Unbelievable Pelican Sightings in Spain! (Sol Pelicanos Ocas)
Unbelievable Pelican Sightings in Spain! (Sol Pelicanos Ocas): My Messy, Honest, and Totally Human Review
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to unload on you my experience at Sol Pelicanos Ocas – or, as I like to call it, "Pelican Paradise…with a few hiccups." You see, I'm not your typical travel blogger. I'm more of a "spilled-sangria-on-my-new-dress-while-trying-to-take-a-selfie" kind of traveler. And honestly, that's probably a more accurate portrayal of what a vacation really feels like.
First Impressions: The Good (Mostly)
Right off the bat, the "Unbelievable Pelican Sightings in Spain!" tagline isn't a lie. Although, I spent way more time ogling the sea gulls squawking for chips than I did proper pelicans. The hotel itself? Well, it's big. Really big. Like, "I-got-lost-trying-to-find-the-pool-twice" big. But the lobby is bright, the staff seemed friendly enough (more on that later!), and the initial vibe was definitely "holiday mode: engaged."
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (Prepare to Sweat)
Let's dive into accessibility, shall we? Important stuff. Wheelchair accessibility: The website says it's good, and I'm happy to report that the main areas (lobby, restaurants) are indeed accessible. But (and this is a big but) the terrain around the pool area is a bit of a nightmare. Hilly, uneven, and seriously lacking in ramps. My friend uses a mobility scooter, and it was a battle. Seriously, bring your biceps. They say they have accessible rooms, but honestly, I'd double-check the details before booking if accessibility is a must. They should be upfront about this.
Rooms: Comfort, with a Side of "Where's the Plug?!"
My room? Yeah, it was fine. Clean (thanks to the daily housekeeping!), the air conditioning worked – a godsend in the Spanish heat – and the bed was comfy enough. But the placement of the plugs? Oh, the plugs! One was practically behind the bed, another miles away from the desk. My phone battery spent half the trip pleading for its life. Wi-Fi? It was free, which is always a plus. But the signal was, shall we say, "optimistic" at times. Definitely not reliable for streaming or important work (unless you enjoy rage-quitting). They offer Internet access – LAN in rooms, which is a great backup. Important Note: They do provide Blackout curtains, which are a life-saver. Also, the Window that opens is a welcome touch.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure, Mostly Positive
Okay, let's talk food. The Breakfast [buffet] was… well, it was a buffet. Eggs, bacon, pastries, and enough coffee to fuel a small army. (Okay, maybe that's just me.) The Western breakfast was predictable, but you can't really go wrong with it. They do offer Asian breakfast items. I was too terrified to try it, though. The "A la carte in restaurant" was solid, if a little overpriced. I loved the Poolside bar. Perfect for a lazy afternoon with a cocktail. It's also worth noting that there's a Coffee shop and a Snack bar, so your caffeine and nibble needs are well catered for.
The Great Room Service Debate: My Personal Tragedy
And then… there was room service. This is where things took a distinctly downward turn. I ordered some fries at like 2 am, and I never got them. Seriously. I was so hungry, and those fries never materialized. This happened a couple of times, and I just gave up. Don't rely on room service, people. You'll only end up disappointed. I was tempted, but I didn't end up trying the Breakfast in room, due to my fear of the invisible room service fries.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Day Dreams (and a little bit of Gym-induced Pain)
The swimming pool? Gorgeous, honestly. That Pool with view is to die for. There's also the Swimming pool [outdoor], but I think I only ever stumbled across one pool. I did attempt the Fitness center, I lasted 20 minutes. I then spent the rest of the day feeling like a pile of uncoordinated jello. They have a Spa/sauna, where I did try the Sauna, and felt great! Massage sounds tempting, but I didn't find time. They also do Body scrub and Body wrap.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe, Mostly
They're definitely taking COVID precautions seriously. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Hand sanitizer everywhere, and the staff wear masks. It was reassuring. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. I especially appreciated the Safe dining setup.
Services and Conveniences: The "Good to Know" Stuff
Lots of handy things available. They have a Concierge, Doorman, Elevator, and Facilities for disabled guests. They also have a Currency exchange which is useful. And the Air conditioning in public area is a relief from the heat. There is a Convenience store in the hotel, which is great for snacks and water. Just remember that you can ask for Invoice provided.
For the Kids: Keeping the Little Ones Happy (Maybe)
They're Family/child friendly, with Kids facilities and Babysitting service available.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy (If You're Not Using a Mobility Scooter)
They do have Airport transfer and Taxi service. The Car park [free of charge] is a bonus!
