| de sonhar voltar um dia |
| Hotel Catalonia Riviera Maya |
User Rating:
|
|
todinho_20056@hotmail.com >
1 contribution(s) PORTUGAL |
| Aug, 2010 | Leisure | With Group
|
|
| este hotel e de 5 estrelas somos bem tratados sao amigaveis e tem uma ekipa de animacao espetacular com pessoal da pesada pra nos rirmos e divertirmos vale a pena irmos pra este hotel k e de 5 estrelas. |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| ekipa de animacao espetacular paola jimenez 5 estrelas e a ekipa tbm.noite de tekila...futbol,danca,ping pong,byke.....etc nao paramos e nao percam nada com eles k sao demais |
|
| Arrival |
| fomos bem recebidos com um coktail e foram rapidos a acomodarnos pk eramos muitos mesmo e no estante o pessoal desapareceu da recepcao sao muito amaveis com os portugeses venham aeste hotel k e um espetaculo |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| espetaculo de corais e peixes de todas as cores mergulhem com a mascara de mergulho e desfrutem da beleza k eles teem a frente do hotel nao percam esta oportunidade. |
|
| Other Comments |
hei-de voltar a este hotel k vale a pena ir
voces sao 5ESTRELAS
ABRACOS ....SAUDADES |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| comer ate fartar tudo de varios gostos nem sabes onde comecar ou acabar e graca e os passaros k tem a voar la dentro mesmo a moda tropical k ate da gosto de tar ali dentro |
|
| Rooms |
| sempre arrumados frescos e ainda por cima com enfeites k eles deixavam em cima da noxas camas muito bem feitos tudo a maneira |
|
|
|
|
| had the best time |
| Hotel Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa |
| User Rating:
|
|
karen >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
I hear all the bad things about royal elite but in really life. My husband and myself went they in early 2009, after a 6 week trip to jamaica that end witha friend getting hurt. We had a great time and did buy a one bedroom, since then we have had a couple hickups but all has been worked out. We returned to sandos caracol in december and had no problems. no problems booking or with are stay. the have changed thing and are working hard to make it all right. we love the staff and the staff loves us no are money. like we found in jamaica they love your money not you.
cant wait to get back there |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| lots |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| clean and nice |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| fast, good and clean |
|
| Rooms |
| nice clean and cleaned everyday with towel animals on the bed |
|
|
|
|
| A trip to remember |
| Hotel Barcelo Maya Beach |
User Rating:
|
|
Cathi >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
| We arrived later than we wanted to due to airline problems. The first room we had was hot we went to the desk and went to dinner. When we returned to our room the problem was not fixed. They moved us to a temporary room for the night. The next day we were moved to a cool and comfortable room. We went to the pool which is very nice. I got out of the pool to go to the restroom and fell on the slick tile around the bathroom area. I broke my left arm and dislocated my shoulder. I had surgery and spent 2 nights in the hospital. The hotal I believe did not show any compassion, concern or care that I had fallen at their hotel. The manager told my husband they were not responsible because I did not have shoes on. Be very very careful around the pool we saw people fall with and without shoes. |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| many things to do without leaving the hotel |
|
| Arrival |
| 1 hour 25minutes from the Airport!!!! |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Be very very careful There is SLICK tile in some areas!!!! |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| The was very good!! |
|
| Rooms |
| cool and comfortable |
|
|
|
|
| Splendid resort.... |
| Hotel Iberostar Paraiso Beach |
| User Rating:
|
|
Yvan >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
| What a delightfull pleasure to have chosen this resort. We have travelled to many Iberostar resorts, this one being one of the best we stayed at. |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
We went shopping to Playa del Carmen with the shuttle from the plaza of the hotel, 4$ each way for a 20Km trip very reasonable I would say, found the presents we needed on 5th avenue.
We took the visit to the ruins of Tulum, I was impressed with the place, ruins and by the knowledge of the guide we had for our trip. you must remember that it is very hot there, dont forget to bring water. They also gave us about 1hr to enjoy ourselves on the beach at the bottom of the hill.
Since there are no secure place to leave your things, keep an eye open, I noticed many.... people looking for an occasion to pilfer.
All and all a very pleasant and instructive excursion. |
|
| Arrival |
We arrived via Westjet airlines from Toronto, my spouse being somewhat apprehensive about flying, this trip was superb, smooth all the way, nice updated aircraft, exit row seating with tons of leg room, video display in every seat which gave us a choice of various tv or movies to choose from.
We arrived Cancun ahead of schedule, after baggage reception and clearance through customs, we proceeded to the chaos outside the terminal, IMHO, very poor service from Best Day travel as far as arrangement of transportation, we had to wait outside in suffocating heat, for our transport to be ready, even though the bus was in place and air conditioned, they made the group wait until complete before boarding. |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
The beach is very nice, lots of huts and chairs for one and all, a few large rocks near the entrance of the beach, however, the water being so clear, it was easy to navigate around them and never did we have any problem with them. Unfortunately the first two days of our stay, the beach had a red flag waving, the water was quite agitated and not recommended, we still had the choice and I realy enjoyed the large waves/breakers comming to shore. Did not do the pool, as a general rule, since it is secluded and protected from the ocean by vegetation, way too hot for my liking and during the late afternoon much too noisy for us, the animation crew and pool bar were the culprits.
