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Pictured left to right outside the new store are: Paul Hardwick, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents Director of Retail; Emma Bailey, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents; Tutti Taylor, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents; Councillor Candy Vaughan, Mayor of Eastbourne; Trevor Ridler, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents Business Development Manager; and Shirley Waters, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents..
After a smooth Ryanair flight to Palermo, it was just an hour’s transfer time to our hotel – the Grand Palladium Sicilia Resort & Spa. This fully renovated 5-star resort is situated right next to a long sweeping sandy beach to the north of the island. The hotel is stunning and felt fresh and modern, with welcoming public spaces and amazing facilities.
The views from the hotel were absolutely breath taking in every direction. The resort sits on its own stretch of private beach and has beautiful, landscaped gardens and spacious poolside areas.
Mealtimes were a real treat with delicious buffet options as well as a la carte dining, and the staff were very accommodating to those with any food allergies and special dietary requirements. Chang Thai restaurant was a real personal high light for me, and having five different bars meant there was always somewhere for a cold beer or sunset cocktail.
There is the opportunity to enhance your stay by booking their Signature Level rooms, which include a range of benefits such as exclusive dining options, premium drinks and access to reserved areas of the hotel, amongst many other perks.
The hotel can book hire cars and excursions and this is a great way to explore the local area. A trip to beautiful Cefalu is a must - widely acknowledged as one of the most beautiful villages in Sicily. Its winding streets are steeped in history, with its 12th century cathedral, evocative San Stefano Church and ancient ruins atop the hill behind the village. After a bit of culture and shopping there are two beaches to relax on and admire the views.
This trip would be perfect for someone who likes a touch of luxury and wants to combine a relaxing holiday by the pool or on the private beach with exploring the local area. The hotel has good food and a quiet relaxing environment. Nothing was too much trouble for the friendly staff and they did everything they could to make my stay truly memorable.