It’s been 30 years since I went to the Costa Del Sol and I’m happy to say I won’t be returning. We stayed here for one night en route elsewhere. Firstly the hotel is good value, in a central location with parking next door (€26 per day). The reception staff and bell boys are good. Most of the rest of the staff are ok but over worked. The gym is reasonable but probably too small unless you go early or late. There are over 100 rooms per floor and around 7-8 floors. The hotel pool is not equipped for this many people. The beach is a short walk but very crowded and belongings not safe if unattended. There is a 10-20 min queue for breakfast after 930am. On Friday night there was an ABBA tribute band if you like that sort of thing, and took me back to the 70s and the last time I was here. It’s got a vibe this place. Just not the sort I want.

Not sure if this was our sixth or seventh stay on The Level at Melia Alicante. On this trip we again selected a marina view room as the view of the water and the city are wonderful and the balcony gets the evening sun. As ever the room was immaculately maintained by the housekeeping staff and the team in the Level lounge were welcoming and attentive. Special mention to Rosio and Hisham. The offer of snacks and drinks in the lounge is up with the best we have enjoyed in the many Melia's and Gran Melia's we have stayed in. If you have read other reviews you will know that space around the Level infinity pool is limited with as many sunbeds as possible packed in to accommodate as many guests as they can. Staff do what they can to ensure unused beds are cleared but this does not always happen. That said, we choose the hotel for it's closeness to the beach and sea and the beautiful city. The outside terrace overlooking the promenade and beach which opened a few years ago was a great addition. When it first opened it was designated a no smoking area but that seems to have changed. That is a shame, also because the air conditioning in that part of the lounge seems to suck the smoke in too. The only negative to another otherwise wonderful stay.