My Emotional Reaction: A Rollercoaster of Feelings
Look, I had a great time. The location is fantastic (if you love the beach!), the pool is amazing, and the staff are generally helpful. However, a few things really irked me. The inconsistent room service was a huge downer. The lack of accessible pathways was frustrating. And, well, the Wi-Fi could definitely be improved. It felt a bit like a gamble. You can't please everyone.
The Deal Breaker: The Unreliable Room Service!
The Bottom Line: Should You Book?
It depends. If you’re prioritizing accessibility, do your research and contact the hotel regarding accessibility. It's a great option if you're looking for a fun, affordable beach vacation with a brilliant pool. I will give Sol Pelicanos Ocas a 3.5/5.
My Unbelievable Pelican Sightings in Spain! (Sol Pelicanos Ocas) Offer: Dive In (But Maybe Pack Some Snacks)!
Here's the deal:
Book your stay at Sol Pelicanos Ocas through this link (or whatever link your marketing team has provided) and receive:
- A complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival (to soothe those pre-dinner hunger pangs).
- Guaranteed early check-in (to help you settle in faster).
- A discount on the "Poolside Paradise" package, which includes sunbed reservations, access to the VIP area, and a daily cocktail (because, you know, cocktails)
- Plus, a handy travel guide highlighting the best accessible routes in the area (to assist those with mobility requirements).
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!
Book now and receive this bonus gift from me:
- My personal list of "lifesaving" snack recommendations – because, let's face it, you'll need it if room service lets you down like it did me.
Click here to book your adventure! Don't just take my word for it. Go see (and maybe, just maybe, spot a pelican or two). And please, if you get those fries, let me know.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Discover Hotel Uttarayan, India
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's perfectly polished travel itinerary. This is… my truth from the sweaty, sun-kissed heart of Sol Pelicanos Ocas, Spain. Get ready for the real deal, folks, because perfection is for the birds. (And honestly, the birds here are probably more relaxed than I am.)
The Unofficial, Highly Opinionated, and Probably-Gonna-Change-Halfway-Through-Itinerary of Sol Pelicanos Ocas (and surrounding chaos)
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Panic.
- 9:00 AM (ish, who's counting?): Arrive at Alicante airport. The sun is already blasting down. I'm instantly regretting wearing those skinny jeans. (Note to self: Pack more flowy things. Like, everything.) The airport is surprisingly orderly, which immediately puts me on edge. Something feels off.
- 9:45 AM: Find the transfer bus. It's a slightly-too-small, slightly-too-hot metal box filled with tourists. I'm convinced I'm going to be sick on the winding road to Benidorm. (Luckily, the bus driver’s driving style is aggressively not causing nausea this time.)
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at Sol Pelicanos Ocas. The lobby is a riot of color and noise. Kids are screaming, grandmas are arguing over who gets the best sun lounger, and I'm pretty sure I saw a parrot wearing a tiny Hawaiian shirt. My kind of place.
- 11:00 AM: Check-in! (Thank God my Spanish is passable… barely.) The room key almost works on the first try. Success! (Cue internal victory dance.) Room? Fine. Balcony? Glorious, overlooking the pool. My plan: Claim this balcony as my personal sanctuary and never leave.
- 11:30 AM: The all-inclusive arm band! The badge of honor! (Or, you know, the thing that screams "Tourista!") Quickly discover the bar situation. Essential research. Beer cold, spirits strong. Happy hour is my religion.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. This is where things get interesting. The buffet. Oh, the buffet. A glorious, chaotic, potentially food-poisoning-inducing buffet. I go for the paella. It's… edible. (That's a win, right?)
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: NAP. Mandatory. The heat is intense, and my body is screaming for sweet, sweet slumber. The balcony plan is temporarily abandoned. Honestly, I think I fell asleep with a straw in my mouth.
- 4:00 PM: The pool. Ah, the pool. The heart of this whole operation. I’m not a "pool person," but I force myself in. Witnessing the sheer joy on a little kid's face as they bravely jump off the side of the pool is the best part. This place is magical. And then I get splashed. Not quite so magical.
- 6:00 PM: The entertainment! Oh, the entertainment. It’s… something. Tonight, it's a magician. He pulls a rabbit out of a hat. (I swear that rabbit looked bored.)
- 7:30 PM: Dinner. Back to the buffet. This time, I’m braver. I try the mystery meat. It tastes mostly of… mystery.
