. Yes, again. I'm starting to think there may be a pattern. I'm starting to become suspicious of myself.
- 2:00 PM: Souvenir shopping. The quest for the perfect, utterly unique, "I was here and I loved it" trinket begins. I spend an hour haggling over a miniature pyramid (which I probably will break).
- 3:00 PM: Discover a hidden gem: a tiny spa tucked away near the beach. Sign up for a massage, because why not? This is the life.
- 4:00 PM: Massage time! It was amazing. I think I fell asleep. I hope I didn’t snore.
- 6:00 PM: Head back to the hotel to relax.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the resort's buffet again, because, again, convenience. I go for the gravy again.
- 8:30 PM: A final, wistful walk around the resort. One last look at the pool that stole my heart.
- 9:30 PM: Pack, mostly. Because, sadly, the trip is coming to an end. I'm already dreading the airport.
Day 4: Departure and the Aftermath
- 7:00 AM: Wake up. The dreaded packing-up ritual. I managed to get all the souvenirs, all the sun-burnt and sandy clothes, that cat-ear band, and still, somehow, I didn’t forget the passport.
- 9:00 AM: Check-out. One last hug for the hotel staff.
- 9:30 AM: Transfer to the airport. Again, I'm fascinated by the desert landscapes.
- 12:00 PM: Airport chaos.
- 2:00 PM: Say goodbye to Egypt, probably for the best.
Post-Trip Musings (AKA The Rambling, Unedited Thoughts)
Okay, so the itinerary wasn't perfect. I didn't stick to it to the letter. I spent more time in the pool than I planned. I ate way too much food. I probably came home with a light sunburn. But you know what? It was perfect. It was messy. It was human. And I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'll definitely go back. Probably. Maybe. Don’t tell anyone, but I think I still have some sand in my suitcase. And a longing for that turquoise pool. Until next time, Sharm!
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Escape to Paradise: Pickalbatros Laguna Vista Resort Awaits! (and frankly, so does your sanity...)
So, is this "Laguna Vista" actually paradise? Because, you know, marketing lies.
Alright, honest to goodness, "paradise" is a strong word, right? I mean, I’ve seen paradise – okay, mostly in travel brochures – and let me tell you, Laguna Vista… it gets *close*. It's like, your holiday brochure dreams, but with a few rogue pigeons and a waiter who *might* have forgotten your iced coffee. Again.
The lagoon itself is stunning! Seriously, the water is that turquoise you see in the pictures. I spent a solid hour just staring at it, letting all the crazy-town stuff of life just… melt away. Okay, maybe not *melt* away, more like simmer gently in the background while I stared at pretty water. And sunrise? Forget about it. Magical. My partner, bless her heart, was still snoring, but I was already out there, feeling like a proper explorer. (Me. An explorer. I usually explore the fridge.)
But, and there’s always a “but,” isn’t there? The WiFi? A bit dodgy. Think dial-up meets the Sahara Desert. Made me actually talk to people. Which, I’ll admit, was nice.. after the initial panic. And the food... oh, the food. More on that later. Let’s just say, not everything is "paradise" all the time. Consider it 'paradise-adjacent' - 8/10, would recommend, with caveats.
What were the rooms like? Did you get a sea view? (Please tell me you got a sea view!)
The rooms? Okay. Clean, spacious-ish, and air-conditioned, which is a *massive* win when you're trying to survive the Egyptian heat. We got… a partial sea view. Which is hotel code for “you can glimpse the ocean if you lean precariously off the balcony and squint.”
Our bathroom was a saga. I’m not gonna lie, the shower pressure was…weak. Like, "gently misting" weak. My partner, who has a hair situation that requires serious water power, nearly had a breakdown on the first day. Picture her, dramatically holding up her shampoo, pleading with the faucet. It got better, but it took, like, three hours of fiddling with the thermostat before we figured it out. Lesson learned: patience is a virtue, especially when dealing with hotel showers. And maybe pack a power shower attachment. Just in case.