As all the IB resorts we have visited, the grounds were impeccable, an army of groundskeepers were at work everyday it seems everywhere to make the looks of this place so great. |
|
| Other Comments |
I would greatly recommend this resort to anyone that wants a clean, well maintained and pretty quiet place to relax and enjoy a vacation.
I would certainly return in a heartbeat.
We hope everyone enjoy the place as much as we did. |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
We were given 4 restaurant choices, we made the gourmet, japanese, italian and steak. All were excellent, the food always hot and cooked to order, if a complaint was to be made, the Italian restaurant is situated in one of the pool snacks, not air conditioned so a little uncomfortable but nevertheless, the food was very very good.
The Buffet breakfasts were what we are accustomed to having in all the resorts, excellent choices of fruits, pastries and the omelet bar was manned by a lovely lady for our entire week, she made it a pleasure to see her smile every morning.
Suppers at the buffet was always thematic, changed every night and the food was always good, the catch all was always there, if you did not appreciate anything being served, the pasta bar was excellent.
This was our 6th visit to an IB resort, we have never been let down anywhere by the food. |
|
| Rooms |
| We arrived the resort 20 mins later, to the friendly Iberostar reception, well organized, the check in took no more than 5 minutes, since we are many times guests of an Iberostar resort, they even gave us a free upgrade to a junior suite, the staff being polite, friendly and spoke english and french quite well. We even took time to go to the concierge desk to make our restaurant reservations for the week all in less that 15 minutes we were taken by cart to our room, building 31, very near the beach to a wonderfull room with good a/c, clean and well prepared, everything we have been accustomed to by the Iberostar chain. The maid service for the week was of all thing done by a male worker, what a pleasant surprise, superb service, the fridge always stocked full, and room decorations, figurines and flowers galore. My wife was in awe for the entire week. Of course, daily gifts and a couple dollars must surely have helped. Clean, well air conditioned, no bugs. |
|
|
|
|
| dining out in Mazatlan |
| Hotel El Cid Castilla Beach |
| User Rating:
|
|
Gary >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
| Don't carry a tab outside the resort pay as you go, we went to Joe's oyster bar after carrying a tab for drinks for a party of 4 from about 7.30 to 10 15 pm the bill was just under $200 US. We were being charged $15 US for a rum and coke in contrast we payed $20 US at senor frogs for all you can drink from 9.00 to closing and its right next to the El Cid |
|
|
|
|
| Fabulous Family Resort |
| Hotel Iberostar Cozumel |
| User Rating:
|
|
Shannon >
2 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
Our family enjoyed our stay here at Iberostar! We especially enjoyed he staffs friendliness and willing to help. The resort is a beautiful paradise with beautiful flamingos, peacocks & big iguanas!
The swim up bar was a plus with our son as well as his father :)
We enjoyed most of our time in Cozumel at the resort, the daily games, shows and other activities were fun & entertaining!
Thanks for a memorable vacation! |
|
|
|
|
| Wyndham big Mistake |
| Hotel Wyndham Cozumel Resort & Spa (formerly Reef Club) |
| User Rating:
|
|
Shannon >
2 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
We purchased a 'vacation club' in 2003 and traveled to Cozumel almost every year and enjoyed our stay here UNTIL we arrived this year with our son (8 years old) and are told we are limited access to the resort bc the hotel has gone 'ALL ADULT'!!!!! We were NOT notified of these changes and were told 'sorry' upon our arrival & that we could leave our kid in 'kids club' in order to enjoy the 'all adult' area of the resort. Yeah right, who is going to leave their kid in a foreign country with complete strangers for hours on end to enjoy other areas of the resort!!??? We were limited to less that half of the resort and there were big signs posting 'No one Under 18 Beyond this point'...needless to say we caught a cab to find another resort to spend the week!!! We lost our maintenance fees and are currently trying to receive our all inclusive money back...we didn't stay/eat/drink there so it's only fair for a refund, right? Waiting for my apology that has yet to come!!!
It's not Mexico's fault that some owners at a resort are scumbags with no customer service skills!!! We love Cozumel...Wyndham Reef Club not so much! I believe Wyndham has made a big mistake in going All Adult!!!! And we will never stay there again as long as it's all adult! |
|
| Other Comments |
| Wanted to leave a ZERO flower rating but required something which explains my ONE flower rating. |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| Restaurants and Bars in the 'family' area close and you will not have access to drinks or food after dinner time...where the all adult area is open later in the evenings. No late night snacks or drinks by the pool!! |
|
| Your Arrival |
| No customer service skills whatsoever!! |
|
|
|
|
| Great beaches and dive shop and boats on site!!! |
| Hotel Wyndham Cozumel Resort & Spa (formerly Reef Club) |
| User Rating:
|
|
peter >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Solo
|
|
| I went to this resort right after being seperated and went with the purpose of diving and putting my past behind me. It was a great place with a dive shop and dock right on property . The drinks were always cold and the food hot and good. what else could someone ask for while on vacation. Staff were accommadating and the rooms were nice(not amazing ,but not just clean) |
|
|
|
|
| Great place to stay surounding area excelent and the people frendly |
| Hotel Las Brisas Huatulco |
| User Rating:
|
|
dave >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
| No problems with this resort at all lots of walking and stairs but not a problem actualy me and my wife lost weight even though the food was good lots to do in the area and the tours to the remote bays should be experianced we will be going back in 2011. |
|
|
|
|
| Elegant, serene, classy place. plus world class snorkeling right off the beach |
| Hotel Akumal Beach Resort |
| User Rating:
|
|
Carolyn >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
A lush tropical oasis-like having your own private resort. High staff to guest ratio. Quiet, elegant & very classy. But, the best-not pricey! This sleeper dream of a place is in the middle of world class snorkeling in calm lagoon-like Akumal Bay- fantastic colorful coral groupings, loads of fish & huge tortugas.
