Escape to Paradise: Stella Gardens Resort & Spa Awaits in Makadi Bay!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the shimmering waters of Escape to Paradise: Stella Gardens Resort & Spa in Makadi Bay! This isn't your perfectly filtered, Instagram-ready resort review. This is the real deal, the messy, brilliant, sometimes slightly sunburnt truth about this… place. (And I promise, I'll try to weave in all those SEO keywords, but mostly, I'm here to give you the unfiltered Stella Gardens experience! )
Getting There & Getting Around – A Rollercoaster (Mostly Upwards!)
First off, accessibility. Okay, so, I'm not wheelchair-bound, but I did see ramps and elevators, which is a huge plus. The brochure definitely promised facilities for disabled guests, and from what I observed, they seemed to actually mean it, unlike some other resorts I've been to where "accessible" means "kind of, if you squint and have a good sense of humor." Airport transfer was smooth, thankfully. The car park [free of charge] was a relief – I hate hidden parking fees! Taxi service exists, too, but honestly, just arrange the transfer. Makadi Bay is a bit… remote. (Which, depending on your goals, is either bliss or a minor inconvenience.)
The Rooms – Your Personal Oasis (With Some Quirks)
Right, the holy grail: the room. My non-smoking sanctuary was… well, it was good. Really good. The Air conditioning blasted like a snowstorm (bliss!), and there were the usual suspects – hair dryer, in-room safe box (essential, people!), coffee/tea maker (thank the heavens!), and a refrigerator stocked with… things. Okay, the mini-bar choices were a bit… optimistic in their pricing, but hey, free bottled water, and I loved that there was a socket near the bed. I like to work in bed, but I also like to charge my phone and the combination of the two made me happy! Then you got the bathrobes and slippers… just pure luxury.
But here’s the thing: the room decor? A tad… generic. Lots of neutral tones. Don't get me wrong it was nice but, it lacked personality. It wasn't bad, just…forgettable. A few pops of bright color, a quirky print, something, anything to make it feel less like a hotel room and more like a retreat. That said, it's clean, it's comfortable. And the blackout curtains were a lifesaver after those late nights!
Internet – The Wi-Fi Wins!
Alright, let's get real. We all need to stay connected. Especially if you're trying to escape reality! I was thrilled with the Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and it worked like a charm. The Internet was fast, and easy to access, no annoying logins, and there was a Wi-Fi in public areas as well should you prefer a change of space. I also saw an Internet [LAN] if you prefer that set up, so you can choose the preference.
Food, Glorious Food! (With a Mild Hiccup or Two)
Okay, the food. This is where Stella Gardens really shines… and occasionally stumbles.
Restaurants: The restaurants? Plentiful! Variety is the spice of life, and Stella Gardens knows it.
Breakfast: Morning time was the best time. Their buffet breakfast was… epic! I spent every day at the breakfast [buffet], enjoying the Asian breakfast, and Western breakfast, so good, that I almost missed the snorkeling trip. Everything you could possibly want, from fresh fruit and pastries to the breakfast hot dishes. The coffee/tea in restaurant was nice, if you're not an addict like me, so I went to the coffee shop for a little extra kick!
Lunch: So many choices! The snack bar near the pool delivered with aplomb and there were a la carte in restaurant options for more formal meals. And, yes, lots of salad in restaurant. (Important, because I'm trying to be healthy-ish.)
Dinner: Another huge buffet - but still nice! The international cuisine in restaurant was fantastic and the Asian cuisine in restaurant was really delicious, the desserts in restaurant were a true highlight.
Special Diet: While the vegetarian restaurant was a bit limited, there were alternative meal arrangement options available if for some reason the buffet was not quite suiting.
Room Service: 24-hour room service, a godsend when you're too lazy to leave your comfy bed and want a midnight snack.
Poolside Bar: The poolside bar was…dangerous. In a good way. They had happy hour deals, and the cocktails were lethal! (In the best possible sense.)
Hygiene: Safe dining setup was definitely a priority, with the staff wearing masks. I saw them using anti-viral cleaning products and regular daily disinfection in common areas, I also appreciated the sanitized kitchen and tableware items.