The bed, on the other hand? Heavenly. Seriously, I slept like a log. Maybe because I was exhausted from shower-related drama. Who knows?
Let's talk food. Was it all-inclusive heaven, or all-inclusive hell?
Oh, the food. This is where things get…interesting! All-inclusive can be a rollercoaster, right? At Laguna Vista, it was more of a gentle kiddie coaster. There were ups, downs, and moments of sheer bewilderment.
The buffet situation was… prolific. Think mountains of food. Seriously, mountains. Pasta, grilled meats, salads that looked suspiciously uniform (I developed a deep suspicion of the salad. Didn’t trust it. My partner kept saying *'it's fine'* but I was unconvinced). Some of the food was AMAZING – those grilled kebabs were a revelation! Others... well, let's just say I’m still trying to decipher what some of those mystery meat dishes were. I suspect, based purely on the texture, that one was possibly a distant relation to a shoe.
The a la carte restaurants were a game changer. The Italian place? Delicious! Real, actual pasta. The seafood one was also pretty epic, and the wait staff are incredibly attentive. And the drinks service was generally on point, apart from the aforementioned disappearing iced coffee. So, yeah, some amazing food and some... less amazing. Overall - a solid B.
What about the staff? Were they friendly? (Because let's be honest, that can MAKE or BREAK a holiday.)
The staff? Honestly, they were the real MVPs. Most of them were absolutely lovely. Smiling, helpful, and genuinely trying to make your stay enjoyable.
There were a few minor hiccups, of course. There was the slightly overzealous towel man who seemed to interpret my "no, thank you" as a personal challenge to sneakily replace my towel *every five minutes*. And the waiter who, as I said, *really* struggled with iced coffee. (Seriously, still a mystery as to where the drink went.) But honestly, those were small potatoes.
Some of the waiters genuinely went above and beyond. One guy, Mohamed, kept our water glasses constantly full, even after he saw me spill half a bottle trying to look cool. He never judged. Just kept smiling. Seriously, give that man a raise. They work long hours, in a hot climate, and still manage to be cheerful. Incredible what a smile can do, right?
Tell me about the activities. Was there anything to actually *do*?
Activities? Oh yes, there were activities! If you're into… chilling. And relaxing. And occasionally getting slightly sunburnt. (I'm not mentioning any names…) There was a pool, of course, several pools (my partner spent the entire trip moving from sunbed to sunbed, chasing the shade). The beach was right there, right on my doorstep (well, a short walk from the lobby). They had a dive center - the lagoon is perfect for beginners. Snorkeling? Yeah, the reef is pretty amazing. I saw more fish than I have in my entire life. It was like being in a giant aquarium!
The animation team was great. They were energetic, enthusiastic, and persistent. I'm not a "games" person. I'm more of a "sit on a sun lounger and read a book" type of person. But even I had to admit that the water aerobics looked…fun. Until I actually tried it. Turns out, I am not graceful. Or coordinated. Or particularly good at following instructions. But it was a laugh! (Mostly at my expense, of course.) They had a little kids club which my partner's niece was quite enjoying! (I could take a nap while she was away at the club and it was wonderful)
And then there were the evening shows. Which were... interesting. They were definitely enthusiastic. Think energetic dancing, questionable lip-syncing, and costumes that maybe, just maybe, were from a previous century. But hey, they tried. And the drinks were flowing, so who was complaining? (Okay, maybe the guy next to me. He was very vocal about the lip-syncing…)
Any downsides? Be honest!
Okay, here's the real deal. Nothing is perfect, not even paradise-adjacent Laguna Vista.
The WiFi, as I mentioned, was patchy. Pack a book, or download a bunch of movies. Be prepared for some digital detox time – which, actually, wasn’t a bad thing at all. It forced me to put my phone away, which was a win-win.Top Places To Stay
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