Superb night snorkeling-bring your light. Food is pure and fresh. Not big on things like cream sauces, but rather the likes of perfect roast prime rib, carved turkey, mexican specialties, fresh grilled fish. Excellent salad bar. No pretension here- just perfection. Can't wait to return! Just loved it. |
|
|
|
|
| Complain |
| Hotel Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort |
| User Rating:
|
|
Mark >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Apr, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
| Just came from Sirenis.Nice resort.Good food and beach,only problem Premium Travelers club.Stay away from this people. |
|
|
|
|
| Beautiful resort, terrible food and bad service |
| Hotel Grand Palladium White Sands Resort & Spa |
| User Rating:
|
|
Jackie >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Apr, 2010 | Leisure | With Group
|
|
We were very unhappy with our stay in April 2010 in the Mayan Suites in White Sands. We had red ants in the room every night and 6 times housekeeping came to fumigate. Only the last time did they clean up the dead ant bodies. Each time we were stuck in the room waiting for them to finish between 1-2 hours, the last night we missed dinner due to this. Each person we tried to talk to advised us they did not understand or speak english. If you are charging the rates you charge and claim to be a 4 or 5* hotel your front staff must speak english. We stayed at the Bahia Principe Akumal in March 2009 and were very impressed by the service and food. Also the pathway to our suite was long and winding quite and every night we walked in the dark which is very unsafe, we complained 5 times and twice they turned the lights on for 1 hour. Each nights the light would go out at 10 or 11 pm, this is unacceptable. The service is terible as far as response etc, and mostly because everyone claims to not understand us. We were with a big group as part of a wedding and all thought it was the worst resort we have been to as far as food and service. When I advised the front manager Fernanda of the terrible food she suggested we all eat at Colonial. Why when we paid more to stay at the White Sands??
On the last night when we were waiting a grand total of 2 hours to have them fumigate the 'large red ants' that seemed to live in our room we finally got to talk to some sort of a superviser who said when we asked for compensation, that he would check the records to see if we actually had problems, (like anyone keeps records there, I asked each time if they were documenting it and they replied no english) and then said talk to someone the next morning at checkout. When we went to talk to the manager she wasn't there and the same superviser advised we have to go online and lodge a complaint and they will review it (yeah right!). Anyway, we are not picky people or picky eaters, it's just bad here. It is a beautiful resort but the worst food/service of 12 I've been to. I wanted to let any potential travellers out there know that so you know what's going on. |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| Cozumel and Playa del Carmen are always a good time, lots to do and see. |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Awesome, clean and beautiful. The tall bridges made it very difficult when the rain was puring...it's the only way to get anywhere. Compared to Gran Bahia Principe Akumal which is also large but simpler transportation, much more difficult to get around by trolley at White Sands as they only run in certain areas. |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| Brazilian was good food and service, the other al a carte's leave much to be desired. Buffet good for breakfast, not so good for the rest of the meals. The Front Desk manager at the White Sands advised we eat at Colonial buffet as "it has better food"?! |
|
| Rooms |
| Spacious, not very clean, red ants and spiders constantly. Not good service as everyone you deal with claims not to speak english, you have to push to get a manager to talk to and they claim everyone speaks english, not so. |
|
| Your Arrival |
| Quick and simple |
|
|
|
|
| Wonderful and relaxing |
| Hotel Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort |
| User Rating:
|
|
Lorraine >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Apr, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
I stayed at the Grand Sirenis for 1 week with my daughter who is 6 and we had such a wonderful time. The pools were amazing and were we spent majority of the time in the pool swimmming and playing. I was able to sit on the side and read a book while she swam and jumped off the waterfalls.
We spent a fair time on the beach and what was nice is that there were lot's of kids making sand castles and collecting shells from the coral that came in from the tide. Snorkling was fantastic and the fish were a sight to behold. Feed them bananas and bread- the schools come ten fold right up to you. They were brilliant colours and shapes. You could be in the water for hours. (if you don't have your own gear rental is available)
Drinks were plentiful and eating at the buffet had variety everyday. Children are well taken care of with all types of food- the coffee was so delicious!!!!
rooms are spacious and the bathrooms very desirable. Our Room was used for sleeping and changing!!
Need to have some down time...go paint pottery- $10-$40US to create a masterpiece that has memories forever-(he will glaze your piece and make it magical-just try it and you will see...!)