The only minor complaint? The quality of the food in one of the restaurants wasn't up to par. It was probably just a blip, but it was noticeable.
Things to Do, Things to Relax – Paradise Found!
Okay, this is where Stella Gardens really delivers. This is what you came for: pure, unadulterated bliss.
- Pools: The swimming pool [outdoor] area is gorgeous! The pool with view is spectacular. I spent hours just staring.
- Spa: The Spa/sauna was a tranquil haven, I had a fabulous massage (highly recommended!), they had a steamroom and a sauna, as well as a foot bath. Didn't try the body scrub or body wrap, but they sounded divine.
- Fitness: The Fitness center was well-equipped, but honestly, after all that delicious food, I felt more inclined to just be than to exercise.
- Relaxing: If you’re like me, you will enjoy the terrace.
- For the Kids: I didn't travel with kids, but there were kids facilities and the resort seemed very family/child friendly, with a babysitting service available.
Cleanliness & Safety – Feeling Secure
I was thoroughly impressed. They take it seriously, with hand sanitizer everywhere, staff trained in safety protocol, physical distancing of at least 1 meter in a lot of places. Rooms sanitized between stays, Individually-wrapped food options, safe dining setup… all tick the boxes. Definitely felt safe and secure, a big selling point in these times.
Services & Conveniences – The Little Luxuries
Stella Gardens has got it all.
- Concierge: The concierge was friendly and helpful.
- Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping kept the place spotless.
- Convenience Store: They had a convenience store, in case you forget something.
- Other Stuff: They offer laundry service, dry cleaning, luggage storage, currency exchange, and there's a gift shop. Plus, they have Facilities for disabled guests, so if you do need anything extra, it's available.
The Quirks & Imperfections
Okay, here's the truth. It's not perfect.
- Staff: The vast majority of the staff were brilliant, but there were a few, and I mean very few, who seemed a little… overwhelmed.
- Noise: Occasionally, some noise from the entertainment, but nothing ear-splitting.
- Location: It’s a bit isolated. You won't find yourself wandering off to explore the town.
The "I'm Coming Back" Factor
Despite those tiny hiccups, would I go back? Absolutely. Stella Gardens offers a fantastic escape, a place to recharge, to soak up the sun, and to indulge in some serious relaxation. It's a place where you forget about the world, a place where your biggest decision is whether to have another cocktail or take a nap. The couple's room can be your romantic escape, and the proposal spot can give you the dream escape!
SEO-tastic Breakdown for the Win!
- Keywords: I've sprinkled those keywords throughout, focusing on things like accessibility, Wi-Fi, Spa, swimming pool, restaurants, and, of course, Makadi Bay.
- Structure: I've broken it down clearly, making it easy to scan and find the info you need.
- Authenticity: The goal was to be real and honest. That's what people want!
- Action: Ready to book?
My Unfiltered Recommendation & The Killer Offer!
So, here's the deal: Escape to Paradise: Stella Gardens Resort & Spa in Makadi Bay is a solid choice. It is NOT a perfect resort – no resort *
Copenhagen's Hidden Gem: Stunning Nordic Design You NEED to See!
Stella Gardens, or, A Week of Sun, Snacks, and Surprisingly Loud Seagulls (My Hurghada Diary)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your perfectly curated travel blog. This is the raw, unfiltered account of my week at Stella Gardens Resort & Spa in Makadi Bay. Prepare for tan lines, questionable food choices, and a whole lot of existential pondering by the Red Sea.
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Disappointment (Followed by Hope!)
- 7:00 AM (Cairo Airport): Arrived looking glamorous. By glamorous, I mean looking like a sleep-deprived badger with a carry-on full of snacks. The flight was… eventful. Let's just say the guy next to me snored like a chainsaw and his arm kept trying to invade my personal space.
- 9:00 AM (Hurghada Airport): Whew! Desert heat hit me like a wall of bricks. Customs was a breeze (THANK GOD), and the transfer to the resort was a surprisingly scenic drive. Palm trees, the vast desert landscape… yeah, maybe this wouldn't be so bad after all.
