Challenging the benchmark of hospitality

For an all-inclusive break PAUL LAMBIS checks into a hotel in Protaras run in tandem with those in other countries

Figuring out where to begin and what to look for can be tricky if you have never taken an all-inclusive vacation. For those who feel like life is more of an office, it is good to give your brain a break and not think about anything other than cocktails by the pool or beach, working on that long-deserved tan. The greatest way to unwind entirely stress-free is to book an all-inclusive holiday and let the attentive staff of the resort handle everything else.

I reserved an all-inclusive mini-break at the adult-only, Leonardo Crystal Cove Hotel and Spa by the Sea in Protaras. Soon enough, I was basking in blissful solitude, lounging by the pool with my nose in a good book.

Upon arrival, I was surprised by the hotel’s customer-centric service that included a prompt, yet detailed registration process outlining the hotel’s facilities and services.

“We strive to stay ahead of the game so that our guests are satisfied from the start, and they know what to expect from their time with us,” Front Office Manager Effie Komodromou said.

Recognising that a vacation’s top priorities include relaxation, comfort and excellent service, Quality Manager Marta Telemahou is on hand to ensure the Leonardo maintains its reputation as a “four-star hotel with five-star service”.

“When hotels create a home-away-from-home environment guests are more likely to return and recommend it to others,” Telemahou said. “It also makes their stay more memorable and enjoyable, which is what true hospitality is all about.”

I was fortunate to be on the receiving end of that hospitality on entering the contemporary, and generously sized, tranquil sanctuary of my room for the first time. Aside from the fluffy bathrobes and slippers, plush bedding, extra pillows, fruit platter and complimentary wine, all the sleek rooms at the hotel offer a large-screen satellite television and free Wi-Fi, while the junior suites feature a hot tub on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.

Given that my arrival was a few hours before check-in time, I headed over to the Blue Horizon Restaurant for a sizeable, all-you-can-eat buffet, which included everything from traditional Cypriot delicacies and your typical American breakfast to gourmet dishes.

As part of the all-inclusive package, the Blue Horizon Restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner where guests are taken on a culinary journey of explosive flavours within the Mediterranean-inspired dishes, some of which are prepared right in front of you, and decadent sweet treats from the international dessert counter.

Although Telemahou overseas all aspects of the hotel, the food, ambiance, cleanliness and timing of the kitchen are the visible elements of the guest experience, which are managed by Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Manager Antonis Dispyros.

“Antonis takes a hands-on approach, looking at the nationalities of our guests and customising some meals according to their preferences,” Telemahou said.

Leonardo Crystal Cove Hotel and Spa by the Sea boasts two in-house restaurants and two bars. From traditional Greek and Mediterranean to authentic Italian cuisine, “at the heart of every restaurant’s potential for success, is the quality and consistency of the guest experience.”

It is also an eco-friendly hotel, adopting sustainable ways and products to protect the environment. “Our hotel practices green living by using locally sourced products, reducing plate waste, introducing digital technology, and controlling energy use. Sustainability is extremely important to us, and it requires constant work and effort,” Telemahou added.

When it comes to rejuvenation, Leonardo’s distinctive spa has you covered with skilled therapists providing specialised treatments.

“Those seeking a quieter form of activity will be spoilt for choice in one of the many mind-body balance and healing exercises, which include yoga and meditation, aimed at transforming everyday experiences into mindful moments,” Telemahou said.

The hotel also features a tennis court, fitness centre, and various recreational activities, such as table tennis, Boccia ball, darts and card games.

While the hotel’s location literally places the Mediterranean Sea under one’s nose, a short stroll will still get you to some of the area’s most well-known sandy beaches and the famed nightlife of Protaras and Ayia Napa. More importantly, Leonardo Crystal Cove Hotel and Spa by the Sea ensures accessibility to people with disabilities, everything from parking, hotel rooms and common areas to pool and beach access, without compromise.

Although one of the island’s more recent hotels, Leonardo’s association with the internationally renowned Leonardo Hotels brand ensures that this hotel is part of a family of hospitality professionals, providing exceptional service, creating memorable experiences, and constantly challenging the benchmark of hospitality.