I would go back again-no children and only adults and my vacation would be 1000 different!
|
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
We did 2 tours and it rained all day. Do tours that are close and rent a car for advenuture.
We went to Coba to climb a Temple and it was cool and a very neat experience. We also went to Xel Ha and that was nice. PS. there is no coral reefs here-lot's of fish and you cannot swim in a "centote" advise- wear your bathing suite and water shoes all day- PS they may ask you to buy their own sunscreen-$15 US..we chose not to. |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
Clean, fresh and paradise like. Not a complaint. Nice to swim up to the bar for drinks!
Fresh flowers made my day! |
|
| Other Comments |
| Want to and will go back! sold! |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
Yummy great good food. Healthy choices and variety and the best guacomle ever-my plate was always green!
Very kid friendly the buffett and service was fast and very efficient. |
|
| Rooms |
| clean, nice and spacious- would not choose a room by the pool again- no privacy and noisey |
|
| Your Arrival |
| Nice plane ride and landing into Cancun-waiting to go through customs on a Sunday-2 people working and 5 flights that had arrived around the same time-hours waiting..............not soo cool, but we had a nice ride on the bus and to the resort in 90 minutes |
|
|
|
|
| Unforgettable!!! |
| Hotel Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort |
| User Rating:
|
|
Sandra >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2010 | Leisure | With Group
|
|
| This is the second time I stayed at this resort and I will definitely be returning. We departed Ottawa on March 7 for 2 weeks and we all had the time of our lives, I know you can give 5 stars but if it were possible I would give the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya 10 stars for excellence. |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
We didn't do any excursions out of the resort but there were many to choose from.
They also have a beautiful spa and gym. You can take a nice walk there (about 5min) or you can have your concierge call the shuttle for you. The gym is state of the art, we went everyday around 3pm and there was always something available to use. They also provide you with water and towels.
The spa is without a doubt beautiful and the staff is very nice.
The shows in the evening were by far the best entertainment I have seen in Mexico and the animation team is fantastic. Always getting everyone involved.
The Disco at this resort is also very nice. You need to take a shuttle to ge there but it is a 5 minute ride an well worth it! |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
We spent most of our 2 weeks at the beach, however the pools were equally beautiful. The beach can be a little bit rocky but not enough to need shoes although we saw some people wearing shoes.
The pools and the grounds at this resort were imaculate, there wasn't one minute of the day that we didn't see someone cleaning it, very well kept.
There is also a lazy river at this resort, very very fun and a perfect place to get a beautiful tan. They provide you with a floatation device and it takes you through the river very nice touch. |
|
| Other Comments |
I would have to say that the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya excels in every way.
A special THANK YOU to the Managment of the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya you have created a world class resort. We thouroughly enjoyed our vacation and will be returning without a doubt next year. THANK YOU again and see you in 2011.
Adios!
|
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
There are 8 a la carte restaurants to choose from:
Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, French, Japanese, Steak House, Cajun and Brazilian. We manageg to go to all of them because we were there for 2 weeks and they are all VERY VERY GOOD! My favourites would have to be the Steak House and the French restaurants.
The Buffets are equally good. I never had a problem finding something to eat and everything I ate was very good. Excellent!!!!
The staff at the bars are very nice they go out of their way to make everyones experience enjoyable. Look for Gabriel and Joakin these guys know how to mix a drink!!!!
There is also a coffee bar at this resort and you can go for a coffee at any time of the day, very yummy! |
|
| Rooms |
The rooms are spacious, beautiful and very clean, nothing to complain about.
|
|
| Your Arrival |
We arrived in Mexico around 12:30pm and went through customs security very smoothly. We had to wait awhile after we got our luggage to go through security but we were in paradise so we didn't mind. We took a bus to the hotel that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Check-in at the hotel was seamless. The bell boys were very friendly and assited us with our luggage. We were then greeted with a glass of chamapgne and guided to reception to check-in. The reception staff were very accomodating answering our questions and helping us fill out all the necessary paper work. We were then given our bracelets and our rooms keys. We then went back to the bell boys and we were driven to our rooms and our luggage quickly followed.
