The picture is the view from Puente Romano, a five star resort we crashed from the second day, bought lunch and talked our way into getting a sun lounger.

If you think it’s too good to be true, it probably is. I saw a holiday, a 7 day break in Puerto Banus, close to the resort of Marbella on the Costa Del Sol. It’s cold in Rome right now so we thought we’d get in a bit of late in the year sunshine.

It was a great deal offered at the Blue Bay Banus, the reviews were mixed, the pictures looked OK so decided to go for it.

It was a mistake.

The property was fine, actually quite cute apartment style accommodation (even though it’s a hotel) but it was oldy worldy, and I did quite like the room, high ceilings and local art which was nice, except the phone didn’t work.

The reception was buzzing and very busy every time we seemed to need anything and with no phone working it got frustrating having to walk to speak to anyone.

We did try to get moved but that wasn’t happening without money changing hands.

The pool area was very noisy, even though it was low season. A lot of partying and drinking which wasn’t really our thing. We wanted relaxation.

The sunbeds needed an overhaul, many were broken and not that comfortable to be fair and the breakfast I’d say was 2 star, not 4 star. The juices were out of a machine, the bread was white (no brown) and the jam and marmalade were in plastic.

I’d say this is a great hotel for families on a budget just looking for a good base location.

We ended up at Puente Romano by day, Blue Bay Banus by night.