Hainan - any tips?

Hey,


Anyone been and if so, what insights can you share regarding what to do, where to stay etc.



Thanks as thinking of going during month of May.

I am not a fan of Hainan -- but this is based on one visit to Sanya 18 months ago so perhaps my perspective is too narrow. It is EXPENSIVE -- when you're staying in the tourist hotels along Yalong Bay there is NOWHERE else to eat unless you take a taxi. Breakfast in the Marriott,where I stayed, was a very good deal, but otherwise the food was more expensive than in a good hotel in Hong Kong. The hotels are full of corporate groups (team building trips, etc.) so there is a lot of noise all the time (screaming on the beach during the day, parties on the lawn at night). The hotel advertised a kids' club / activities for kids -- non-existent, at least when we were there. The beach is really not that big (I think I walked from one end to the other in 45 minutes) so there is absolutely no chance of experiencing any of those awestruck moments when you're alone gazing at the sunset (sunsets not up to much either). There's not much to do away from the resort area, and what there is (hot springs, monkey island, aboriginal village theme park) costs a fortune. Maybe not everyone will agree with me, but I found the place an unmitigated disappointment. Forget the crap about it being "China's Hawaii". It ain't.

Thank you MamaD,


Exactly the kind of review/post I was after.


I was looking for a bit of secluded beach and the people selling the holidays obviously paint a glossy pic for you, when if the reality is like you experienced I would rather not go EVEN if the price is reasonable!


Am now looking at doing the ClubMed option in Bali instead:)

Hi sk76,

Club Med Bali will be a lot more expensive, partly because the flight is more expensive. Still, after you add everything up, the difference in price might not be that great, given the high cost of everything in Sanya. Although Bali is ultra touristy, the natural scenery is still stunning. If you have kids they'll love Club Med. The Club Med type holiday has its drawbacks as well, but you'll get a full programme of activities if you want that, and if not the surroundings are beautiful and relaxing. Enjoy your holiday!