|
|
|
|
|
| Wonderful Experience |
| Hotel Grand Palladium Royal Suites Yucatan |
| User Rating:
|
|
James >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Mar, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
| We had the most wonderful experience in Mexico imaginable. THe service was excellent as well as the facilities. We had a small complaint and it was handled immediately. We have stayed at the Royal Suites 3 times and each time it seems to get better. So good that we bought 420 nights at the Palladium Travel Club. It's a bit like buying a car with the saleman but all went well. Sice we had been there 3 times, given the cost of these vacations, we should have bought years ago. We look forward to the future stays for us and for our friends and family. |
|
|
|
|
| Perfect resort for someone who loves the beach, great service and great food!!! |
| Hotel Ocean Turquesa & Ocean Coral |
| User Rating:
|
|
Laurie >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Mar, 2010 | Leisure | Family
|
|
| Stayed at this resort March 25th-April 1st. We have stayed at several all-inclusives in many countries(our 4th in Mexico) and it is by far the best yet! The people were all so very nice the resort was very modern, yet had the carribean flare. It was clean the beach was never ending, the food was the best yet. Mike's coffee shop was the great,there was a sport's bar that opened at 10p.m. with great wings, malts, fries, etc. I liked it because it wasn't so big you had to ride a tram or golf cart to get back to your room. Of course a couple of things they could improve on was more chairs at the beach, more help at the bars. It was also spring break one of the busiest times. They had so many comfy places to just sit and relax. Nothing is perfect but as far as I'm concerned this was the closest your going to get!!! |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| Snorkeling is good they offer a couple of parks both are good. Swimming with the dolphins is a good experience. Going into Playa Del Carmen or Cancun to shop and club is fun and very safe. Cocoa Bongo so fun!! |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Pool was great never crowded, beach was nice clean, there is a reef out in front and seaweed washes up early morning, we were up by 6:a.m. each morning to walk, but a tractor takes care of that problem. Grounds were very nice we also walked around the grounds. Another thing it's only about 20" from the airport a huge plus!!!! We are going back in Nov. and will probably stay here again we liked it so much!! You will always read negative reviews, but you are never going to please everyone especially with today's spoiled population!!! |
|
| Other Comments |
| I always have people say to me you shouldn't go to Mexico it's dangerous, with everything going on. To be honest if you aren't looking for drugs and are responsible and pleasant it's the best experience. Iv'e had more close calls in New York City at night and during the day just being at the wrong place at the wrong time yes very scarey never ever in Mexico. I love the people in Mexico!!!!!! My daughter has been going there since she's been 4 she is now 18 and traveled near and far, she loves it. One more thing very important learn a few spanish words they realy love to hear us speak there language.:) That's about it. Good luck and have fun. |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| Realy liked the restaurants, the steak and seafood the steaks where top of the line. We haven't experienced that in the past in Mexico. the sea bass was also very very good. Food was fresh and good everywhere we went. We were just there in Oct. and stayed at the Iberostar the food wasn't that good there, it was a much bigger resort and I think that the quality goes down at that point. |
|
| Rooms |
| Very modern and spacious with a your own deck. Be prepared most of the rooms in Mexico are a bit musty smelling because of the humidity, small price to pay for the great weather. The refrigerators didn't get cold a minus we only drank the bottled water, the drinks at the bars were way better!!! |
|
| Your Arrival |
| Cooler cups keep your drinks colder. I always bring my own towel I don't like to be responsible for there towels which they charge 35.00 if you loose them and they are all the same color. Dollar bills, it says all tips included, but we love to give to the people they realy appreciate it!!!! And work very hard to please everyone!!!! |
|
|
|
|
| we LOVED the Grand Sirenis |
| Hotel Grand Sirenis Mayan Beach |
| User Rating:
|
|
Melanie >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
|
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| We did quite a lot while on our vacation - Xel-Ha, we booked online though their website before we left and paid $71US/person. We also went to Tulum for ½ day (entrance at Tulum was $5US/person if I remember correctly.) We went to Playa Del Carmen to shop and have dinner. Our AT rep recommended the restaurant Ajua, on 4th between 5th & 10th and we had one of the best meals there!! There was a live band playing, and they made our entire meal tableside with made to order Caesar salad, flambéed chicken & snapper. From there we went over to the Blue Parrot beach club and caught the fire show/drinks/dancing. We enjoyed PDC so much that we took a second trip there the next day. Everywhere we went, we took the collectivos and the most we paid was to go into PDC and even then I think it was only $3US/person. Of course the night we were out a bit late, we took a taxi back to the resort and it was only $20US. On a side note, we heard that Wal-Mart was the place to go for cheaper booze purchases but really I found the duty free in the Mexico airport quite reasonable as well. |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| I previously read in many reviews that there were many beach palapas/chairs available at this resort, and I’m afraid that was not my experience. Both at the beach and at the pool if you were not out first thing in the a.m. all of the chairs were gone. People definitely were reserving them with the GS towels and some were left for hours at a time. This may be as a result that the hotel was at full capacity when we were there, (and we were always up early) but the few times that we wanted to go to the beach in the afternoon we just never bothered because it was too much of a hassle getting chairs altogether. When we were at the beach, even though crowded, again the service was great! We really liked the ‘design’ of the beach I thought it was very aesthetic, but not the type of sprawling white sand that you can walk for miles though - just VERY picturesque. Pools were great too, very large and refreshing, not cold, but not warm. |