- 8:30 PM: Wander around the bars. Realize I'd be happier with a good cocktail, but the all-inclusive drinks will have to do for now.
- 10:00 PM: Bed. Exhausted, slightly sunburnt, and already plotting my next adventure. And by "adventure," I mean finding the best location for a good sunset viewing.
Day 2: Full Benidorm Immerse
- 8:00 AM: Actual alarm clock. Attempt to see the sunrise. Failed. Back to bed
- 10:00 AM: Breakfast. The buffet strikes again! This time, I’m tackling the fruit station. Mangoes, pineapples, and… some sort of unidentifiable melon. Proceed with caution.
- 11:00 AM: Beach time! Walk to Levante Beach. The place is packed, but the sand is soft, and the waves are gentle. Soak it all in. I even get sand in places I didn't know sand could get.
- 12:30 PM: Beach bar! The food's overpriced and the drinks are weak, but the view is priceless. The sound of the waves is incredibly relaxing, but it's quickly drowned out by the sound of children screaming.
- 1:30 PM: Walk the Esplanade. People-watching is an Olympic sport here. The outfits! The tans! The sheer confidence! It's a masterclass in vacationing.
- 2:30 PM: Get back to the hotel pool, but the sun is fierce, so I go back to my room.
- 4:00 PM: Take a trip to the local shops. Buy a "I love Benidorm" t-shirt. (Don't judge me.)
- 5:00 PM: Poolside. This time I sit in the quieter corner.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a local, not all-inclusive restaurant! I'm craving something that isn't buffet-adjacent. I'm on a mission for authentic tapas.
- 7:30 PM: Tapas Adventure! Found a tiny, family-run place. The tapas were delicious. I try patatas bravas. It's a religious experience.
- 9:00 PM: The strip. The lights, the sounds, the energy! And the people! I'm not sure whether to be overwhelmed or embraced.
- 10:30 PM: Bed.
Day 3: Adventures and a Massive Screw-Up.
- 9:00 AM: Sleeping in! The sun's heat is still brutal, but I'm making the most of my time.
- 10:00 AM: Day trip to Guadalest. Beautiful mountain town. The views are truly stunning, and everything feels a little more… real than the manufactured chaos of Benidorm. I find a quaint cafe.
- 12:30 PM: Hike to the fortress. It's a killer climb, but the panoramic views are worth it. I feel incredibly small in the grand scheme of things.
- 2:00 PM: Paella lunch! This is a good one. A real, authentic, delicious paella.
- 4:00 PM: Return to Sol Pelicanos Ocas. This is where the day takes a turn.
- 5:00 PM: The Great Screw-Up. I can't remember where I left my wallet! PANIC SETS IN! I retrace my steps, frantically interrogating anyone who will listen, and realize it's GONE.
- 6:00 PM: Panic is followed by despair. I have to inform reception. Luckily, the person is nice, and is more than helpful! I'm grateful, but stressed.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Unable to enjoy it at all.
- 8:00 PM: Call home, tell them I've lost it. They tell me, not to worry, I can always be wired some money.
- 9:00 PM: Drink. Need a strong one.
- 10:00 PM: Bed.
Day 4: Recovery
- 9:00 AM: I'm a mess. Can't sleep because of the financial worry!
- 10:00 AM: Breakfast. I eat, but I also can't taste it.
- 11:00 AM: Still worrying over money. I need to call home and sort it.
- 12:00 PM: Get a call: one of the people at the local shop found the wallet! Rejoice!
- 1:00 PM: I get my wallet back!
- 2:00 PM: Sleep in.
- 3:00 PM: Go back to the pool, and celebrate.
- 4:00 PM: Dinner and a celebratory drink.
- 5:00 PM: Bed
Day 5: Departure (or the Attempt Thereof)
- 7:00 AM: Wake up. Sad about leaving.
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. The buffet, one last time. I’m going to miss the chaos.
- 9:00 AM: Pack. I actually managed to buy a few things and get some great photos.
- 10:00 AM: Pool. Last dip.
- 11:00 AM: Check out. Say goodbye to the staff.
- 12:00 PM: Bus to the airport. Sad,
Unbelievable Pelican Sightings at Sol Pelicanos Ocas: The Unfiltered Truth (Bless Their Souls!)
Okay, spill it! Are these pelicans *actually* “unbelievable” or is it all just marketing fluff?
