Benidorm Bliss: Your Dream Villa Awaits at Belvilla by OYO Casa VoLa!
Benidorm Bliss: My Real-Life Weekend at Belvilla by OYO Casa VoLa - Was it REALLY Bliss? (Spoiler: Mostly!)
Okay, buckle up, because I just got back from a whirlwind weekend at Belvilla by OYO Casa VoLa, and let me tell you, "Benidorm Bliss" is a tagline that had me intrigued. Especially after the last year we've all had. I needed bliss, I needed sun, I needed… well, I needed a break. This review? Consider it less a meticulously crafted travel brochure and more a chaotic, unfiltered diary of my experience.
First things first: Accessibility. Listen, I'm not exactly a mobility expert, but I did scope things out. The website says accessible, but the reality is… mixed. Elevators? Check. Pretty crucial for a villa, and they had one. But the details? Murky. Call ahead. Dig deeper. They list "Facilities for disabled guests" but the specifics are MIA. My advice? Communicate DIRECTLY with the property before you book if accessibility is a must. I saw some subtle things that hinted at some accommodations, but I can't vouch for the extent.
Cleanliness and Safety: This bit? THIS is where Belvilla gets serious brownie points. After the last 18 months, safety is HUGE. They're all in. The "Anti-viral cleaning products" seemed to be doing their job because the villa smelled clean – not like a hospital, but a genuinely fresh, well-cared for clean. "Daily disinfection of common areas"? Yep. They were on it. So many hand sanitizers! I swear I walked past a hand sanitizer dispenser every 10 feet. And they even had "Professional-grade sanitizing services" between stays. I am so relieved that they're taking it seriously. This is a BIG win in my book.
The Food & Dining situation? Okay, let’s unpack this. I opted for the "Breakfast in room", because, let’s face it, who wants to get dressed before coffee? The "Breakfast takeaway service" was available too, which I thought was a nice touch for excursions or lazy mornings. The menu was… fine. Not earth-shattering. The coffee? Adequate. (I'm a snob, I know, but coffee is important!) The "Asian breakfast"? Tempting, but I chickened out. There was a "Vegetarian restaurant" option, which I appreciated, even though I'm a carnivore at heart. They did have a "Poolside bar"… and that, my friends, was a highlight. Sipping a cocktail by the pool, the sun blazing down… pure, unadulterated bliss.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax? Okay, this is where it gets interesting. They boast a "Pool with a view". And it's true. Absolutely stunning. Infinity pool, overlooking the city… it's Instagram gold. But here’s a confession: they do have a sauna and spa, but I didn't try it. Spa treatments are my kryptonite. Too…pampering? Too much pressure to relax perfectly? I get stressed about spas. I saw the "Body scrub" and “Massage” options, and I just… panicked. But a friend of mine went and said it was divine. So, maybe next time.
The Internet Access & Tech Stuff: Alright, let's be real. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? YES. Crucial. Internet [LAN]? Didn't even check. But the Wi-Fi was solid. Strong enough for streaming my favorite shows. I am a little out of love with the world when I can't watch my shows.
Services and Conveniences: They had a "Concierge". Always a nice touch, but I didn't really need them. The staff was friendly, but the vibe wasn’t overly intrusive. And the "Laundry service"?! Game changer. Especially after a weekend of poolside cocktails. Dry cleaning? Ironing service? All there. They clearly thought of everything. I feel slightly annoyed I didn't need any of these!
The Rooms: Now, for the juicy stuff. The "Benidorm Bliss" villa. I was in a "Non-smoking" room (thank god) with "Air conditioning," (THANK. GOD.). The bed was comfy, and the blackout curtains were a lifesaver. I'm a light sleeper so the "Soundproof rooms" were a big plus. I was actually looking for a "Couple's Room". This was perfect for my husband and I. They had "Hair dryer", which is essential, and "Complimentary tea" and coffee, which, again, I didn't use that much. I'm starting to think I'm not a very good customer.
For the Kids: I didn’t bring any kids, but I did see other families. They advertised "Babysitting service" and “Kids meal”. And the pool seemed geared towards families. So, a win-win.
Getting Around: "Airport transfer", "Taxi service", "Car park [free of charge]". I had my own car, but the parking was easy.
The Quirks and Imperfections: Here’s where it gets real. This isn't a fault of the villa itself, but the location… Benidorm is… well, it's Benidorm. Loud, bright, a little… well, let’s just say it has a certain “charm.” The noise from the street, at least in my room, was minimal, but at the pool? It's there. You HAVE to be prepared for it. It's not a secluded sanctuary. It's a fun, lively place.
The Stream-of-Consciousness Moment: I'm sitting here, trying to remember EVERYTHING. What did I really love? The pool. Unquestionably. It’s a highlight. That feeling of the sun on your skin, the gentle breeze… pure joy. This pool is so good that it actually changed my whole outlook on Benidorm.
Final Verdict: Belvilla by OYO Casa VoLa offers a solid experience. It isn’t PERFECT, not perfectly manicured but if you're looking for somewhere safe, clean, and with a killer pool, then absolutely go. It's not a 5-star luxury escape, but it's a comfortable base for exploring Benidorm and, most importantly, relaxing. And hey, sometimes a little chaos can be a good thing.