|
| Other Comments |
| Overall and by far, the very best service I have received on any a.i. vacation – on & off the resort. From the staff in the restaurant to the activities staff to the bartenders to the grounds keepers...all very efficient, and extremely friendly. You didn’t pass one that didn’t have a smile and a ‘hola’ for you, and they always asked you if they could “do anything to make your stay more enjoyable” and I believed it. |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| All I can say is that if anyone has a problem with the food at this hotel, I’d love to know where you have travelled before because the buffets were well stocked and I couldn’t imagine someone not finding something they could eat. We always tried to sit in either Alejandro, or Miguel’s section (on the Mayan Beach side) because right from the first day we were talking with them and they always wanted to know where we had been/what we had done/if we like our trip, and so on. They really went out of their way to greet us at every meal and it was nice to see them. I also noted quite often that the temperature of the food on the buffet was being monitored and taken on a very regular basis – which btw, I don’t think I’ve ever seen previously at a resort so it’s good to know that they are taking these measures. For a la cartes, we ate at the Japanese where Victor served up the most amazing fried rice, and yes the fried ice cream is good too. We also ate at the Mexican restaurant where Benjamin was our server. At the end of the meal he came around with some tequila poppers (shots) for us and put sombreros on us while we drank them, hilariously pics from that dinner!! Lastly we ate at the Brazilian, where Angel served up the most amazing meat EVER. Yes, like everyone says this restaurant is a lot of meat. They bring around 7 different skewers of meat, white & red sausage, chicken, pork, beef tenderloin, beef ribs, and NY steak. We weren’t too fond of the beef, but surprisingly were HUGE fans of the sausage, and the pork was to die for. At the end of the meal they even grilled whole pineapple brushed with some sort of cinnamon/sugar concoction that I’m dying to try myself on our BBQ this summer. My mom & husband thought the Japanese was their fav (I think just because of the novelty) but I feel the food at the Brazilian was WAY better – YUM – just pace yourself through the skewers – that’s the key |
|
| Rooms |
| One week prior to departure I emailed the resort as suggested and requested by priority, building 27, ocean view, 3rd floor – we received building 23, garden view, and 1st floor. So pretty much the complete opposite of everything we were hoping for. We were asked to stay in the room for the night and if we weren’t happy we could try to move the next day, and so on but with the resort at capacity there wasn’t much of a chance. Of course we didn’t bother doing this, but much regretted it as the days went on for 2 reasons: 1) it is the furthest building from the lobby (and pretty much everything) so we had quite the hike to breakfast every morning, and 2) our room was located right at the end of the path that led to the disco so we had to deal with obnoxious, drunkies walking by our room each night. My mother has some minor mobility issues and the shuttle was not available to hop on/off as mentioned. Every time we tried to flag it down they would not stop – the concierge suggested that we call ahead to arrange pick up but even when we did they asked why we needed it, blah, blah, blah...it was too much of a hassle so instead mom took her meds & we walked ; ) which in the end, likely saved us 5lbs of extra weight so really it all worked out for the best |
|
| Your Arrival |
| We were late departing because the airport traffic was heavier than usual in Cancun (said the pilot). Upon arrival that was evident as the customs line up at the Cancun airport was RIDICULOUSLY long – I’ve travelled a bit so I expected this, but this by far was the worst airport experience. Bus was easily located outside of airport (and thankfully still waiting) and beer/water was available for purchase ($3/beer if I remember correctly.) There was no washroom on board so we did not partake. |
|
|
|
|
| Fabulous Wedding ! |
| Hotel Barcelo Maya Beach |
| User Rating:
|
|
Louise >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2010 | Leisure | With Group
|
|
We were 22 people at the Barcelo Maya Beach from March 6 to March 13 2010.
We got married on the beach on March 11.
Resort: The rooms are spacious; they are nice and very clean.
They always fill up the fridge with beer, water and pop.
The beach: Best beach of the 5 resorts, it was well groomed and the water was warm and blue.
Food:
The buffets were average. The lunch buffet was excellent but at dinner it was bland and everything tasted the same.
The restaurants:
The Mexican was very good and we paid extra to go to the Palace, La Brasserie and it worth every penny.
It was delicious. We were told by some friends that the Steak house and Spanish was also very good.
The Wedding:
The Wedding coordinator Xhail & Karen were fantastic, everything was perfect. They were professional and really make sure that this day was a special day. We took a package (mint), it was very affordable and we had a private dinner reception where there was 7 servers taking care of us (for 22 guests), we were spoiled. There was a nice bar, we had brought our own music and they provide us a music system, it was fun. The food was excellent and the cake also.
Thank you very much to Xhail, Karen and Roberto at the reception.
Overall, we would recommend strongly this resort to get married and to spend a wonderful time on the beach.
Louise & Derek |
|
|
|
|
| Nice room on 3rd floor overlooking swim ups |
| Hotel Grand Sunset Princess |
| User Rating:
|
|
village >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Dec, 2009 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
Flew on sunwing and enjoyed both flights and service. trip to resort on nice bus took about an hour. Check in was smooth but after arriving at 1.pm rooms not available till 3. Lunch and drinks at buffet put in the time nicely. Bellmen looked after bags and delivered in no time
Rooms:
Nice room on 3rd floor overlooking swim ups.Partial view of the ocean and deep balcony to sit and have a drink. Maids were great and mini bar stock daily.
Restaurants and Bars:
Buffets were nice with a decent assortment of hot and cold items. we found service pleasant and staff very friendly. we tipped and this seemed genuinley appreciated. the theme restaurants were good esp the italian and international.
