July 31, 2010
luxury and attention during storm of the decade
Despite the unseasonable rainstorms in February 2010, the facilities and staff provided a relaxing and enjoyable experience. We went seeking a couples break from winter weather, but only had 1 1/2 days of sun on our five night trip. We can only imagine how great it would be if we had typical weather...
Positives: The room was spacious and well-appointed. The outdoor whirlpool facing the mountains, with a peek-a-boo view of the water, was ideal for private relaxation. As fans of All-Inclusives, they are doing it right, with no wrist bands, no limit on the ala carte dinners. Taking our menu cues from Trip Advisor reviews, I feel we hit the highlights of each dinner specialty restaurant. Indeed, when I jokingly couldn't decide on a dessert, all the selections were brought to the table. Mexican Coffee wasn't just a cup of delicious flavor, but a production performed with lights dimmed and ignited beverage flowing down a cascade of glassware at tableside. The activities schedule was understandably in dynamic flux due to the storm and damage (which was immediately cleared). The bicycle tour, with stops at Dolphin viewing and the tiny zoo, was much more extensive over two hours than comparable outtings from nearby resorts we had taken previously. The evening entertainment is performed by professionals, rather than by the activities staff, providing exciting fire dancing and worthwhile shows. With a small capacity at the resort, all the activities and shows (gym, dance classes, fruit carving, massage lessons, tequila tasting etc) are intimate and accessible.
Negatives: Very lax enforcement of the 'adults only' use of outdoor whirlpool, which was repeatedly taken over by toddlers with floaties, despite requests to staff. Booked tour for whale watching boat ride through vendor at the property, then waited for one hour after start time at the pier, and rode with others who paid half as much through other ticket sales. The guests who forget to pack consideration for others, and spend 1/2 hour banging on doors and yelling at their friends after they close down the last bar.
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