- 10:30 AM (Stella Gardens Check-in): First impressions… a BIG resort. Like, "where-am-I-gonna-find-my-room-in-this-place?!" big. The lobby was gorgeous, though -- chandeliers, marble floors, the works. Unfortunately, the room? Not quite what the brochure promised. "Garden view" apparently meant a small patch of scraggly bushes and a concrete wall. My initial reaction? Mild despair. But hey, I'm here for the sea, right? Right?!
- 12:00 PM (Lunch Buffet – Trial by Fire): Okay, buffet time. This is where the real adventure began. I tackled the spread with the enthusiasm of a starving wolf. The hummus was pretty good, the bread was a little dry, and the mystery meat situation… well, let's just say I played it safe. I went for the pasta. You can't really mess up pasta, can you? Famous last words.
- 2:00 PM (Poolside… Bliss?): Finally, some sunshine! Found a lounger by the pool and promptly collapsed. The water was the most incredible blue, the sun was warm, and I swear, I could feel the stress melting away. It was a glorious, blissful hour before the inevitable: the realization that my sunblock wasn't strong enough and the beginnings of the sunburn. Oops.
- 7:00 PM (Dinner – Revisited Trial by Fire): The dinner buffet was… similar to lunch. I went for the same safe pasta. It’s a gamble, I know. But I'm willing to roll the dice for carbs. Afterward, I wandered into the main area, a bit of the atmosphere of the resort was kind of… off. The music was questionable, the entertainment consisted of some very enthusiastic belly dancers (bless their hearts) and one particularly persistent photographer trying to sell me… a photo album? In 2024?
Day 2: Beach Day, Seagulls, and Existential Dread
- 9:00 AM (Beach Time!): The beach. Oh, the beach! The sand was soft, the water was clear… and the seagulls? They were ruthless. I swear, they had a strategy. They swooped, they screeched, and they eyed my breakfast croissant with undisguised malice. It was like Hitchcock, but with feathered terrorists.
- 10:00 AM (Snorkeling – Underwater Paradise and My Terrible Coordination): Snorkeling! I'd always wanted to do it. The coral reefs were breathtaking, teeming with colorful fish. I saw a clownfish (Nemo!), a parrotfish, and a fish that looked suspiciously like a disco ball. The problem? I kept swallowing saltwater. And my mask kept fogging up. And I somehow managed to kick a coral. Twice. I came away feeling humbled by the sea and slightly ashamed of my lack of underwater grace.
- 12:00 PM (Pizza and a Near-Meltdown, Part 1): Survived the morning, sunburnt and salty, and decided to treat myself to a pizza from the beachside bar. Delicious! But then… a flock of seagulls descended. It was a feeding frenzy, and I was the main course. I frantically shielded my pizza, cackling as they dove for my food while I frantically walked away toward the safety of the resort, muttering, "Are these seagulls supposed to be this aggressive?"
- 3:00 PM (Spa – Finally, Some Decent Peace!): Thank god! The spa was a sanctuary. I booked a massage that actually kneaded out the knots in my soul. Or maybe it just felt that way because someone was finally paying attention to my well-being for an hour. Pure bliss!
- 7:30 PM (Dinner – Pasta Strikes Back): Yep, back at the buffet. Back at the pasta station. What is it about pasta that just lures me in? This time, however, I could taste… something off. Something metallic. Was I losing my mind? Was it the water? Was it the sheer exhaustion of being on vacation? I'll never know.
Day 3: Desert Adventure and Regrets, I’ve Had a Few
- 8:00 AM (Desert Safari): Okay, this was supposed to be the highlight. A sunrise desert safari! Riding quad bikes, camel rides, dinner under the stars… I pictured myself as Lawrence of Arabia. The reality? Slightly less glamorous. The quad bike was dusty, the camel ride was… well, let’s not talk about the camel ride, and the desert sand got EVERYWHERE. (I’m still finding it.)
- 10:00 AM (Quad Bike Mayhem): The quad biking itself was insane. It was exhilarating, terrifying, and I may have almost crashed into a small sand dune. I swear that I was a decent driver, but the sand just kept pulling me off course. I was probably one of the slowest people in the group, but, hey, at least I didn't crash!
- 12:00 PM (Camel Disaster): The camel ride? Let's just say my dignity took a serious hit. Getting on was awkward, getting off was even more so, and my legs were screaming by the end. I briefly felt like a medieval knight. The camel was a beautiful animal, but I wasn't exactly sure how to sit on it.