Arnhem Bungalow Paradise: Forest Views & Stunning Garden!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's pristine itinerary. This is… my Benidorm blueprint, and trust me, it's gonna get messy. We're talking Belvilla by OYO Casa VoLa, Costa Blanca, Spain. And I'm already feeling a delightful mix of "OMG SUN!" and "Please, don't let me embarrass myself."
Day 1: Arrival and the "Oh Dear God, Where's the Wifi?" Debacle
- Morning (ish - because, let's be real, I'm not a morning person): Touchdown! Alicante airport. Now, getting from the airport to Casa VoLa? Let's just say my meticulously planned "bus and train" strategy went straight to hell when I realized I'd forgotten to pre-book the train. Cue a frantic scramble, dodgy Spanish (or what I thought was Spanish), and eventually, a taxi. Honestly? So much easier, albeit more expensive. Lesson learned: future self, pre-book the damn train!
- Emotional reaction: Relief mixed with mild panic sweat. Seriously, the heat hit me like a brick wall of sunshine. And the airport vending machine? More expensive than a London coffee. Sigh.
- Afternoon: Casa VoLa! Finally. Gorgeous views. Pictures don't do it justice, honestly. But… the Wifi. Or, rather, the lack of it. Spent a solid hour wrestling with the router, muttering under my breath about the futility of modern life. This is where the "holiday" guilt started to creep in. The Instagram Stories would have to wait. For now, the pool beckoned.
- Quirky observation: The pool is pristine. I suspect this is because I'm terrified of looking like a complete tourist.
- Evening: Okay, dinner. Found a little tapas place. Ordered way too much (naturally). The patatas bravas were… divine. A little too much garlic, though. Woke up at 3am.
Day 2: Benidorm Beach: Expectations vs. Reality (and a sunburn I'll Regret Later)
- Morning: Beach time! I packed a beach read, a fancy sun hat, and an optimistic attitude. Reality? The sand was… everywhere. In my hair, between my toes, in my sandwich. But the sea was beautiful, a shimmering turquoise. Spent a good hour just staring at it, feeling completely lost, and completely in love with the sea.
- Anecdote: There was a rogue seagull. Swooped down. Stole a chip. The audacity! I swear, I saw him smirk.
- Afternoon: Sunburn. Oops. Should've reapplied sunscreen. Shoulda, woulda, coulda. Spent the afternoon applying copious amounts of aloe vera and cursing my fair skin.
- Evening: Old Town Benidorm. So lively! So…British. The pubs were packed, the karaoke was in full swing, and I saw a guy in a banana costume. Needed to walk to escape from the noise. I was craving fresh air. Found a cute restaurant away from the main strip. Paela. Amazing. Went home a little tipsy and very very content.
Day 3: Exploring Beyond the Beach and The Terrifying Cable Car
- Morning: Time for a change of pace. Headed inland. Rented a car. I got lost. Twice. The sat-nav? It's clearly out to get me. But, hey, I eventually found my destination: a charming little village nestled in the mountains. The drive? Breathtaking. The views, the winding roads…wow!
- Opinioniated Language: Honestly, it's a crime to be in Benidorm and not explore the interior.
- Afternoon: Found a charming local restaurant. Ate far too much cheese, and drank a delicious local wine.
- Evening: The cable car. The Teleférico. This was meant to be romantic, scenic, and breathtaking. It was…terrifying. Height is not my friend. Clung to the handrails like a limpet. The views from the top… stunning. Still, I was relieved to make it back down.
- Rambling: Okay, the views were amazing, but I swear during the ascent my heart was doing somersaults. And don't even get me started on the cliffs. Absolutely not. I am never going on one again. If I could, I'd go back and stay in the restaurant with the cheese. I still have nightmares about the cables, even now…
Day 4: The Deluge of Food and The Search for a Proper Coffee
- Morning: Market Madness: Visited the local market. Overwhelmed. So. Many. Olives. So many cured meats and delicious bread. I bought way too much, nearly wept when I realised I had no way of carrying it back. But also bought some lovely souvenirs.
- Stream of Consciousness: Okay, so I needed a shopping bag. I was overwhelmed. I'm pretty certain I didn't buy anything I needed. Still, the colours, the smells… it was sensory overload in the best way possible.
- Afternoon: Coffee. The holy grail! I'd been on this mission for days: to find a decent cup of coffee. I found one, finally. It was a tiny cafe, tucked away on a side street. Perfect.
- Evening: Another tapas crawl. I cannot get enough tapas. I'm pretty sure I could live on tapas alone. The restaurant with the garlic? Avoid.
Day 5: Saying Goodbye (and Planning My Return)
- Morning: Last swim in the pool. Stared at the pool. Contemplated moving there.
- Messy structure: Should I stay? Should I go? Maybe I should sell everything and learn Spanish.
- Afternoon: Packing. Realizing I'd accumulated an entire suitcase full of useless souvenirs and clothes I'd never wear again.
- Evening: One last paella. One last sunset. One last, lingering look at the sea.