Beach/Pools/Grounds:
we used the beach to go for long walks. swimming was a little rough and the bottom had some stones. we didn't try snorkeling here at beach as the visibility was not great
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
went snorkeling for half day through sunwing reps and this was great. edwardo and his crew were entertaining and informative for a boat load of beginners. you see some amazing thigs in the ocean
Other Comments:
lots of walking at resort so take a pair of comfortable shoes to get to and from meals very beaitiful resort and friendly staff. we have been a smaller resorts so a big one was interesting to try. overall we enjoyed our trip and would go with sunwing again
|
|
|
|
|
| "As Advertised!" great snorkelling! |
| Hotel Akumal Beach Resort |
| User Rating:
|
|
eeeefarm >
5 contribution(s) Canada |
| Nov, 2009 | Leisure | With friend
|
|
Akumal Beach Resort
eeeefarm November 30/09 |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
Most of this vacation was spent in the water, snorkelling. We didn't bother with any other activities except for a couple of shopping excursions locally.
A couple of nights local artists came and entertained by painting as we watched. Very interesting, and nice to be able to purchase art one has seen produced. |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Never used the pool, but it looked nice and was cleaned every morning. The beach was wonderful soft white sand. If you walked into town (5 minutes) it was great. Walking the other direction the sand became coarse and going around the point there were rocks and other debris. Despite this, we wandered a couple of bays over to the nearest other resorts. After having a look we agreed that we preferred the ABR.
The grounds were well maintained and pleasant to walk through.....the resort is built right along the beach, and does not extend back far from it as some do. You are never more than a short walk to the water. |
|
| Other Comments |
| I was very satisfied with my vacation. I went for the snorkelling and was not disappointed. The resort staff were wonderful, as good as any I have encountered on my many trips to Cuba. The resort itself needs some refurbishing, which it will likely get since the management has now reverted to the owners and they are committed to bringing it back to its former glory. A few years of indifferent management have cause some problems, but the location can't be beat and I would return even if conditions remained the same. Most problems are cosmetic.....and did not affect my enjoyment. |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| The buffet restaurant was literally right on the beach, and it was very enjoyable to sit next to the window and have a wonderful view while you were eating. Food was fine, but coffee in the buffet was abysmal. However, it was easy to pick up a cup at the bar (excellent coffee!) and bring it into the restaurant with you. Food selection and quality were fine for me. The "lobby bar" or however you want to designate it was right next to the buffet and service was very good. I don't do mixed drinks much, so can't comment on that.
A La Carte alternated between Italian and Mexican. We found them both excellent.....and the staff were absolutely first rate.
The snack bar was handy to the beach and had pizza, burgers, etc. The beach bar had self serve cerveza, but the bartender would serve you when he was there.
The "swing bar" a little further along the beach was also handy and fun. |
|
| Rooms |
| I was in room 402, in the old section. My friends had a room on the top (3rd) floor of building 6, one of the "new" buildings, so we were able to compare. My room was relatively small, basic, and quite adequate for my needs. So close to the beach I could throw a rock and hit it. The air conditioner was a bit loud and the room could use updating, but it was otherwise fine. There were screens on the patio door, so it was possible to turn the A/C off an listen to the surf at night.....very enjoyable. The mattress was a bit hard for my liking, but that is my only complaint. The location was also great.....very close to everything, and yet quiet.
My friends had a slightly bigger room with a wonderful view. They did have some issues with a lack of hot water on occasion. Other than that, no complaints. |
|
| Your Arrival |
| Travelled with Sunwing. Good flight, got a red light at customs (they hand check your luggage) but otherwise uneventful arrival. Quick transfer to resort via minibus. Only a few of us to check in, so it went very quickly. As it was evening I didn't see much of the resort until morning. |
|
|
|
|
| Excellent value and top notch service |
| Hotel Ocean Turquesa & Ocean Coral |
| User Rating:
|
|
Prince George from BC >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Nov, 2009 | Leisure | Solo
|
|
Arrival:
Our arrival was very smooth and we were welcomed with a smile. As we came to see, everyone at this hotel has a friendly hola with a smile. Everyday!
Rooms:
The rooms are furnished nicely. Bed is OK. Service from chambermaids was excellent. It would be nice to get rid of the slight musty smell.
Restaurants and Bars:
Bars were always stocked well and service was great. Smiles all the way around.
The food in the buffet was good but fairly bland for me. This is an area where they could kick it up a notch with more flavourful food . The three themed restaurants, Mexican, Italian & Japanese were good. Service was excellent.
Beach/Pools/Grounds:
The beach was fantastic. Always well groomed, lots of beach chairs & palapas and the beach bar service was always welcome. Pools were clean and always had some sort of activity going on. The grounds were impeccably maintained.
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
I took my PADI Open water course with the hotel dive centre. Alvaro Gonzales was the Dive Master and was awesome. Excellent guy who made me feel very comfortable and safe. Thanks! We toured the countryside in a rented vehicle from Dollar rental car inside the hotel. Very reasonable and easy to deal with. We also used Traffic Tours (Hugo, excellent!) from inside the hotel and went to Excaret. This was a fantastic trip. Go for as long as you can because the day slips away from you very fast there. One of the best Theatre productions I have seen.