Okay, okay… *deep breath*. Trust me on this, the pelicans at Sol Pelicanos Ocas? They're BELIEVABLE. More believable than that dodgy kebab I had last night, that's for sure. But "unbelievable?" Depends. For me, absolutely YES. You see, I grew up with pigeons, right? Gritty, aggressive city pigeons. These pelicans? They’re basically the fancy penthouse suite version of birdlife. They're HUGE. Like, wingspan-that-could-carry-a-small-child HUGE. And the way they glide... like little feathered, beaked ninjas. Totally unbelievable in the BEST way.
So, where do these feathered celebrities hang out? Is it just the pool?
Oh, the pool? That's their runway! Okay, not *literally*, but you get the picture. Mostly, they're sunbathing in the shallow end, looking smug. *Smug birds*, I tell ya! I once saw one *steal a whole baguette* right out of a woman’s hand! She was like, "¡Ay Dios mío!" and the pelican just waddled off with its prize. Honestly, I was half-impressed, half-horrified. Then I thought, "Dude, I wish *I* had that kind of confidence." They also frequent the beach, obviously, and seem to have a keen interest in the fish restaurants. They're basically living the high life. I'm jealous, is what I'm saying.
Are they dangerous? I mean, those beaks...
Dangerous? Probably not *actively* dangerous, unless you have a sandwich they want. That beak *is* intimidating though, isn't it? I definitely wouldn't want to get pecked by one. I mean, imagine the stories! Mostly, they're just after food. They seem pretty well-fed, but you know, gotta keep that protein intake up, right? I saw one try to swallow a whole small fish, and it looked like it was going to explode because it was so large.
What's the best time of day to see a pelican spectacle? Do they have a schedule?
Schedule? Ha! As if *they* care about a schedule. They're pelicans! They’ll be there when *they* feel like it, which is, well, most of the time. Early mornings are good, when the sun's hitting the water just right. That's when they do their preening and show-off routines. And honestly, anytime is a good time. Honestly, I found them at lunch, it almost ruins the meal, because you're too entertained. I'd recommend always keeping an eye out, and your camera ready.
Do they feel like you're being watched? What is the feeling?
Okay, this is a weird one. Yes. Definitely yes. It's less like being watched and more like being judged. They make you feel like they are looking at you funny. I think they're judging everything. Your swimsuit choice, your sunbathing technique, your choice of cocktail. You could see a look of distain in their eyes, especially if you're trying to eat a french fry near them. It's not malicious, just… pelican-y. They are the OG influencers, basically.
I'm obsessed with the idea of the baguette heist! Do you have any more stories?
Oh, the baguette heist… it was art, people. I was sitting there, minding my own business, reading a trashy novel (don't judge!) when I saw *the* woman. She was a lovely, rosy-cheeked lady, enjoying her lunch. And then, *WHAP!* The pelican, a particularly bold specimen, swooped in like a feathered ninja. The baguette, the entire, glorious baguette, was gone in a flash. The lady was shocked, the other tourists were in shock, and I was cackling. Honestly. This is a moment that will forever be etched in my memory. You know what? I should have brought a baguette for them! Maybe, I should bring a baguette every time.
Are they always pelicans? Or do they have other bird friends?
Great question! I've seen seagulls hanging around, because yeah, seagulls will be seagulls. I'm pretty sure they're eyeing up the buffet scraps. But the pelicans? They tolerate them. They don't always play well with the pigeons, though. It's a bit like a high school cafeteria, to be honest.
Any tips for photographing these majestic creatures? My Instagram needs them!
Forget the fancy settings. Forget the filters (unless you're feeling extra). My best advice? Get LOW. Get down on your knees, maybe even belly crawl if you're committed. Because perspective? They are incredible and imposing when you're looking up at them. You want that "LOOK AT ME, PEASANTS" vibe. Also, patience. These pelicans are not models. And, honestly? Just enjoy the moment. Sometimes, the best photos are the ones you don't take, the ones you just *live*. So, snap a few, and then put the phone away.
In conclusion, are the Sol Pelicanos Ocas pelicans the best thing ever?
Alright, here's the deal. Are they the best thing *ever*? That's subjective. But are they a highlight? Absolutely. Would I go back just to see them? YES. Do they add a certain *je ne sais quoi* to the whole experience? Totally. They are a unique and quirky addition. They're a reminder that sometimes, the unexpected is the most memorable. So, pack your bags, book your flight, and prepare for some bird-watching brilliance, and maybe... just maybe... keep a close eye on that baguette.
