Melia in Barlavento Islands from AU$477

"We stayed at Vila Verde for 2 weeks over Christmas and New Year in a huge apartment. It has a very relaxed and chilled out feel in the complex, an others mentioned parts need updating but this is being done. The staff are all polite and friendly from the security guards cheering me on my morning run to the reception staff being so helpful and the housekeeping services ensuring our room was always spotlessly clean. It’s a short walk, hotel shuttle or a €5 taxi to the hustle and bustle of Santa Maria where there’s lots to see and do. There is also a private beach which is quiet and peaceful too. We would definitely recommend and return here as it’s just the peaceful relaxing stay we were wanting."

"Our host Lucia and her Senegalese friend were extremely friendly and helpful, and they made our stay in Sal great. The first night we slept in a shared dorm which was a bit cramped and didn't have enough electric outlets to comfortably charge devices. It was also hard for everyone to keep the shared bathroom floors clean from sand and dirt with only mops as the showers frequently splashed lots of water. The second night we got a smaller room that we shared with two other people and that night was a lot more comfortable. The top floor shared spaces and kitchen were superb. The breakfast was great! Muito obrigado to both of you! :) "

"The room was amazing and the front desk service. The only bad experience was the dinning area and bar. The staff are not trained the right way and lack customer service "

"Great staff, tremendous food and an awesome pool for kids and adults. "

"The staff the RIU offer and the location were great."

"Séjour très agréable, l’hôtel est proche de la plage et surveillé en permanence avec des agents de sécurité. Bien aménagé avec restaurant plage. Il y a aussi le restaurant la Tortue en soirée qui est plus intime avec son bar. Personnel très poli, souriant. Hôtel très propre. "

"Top"

"Nice hotel - great staff - right next to ferry port "

"Staff were all fantastic, especially the waiting staff but also Black Crow security. The food was exceptionally good. We don’t usually choose all inc but we need not have worried. Food was varied and menus well thought out and fantastic quality . Pool side restaurant also excellent. Rooms big, immaculate, stylish, walk in showers. All obviously newly refurbished. Towels and linens 5 star quality. "