Other Comments:
Can't wait to go back. Excellent value and top notch service.
|
|
|
|
|
| Great vacation |
| Hotel Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe |
| User Rating:
|
|
Rod >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Nov, 2009 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
| I loved this place - we got upgraded to the palace and enjoyed everything about it. The food was great, the snorkelling with sea turtles was fun and the adult bar and bartender made one rainy day the best day at the beach. The only thing I can say that was not the best was that our room was the furthest away from everything and it was a walk to get to the main area. But It was great in the sense that we can take the trolley to any other locations! Great place and is what you expect from an all inclusive!!! |
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| Go to Chichenitza! It is a wonder of the world! |
|
| Arrival |
| Easy as pie - we took a privte USA trashfer and they were amazing. check in was easy and fast. |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Pool was great and always found a seat, beach was also great and not over crowded. Sea turtles are friendly and right at the beach. Often they swam around the swimmers without them knowing they were there. |
|
| Other Comments |
| We got 2 extra days there due to a hurricane in the gulf - no problems no worries - we were taken care of and got two more sunny days!!! |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| The adult pool bar was the best! Rainly day becasme the beast day. The resturants were good - but I really loved the grill and buffet! |
|
| Rooms |
| Very very nice - the junior suits were amazing and it was large clean and the bar was stocked daily with what I requested. I tried to tip for the whole week but they dont have the same staff look after the rooms. |
|
|
|
|
| Spoiled for Life |
| Hotel Secrets Maroma Beach |
| User Rating:
|
|
Leslie >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Sep, 2009 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
|
|
| My husband and I have been to Secrets Maroma Beach twice. The first time the resort was not finished. Unhappy you ask? Yes a little. However, on our second visit all the bells and whistles were finally finished and boy was it worth it!
|
|
| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| Activities! Well you could never get bored. There is tequila tasting, wine tasting, salsa making, volleyball, water polo, kayaking, snorkeling, game room, etc. If you want to pay a little money there is excursions that can be booked and when you arrive they will let you know where and when to book. You can go shopping in Playa del Carmen, although you can grab a cab and do it yourself and its cheaper! You can go to Xel-ha, which is a ecological tourist trap...but I have to say it is fun! Worth the money? Nah but still fun! Tulum is awesome..I would say its a must if for nothing else but the view of the beach and the swimming. There are booze cruises and bar hopping tours. Trust me there is a ton to do on and off the resort. If you do nothing else check out playa del carmen..no matter how you get there! |
|
| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
What would a mexican getaway be without beaches and pools. If you don't know Secrets Maroma is situated on one of the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world. I for one believe every word of that! The sand is soft and white and the water is so so blue! Nothing is better than getting a kayak and paddling out first thing in the morning! By the way the Kayaks are included and they can be found on the beach under a tiki hut. The beach is calming and soothing to one's soul. Magical!
As for the pools. I loved the pools. Sometimes the beach gets really hot so being able to hop into the pool is a great feeling. There are two pools. There is an infinity pool and the regular pool. The only complaint I have about that is that the pools are divided by a walkway and I would have preferred to have a bridge or something you could swim under to get to it. Other than that they were awesome! However, during the day at certain times they play pool polo and volleyball. if you don't want to get hit by a ball or don't feel like being pestered about playing I would stay away from that area during that time. |
|
| Other Comments |
| Amazing trip and I intend to take a third!!! OlaH!!!!!! |
|
| Restaurants and Bars |
| Ahhh my favorite part..eating and drinking! The swim up bar..seriously how can that be bad? A lot of my afternoon was spent drinking margaritas at the swim up bar! All of the restaurants are good. Some are better than others of course. My favorite was the italian and french restaurants, Bordeaux and portofino! The fiesta night is good too its all authentic mexican food and a pretty much a big party. The international cafe', I believe its called, has different themes on differents nights. You will be left the " Sundial " each night for turndown. The "Sundial" is a piece of paper that will tell you what resturants are open each night, the drink of the day, and what activites are going on and at what times. Check that little piece of paper otherwise you probably wont know what is going on at the international cafe' ... and it is definatly not something to miss!! All the meals I had there were great! If you are a sushi fan the Asian restaurant is GREAT! The best I've ever had! As for the lobby bar, the drinks were good and it was very relaxing! |
|
| Rooms |
| The room! Whats not to like? It was very modern and old school charming as well. The bed is HUGE and so comfortable. The shower in the bathroom area is small but very conveinent for us ladies who need to shave our legs before going out to beach, due to its bench seating! The vanity is huge and perfect for applying makeup before dinner! The mini bar has everything you could ever want, beer, soda, and juice. All of which you are able to have. Whatever you use they replace the next day. Plus, if you don't want a certain item just leave a note and they will replace it with what you want. For example, we don't drink Diet Coke so we asked them to only bring regular and they did! We had a Garden view room. We had a swim up room. A swim up room means that you have a private, well semi private pool outside your room. That was a great feature especially first thing in the morning before getting breakfast. You can just hop in the minute you get up..its very refreshing. However, although your little cove is private you are sharing the stretch of the pool with the other people who have the same types of rooms. All in all the rooms are the best!!! |
|
| Your Arrival |
| Upon our second arrival we were greeted by the same bellman we had been greeted by before and get this he recognized us! Although, we had been there twice in one year. We were also greeted by a wonderful cocktail and nice cool towels...ahhh home, at least for the next 7 days. The bellman whisked away our luggage and then we were escorted to our room! |
|
|
|
|
|
| 
