Stayed for a week at the Monterey Royal and am very impressed with the standard of accommodation. It's like having your own apartment abroad, and as part of a "welcome pack" the fridge was already stocked with bread, milk, eggs and water!

The Jacuzzi on the balcony was an unexpected bonus, but be very careful as the floor is extremely slippy when wet. After a fall, we used the rubber matt that is normally meant for the bath.

The cleanliness is top-notch, and the staff very friendly. They'll ring the door-bell before coming in to see whether you want the room serviced that day. And every day surfaces are wiped down/polished, floors are mopped, towels changed, etc.

The Monterey Royal also had its own pool, specifically for the apartments, and lifeguard was on duty.

It should be noted that this was our first trip with Club La Costa, who, inevitably wanted us to sign up for a "freehold" lifelong membership. As a consequence we were in the 5 star Monterey Royal, which is next door to the Monterey (although reception, internet access and restaurants are all in the same place).

The Monterey (which we didn't stay in) looked okay. They get the sun for the afternoon and full evening, and the general pool looked busy but fun. Again, a lifeguard was on duty.

Restaurants on site are a bit limited. The one by the pool serves until 5pm, and offers Jacket Potatoes, fantastic baguettes (I asked for cheese and salad which wasn't on the menu, but they were very willing to make for me), pizzas, breakfasts, etc.

From 7pm the evening restaurant near the reception opens. The food is extremely good, and not at all expensive. It is best to book, especially on a Friday night when all the newbies arrive. Try the flambe'ed strawberries - they're fab.

Monterey seems to cater exclusively for english tourists, and everything is in english, even the menues! Not good for those seeking a more authentically spanish break in the sun!

The location is a bit restrictive, and not advisable for any body with mobility problems, or if hiring a car, people who can't park properly! The hill down to the "town" is extremely steep, and it's best to avoid walking up it! Taxi's are relatively cheap.

If looking for a different place to eat in the evening, take a cab (booked through reception) to La Caleta, which has a number of restaurants. La Vieja is extremely lovely, little bit pricey, but the food was excellent. The waiter recommended a very nice wine, and a local fish dish. Also, there were lots of extremely well-dressed locals (ie. not bikini-clad) dining there which is always a good sign that the restaurant is of a good standard.

I wouldn't head into Playa las Americas unless necessary, it's too touristy and seems to cater solely for hen/stag do's.