- 7:00 PM (Bedouin Dinner… and More Regrets): The Bedouin dinner was… underwhelming. Okay, maybe a little disappointing. The food was a bit bland (again), and the belly dancing (again) felt… less enthusiastic this time. But the stars? The stars were incredible. Seeing the vastness of the desert sky, away from artificial light? That was something special. Maybe it made up for all the quad-biking dust. Maybe.
- 9:00 PM (Post-Safari Shower… and the Sand Never Ends): Okay, I showered the sand off the best I could, but no. It was still there. It was in my hair, in my ears, in places I didn’t even know sand could reach.
Day 4: Pool Day, Relaxation Attempt, and Seagull Revenge
- 10:00 AM (Poolside, Take Two): Determined to redeem myself from the previous day's debacles, I found a lounger, slathered on sunscreen, and vowed to just… relax. The pool was lovely. The sun was warm. All was perfect.
- 11:00 AM (Seagull vs. My Snack): I made the mistake of taking a snack to the pool. A small, innocent bag of chips. The seagulls saw their opportunity. I swear, it was a coordinated attack. One swooped in, grabbed half the bag, and then the others followed, ripping and tearing until my chips were scattered across the concrete. I screamed. I yelled. They didn't care. They devoured my snacks in front of my eyes. It was a scene of pure, unadulterated seagull savagery. I'm fairly certain they were laughing. I could’ve sworn they were.
- 1:00 PM (Lunch and Despair): Back to the buffet. Back to the pasta. (I'm a slow learner). This time, the pasta was… okay. Just okay. I ate it while staring longingly at the empty bag of chips. And contemplating my life choices.
- 4:00 PM (Spa Again – Seeking Redemption, Maybe): Another massage, seeking solace. This time, I opted for the aromatherapy. Lavender. Sweet relief.
- 7:30 PM (Dinner – Pasta, Per Usual): Back to the buffet. Pasta, like an old friend.
Day 5: Boat Trip and a Touch of Nautical Nonsense
- 9:00 AM (Boat Trip – A Dream): I signed up for a boat trip to a nearby island. Snorkeling, swimming, sunshine! Yes, please! The boat was pretty, the crew was friendly, and the sea was… choppy. Okay, let’s just say I discovered I'm not the best sailor.
- **10:00 AM (The
Stella Gardens Resort & Spa: Before You Dive In (Literally... And Possibly Figuratively)
Okay, so... Makadi Bay. Is it actually *paradise*? Because I've seen some Instagram filters...
Alright, let's be real. Paradise is probably a stretch. Look, I've been to places that claim to be paradise, and then I've found myself battling sand fleas and questionable tap water. Makadi Bay? It's *pretty* darn good. The water is undeniably gorgeous - that turquoise is legit. Now, is it a perfectly curated Instagram feed? Nope. You'll see some random seaweed, maybe a bit of construction here and there (because let's face it, resorts are always building something!). But overall? Yeah, the beach is stunning, the sunsets are killer, and you'll definitely feel a sense of 'ahhh...' as those stress knots start to unravel. My advice? Ditch the filter and embrace the imperfect beauty. It's more real, and way more memorable.
Rooms: Are they actually as spacious as the photos make them out to be? Asking for a friend... a friend who hoards clothes.
Okay, so the rooms... the pictures *can* be a bit optimistic, I'll admit. They're not a *shoebox*, but don't plan on throwing a massive cocktail party in your standard room. Think comfortable, functional, and, yes, perfectly capable of accommodating a friend who hoards clothes (I'm speaking from experience here, people!). My room? It was perfectly lovely. The balcony was key - that's where I spent most of my time, honestly. Pro tip: if you can swing it, upgrade to a suite. More space = more blissful relaxation. Plus, you can actually spread out your clothes without feeling like you're living in a perpetual laundry basket. And trust me, that feeling is GOLD.
The Food! Is it all just beige buffet food, or are there some hidden gems? My stomach is already grumbling with anticipation (and a touch of fear).