- Emotional reaction: Sad. But also…ready. Ready for the next adventure, which undoubtedly will involve more sun, more food, and more glorious, beautiful messes.
And there you have it. My Benidorm adventure. It wasn't perfect. It was hot, it was slightly chaotic, and I'm pretty sure I spent half my time lost. But it was mine. And I wouldn't trade a single sunburn, a single wrong turn, or a single rogue seagull for anything. Now, to start planning the next trip…
Tavistock's Dream Holiday Home: Garden, BBQ, Fireplace! (Plymouth)
Benidorm Bliss: Your Dream Villa Awaits (Maybe... at Belvilla by OYO Casa VoLa!) - FAQs!
Alright, so you're thinking about Benidorm and maybe this Villa, Casa VoLa, through Belvilla by OYO? Buckle up, buttercup. I've got some *opinions* and real-world experience, not just the shiny brochure promises. Let's get messy.
1. Is this *really* "Bliss"? Because, you know, Benidorm...
"Bliss"? Well, that depends. Are you after the quiet, chamomile-tea-sipping kind of bliss? Then, probably not. Benidorm is Benidorm. It's glitter, drag queens, thumping basslines till 3 AM, and enough fish and chips to sink a battleship. But, and this is a big but, the *villa* itself? Potentially. Casa VoLa *could be* your Oasis. My experience? Let's just say my tolerance for geriatric karaoke was thoroughly tested. But the pool... oh, the pool. That was a solid ten out of ten on the bliss-o-meter. Even when I had to fish out a rogue inflatable flamingo. The sheer *contrast* of thumping music and then this little paradise was... well... interesting.
2. Okay, Belvilla by OYO – is that a red flag? I've heard... things...
Okay, yeah, let's address the elephant in the room. OYO. Look, I went in bracing for the worst, okay? Think budget airline customer service levels. My initial reservation was... complicated. Like, involving a panicked call to customer service (who were, shockingly, pretty helpful once I got through). There was a bit of a mix up with another guest. The thing is... it was eventually sorted. The villa management was *okay*. Not five-star perfection, but perfectly acceptable, especially for the price point. My advice? Read reviews, be prepared, and document EVERYTHING before you arrive. Take photos! Screenshot confirmation emails! Get a life vest because you might need it.
...Seriously though, the house was great. The garden, also great. Just, y'know, be *prepared*.
3. What's the villa *really* like? Don't hold back.
Alright, here's the unfiltered truth. It's a villa. It has a pool. That's the immediate selling point, right? The pool was AMAZING. Crystal clear, perfect temperature, and big enough to actually *swim* in (unlike some sad, glorified paddling pools I've encountered). The house? Pretty darn spacious. Expect the usual: bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen with potentially questionable equipment (check the reviews!). My experience? One kitchen appliance was... shall we say... *past its prime*. But hey, that's part of the charm, right? Also, they supplied dish soap. Score!
**Pro Tip:** Check the photos *carefully* and see if the appliances are as old as they seem. Some of these villas can be a bit... dated. But honestly? I spent 90% of my time in the pool, so who cares?
4. How far is it from the beach? And the *action*?
Alright, location, location, location! This is KEY. Casa VoLa is, according to the listing... "close," whatever *that* means. (Belvilla marketing teams, please. Don't! Just tell us the kilometers!). Expect to take a taxi or a bus. Or, if you're feeling ambitious (and don't care about your feet), it's a decent walk. My experience? We took the bus. Easy peasy lemon squeezy... most of the time. But there were a *few* nights where the bus was *very* late, and we were *very* hungry waiting for dinner. And... the walk back? After a few sangrias? Forget about it. Be prepared for some logistical gymnastics if you're going out at night.
5. What about the neighbors? Are they loud?
Oh, the neighbors. This is where the "Benidorm experience" really comes into play. Because you *will* have neighbors. And they *will* be doing... things. My experience? One night, there was a full-blown karaoke contest going on next door. The rendition of "Bohemian Rhapsody"? Let's just say, it wasn't Brian May. The pool, however, still a sanctuary. I bought earplugs. Recommendation: Bring earplugs. And maybe a sense of humor.
Honestly? It added to the Benidorm-ness. It was part of the tapestry. The very loud, slightly off-key tapestry.
6. Is it family-friendly? Or more for… well, let's say, "adults"?
Families? Yes, depending on your kids. There's a pool, space to run around etc. But, Benidorm, remember? There's a lot going on. The party atmosphere is *everywhere*. My experience? I saw everything from toddlers in swimsuits to... well... a gentleman in a sequined thong. Multiple times. It depends on what you're okay with your family seeing.
If you're after a quiet family holiday, I'd maybe look at something slightly further from the town. But if you're up for the madness, then hey, go for it!
7. Best advice?
My best advice? Lower your expectations, embrace the chaos, bring earplugs, and for the love of all that is holy, pack sunscreen. And definitely check the reviews. Seriously, read ALL the reviews. They'll give you a much better picture of what to expect than any marketing brochure ever will. And if you can get past the potential OYO-ness, loud neighbors and dodgy appliances, then, yeah, you might just find your piece of bliss.