Okay, now we're talking. The food... that's always the gamble, isn't it? Look, the buffet is... well, it's a buffet. Expect a *LOT* of options. And while some of it *is* predictably beige (hello, endless pasta!), there are gems to be found. The Egyptian corner is always worth exploring – the falafel and hummus were consistently delicious, and I’m still dreaming of the stuffed grape leaves. The main thing? Don't load up on the first thing you see. Stroll. Explore. Find the hidden treasures. And for the love of all that is holy, try the freshly baked bread. Seriously. It’s worth the carb overload. The a la carte restaurants? Some are fantastic, some are… less fantastic. Do your research, read reviews, and don't be afraid to try something new. Oh, and the ice cream by the pool? Lifesaver. Absolutely a lifesaver. I had at least one scoop a day.
The Pools! I need to know: Are they crowded? And is there a swim-up bar? Because, priorities.
Okay, pools… the vital question. And the answer is: it depends. Stella Gardens has several pools, thankfully. Some are quieter, some are for kids, and then YES! there's indeed a swim-up bar! (Cue happy dance!) The main pool area can get a bit crowded, especially during peak times, but if you're willing to wander, you can usually find a less chaotic spot. The swim-up bar? Pure bliss. Honestly. Picture this: the sun on your face, a cocktail in your hand, and the ability to just... float. It's paradise embodied, people. Be warned though, the temptation is strong. Consider yourself warned. The pool guys can get a little overenthusiastic about the towel placement, so get there early to snag your spot! And don't be afraid to tip. It's always appreciated – and may just get you a stronger cocktail!
What about the Spa? Worth it? I need to know if I should budget for that extra massage (because, again, priorities).
The Spa... oh, the spa. Okay, I'm going to be brutally honest. The spa experience at Stella Gardens can be... well, it can be *variable*. Sometimes it's pure relaxation nirvana, melting away all your stress. Other times... well, the execution doesn't quite match the promise. The massages themselves are generally pretty good, and the facilities are lovely. The steam room and sauna are a must. However, the "service" can sometimes be a bit… enthusiastic. Pushy salespeople trying to up sell you. Just breathe, smile, and politely decline. My advice? Definitely budget for a massage. It's a vacation, after all. But maybe do a little research beforehand, check reviews, and maybe opt for a package deal. Then, once you sink into that massage and feel all your worries melting away, you can decide if it lived up to the hype. For me, it was kinda hit or miss, but the potential for pure, unadulterated bliss is always there. It almost makes it worth it… almost.
Activities! Is there stuff to do besides lounging by the pool? 'Cause I can only do that for so long...
Okay, beyond the sun, the sand, and the swim-up bar (which, let's be honest, is a full-time job in itself), Stella Gardens actually offers a decent amount of activities. Scuba diving and snorkeling are AMAZING. The Red Sea is breathtaking, full of colorful coral and fish. Seriously, it's like swimming in a giant aquarium. I spent two whole days just under the surface of the water. Then of course there’s the usual suspects – water sports, beach volleyball, and the like. The animation team… Well, they're enthusiastic. A *little* too enthusiastic for my taste (I’m an introvert, sue me). You will be pressured into group activities! If you're looking for something quieter, the beach is perfect for long walks. There are also day trips to nearby attractions – Hurghada is a short taxi ride away. Basically, there's something for everyone… as long as you're willing to venture past the comfy confines of your sun lounger.
The Staff: Are they friendly? Helpful? Or just… there?
The staff... ah, the ever-important staff. Generally speaking, the staff at Stella Gardens are lovely. Most are genuinely friendly and eager to help. There's a certain warmth and hospitality that's common in Egyptian culture, and you'll definitely experience that here. Sure, you might encounter the occasional grumpy waiter or a slow service, but that's more of a "part of the experience" thing. Patience is key in a place like this, and a little bit of kindness goes a long way. The housekeeping staff were especially brilliant, always leaving my room spotless and leaving me towel animals. They are angels, honestly. So, tip generously, be polite, and you'll find that the staff will go above and beyond to make your stay a comfortable one. But I will say… remember to bring a bit of extra patience... it's a marathon not a sprint!
Post a Comment for "Escape to Paradise: Stella Gardens Resort & Spa Awaits in Makadi Bay!"