Fantasy Island: Fantasy Island Beach & Dive Resort

Dates: Feb 16 - Mar 1 2015 The Positives: - Spacious room, comfortable bed, large safe, good sized closet and bureau - location was great, for an quiet, beach/dive vacation. Nice water access, and the natural reef kept the surf away. We didn't do any snorkeling, but others we met did, and said it was good. and I saw some great pics from those folks. - Diving is the real reason to go to Fantasy Island. Onsite dive shop was top notch; friendly, spacious boats, qualified staff. We loved the all  [... read more]inclusive dive option, as that gave us the flexibility to dive when we wanted, without any fuss (just be on time for the boat departure, and you're in ) - tasty food, but as others mentioned, fewer choices than what you'd see at a 5 Star resort. Since this isn't a 5 Star, we were not disappointed. We were well fed. - smaller resort, means fewer guests, which is a bonus for us. The ability to catch up with the same folks over the two weeks we were there meant we made some new friends, and had lots of laughs. It also means there was never a shortage of chairs on the beach, and we were always able to finds sun/shade depending on our desires; even on the days some cruise guests came to enjoy the beach/snorkelling. - Friendly serving staff, and front desk was efficient. The grounds crew worked like mad men, to keep the beach clean and raked. With several days of very significant sargassum deposits blowing it, that was no small feat! sargassum Room for improvement/other things to note: - I never have 'tummy' troubles when on vacation, but on this trip I had some. Nothing that held me down long, but my partner did on a couple of days, and others we spoke to also had some days of discomfort. I narrowed my trouble down to the salad bar. My guess is it was the creamy salad dressings, rather than the veggies. Although it's hard to say. We are not big drinkers, as we dove most days, so it wasn't alcohol related, to be sure. We heard that there had been a considerable amount of staff turnover at this resort in the recent weeks, so I speculate it's a lack of training on safe food-handling somewhere in the kitchen staff. - If you are sensitive to bug bites, be sure to bring bug spray for the sand fleas on the beach, and something for the itch (antihistamine) , because you will likely get bitten some. Mosquitos don't bother me much (hey, I'm a Manitoban!) but the sand fleas did catch me. - There is little entertainment in the evening, so you need to make your own fun (see small resort above) There were a few bonfires in the early evening, and some cultural dancing, plus recorded music or Karaoke in the snack bar most evenings for those who are inclined. Not our thing, so can't comment much. - Although the locals from the Island all pretty much speak English (this is a former British colony, after all), many of the hotel staff come from the mainland, where English is not as widely spoken. Expect some occasions when having some Spanish will facilitate your communication with staff. Everyone works very hard to be pleasant, and fulfill your wishes, so this isn't really a problem, but is just something to know. Overall, we had read the reviews before we booked, and as usual tossed out the really bad, and had a good idea what sort of property we had booked. We were not disappointed, at all. I loved the 'cottagey' feel of the place,with the wood floors on the open air verandah, and the white painted railings. There is sea view from pretty much anywhere you park yourself, and cool breezes. If you book this resort expecting a 3 star, low-key, quiet place, you will not be disappointed.

Anthony Key Resort: great for divers

This is a place for divers and snorkellers. With that in mind, it is a great choice. The diving operation runs well and the sites are reasonably well preserved, with lots of coral and fish. The shark dive costs extra, but it is totally worth it. The hotel itself is OK, food is very good and the staff is unbelievably friendly and accommodating. This was our second time at AKR, and we'll probably be there again next year.

Media Luna Resort: Great snorkelling!

We arrived at Media Luna with high exceptations for our two week vacation. Overall, we were pleased with our visit. The highlights were the excellent snorkelling, beautiful landscape, wonderful and delightful staff. We did need to realign our exceptions regarding the food but the dining room is stunning and the food did improve throughout the time. Although the resort isn't very old, there seems to be a lot of maintenance needed as the humid jungle climate takes its toll on buildings featuring a [... read more] lot of wood. The cabanas are a lovely concept, but needed upgrading. For example, no exhaust fans in bathrooms which hold the dampness. Walkin showers look great but water splashes and runs over all the floor. Sink fixtures are corroded,cracks in sinks, no towel racks. Repairs and upkeep would vastly improve an otherwise great space. I can't say enough about the staff......overall very personable, helpful and wanting to please. They do not expect tips but are very grateful, and believe me, they need them. If you make an effort to remember their names, they will return the courtesy and always respectful. The animation team is sweet, talented and genuinely lovely young people working hard all day to make sure you are enjoying your stay. JC, the Air Transat rep is the most devoted, caring and special rep I have encountered on my travels. He went above and beyond to problem solve, research and make things happen. The Air Transat is extremely lucky to have him representing them. As the resort is not very big, it provides a great venue for meeting fellow travellers. We chatted to people from Brazil,Italy, Central America and Canada. Remember to bring deet products and diligently apply every day.....you are on the edge of a jungle and the insects are ever present .

Media Luna Resort: Enjoyable

The young staff were amazing, most engaging, genuine and personable. Housekeeping exceptional and enjoyed added touches each day ex towel animals... Asked for extra blanket and delivered to room within 30 mins.

Henry Morgan Resort: Hidden Gem in Paradise

Henry Morgan was everything that we were expecting and more.This resort is smaller than we have stayed at in previous locations.We went to Roatan looking to get away from the Industrial,Commercialized resorts,we found it here really simple and rustic charm.The rooms are comfortable and clean,the food offers something for everyone.The staff are excellent,they work very hard in every aspect.The beach is awesome,snorkeling and diving Paradise.The ocean is crystal clear and calm,great for swimming.Y [... read more]ou can walk the beach all the way into town for shopping,or take a water taxi instead.We will be returning to the Henry Morgan in the future,Its our hidden gem in Paradise.

Media Luna Resort: Beautiful Jungle and Seaside Resort

The grounds of this resort were well kept. We loved that we had our own cabana so no one was right on top of us. The peace and quiet of the resort made it a very relaxing vacation. All of the staff were excellent at their jobs. I would recommend this resort if you are looking for a relaxing and quiet vacation. Not somewhere to go if you are looking to party or have the nightlife.

Fantasy Island: Good resort,appears to be trying to improve.

Grounds are spotless,someone is raking nonstop.No shortage of lounges,towels.Only time beech looked busy when cruise ships dock.Very quiet,no sellers bothering anyone.Exellent snorkelling or scuba diving paradise.

Mayan Princess Beach Resort: Loved It!!

Great value, had a great beach front 2 bedroom - nice quiet intimate hotel - the a la carte restaurants were wonderful with attentive service. Buffet always had some healthy choices. Service all in all was good , sometimes on "island time" My only complaint is that they didn't serve wine before 5 pm, but on the other hand the beer was cold plentiful and in bottles! Not the cheap draught u usually get. Also mixed drinks were great, top quality bar rail - like tanqueray gin. Would definitely retur [... read more]n, travelled with a group of 6 ages 3 to 83- everyone was happy !!

Media Luna Resort: Quiet, relaxing resort

This resort has lovely private cabins with nice decks attached. They unfortunately did not provide coffee or drinks in the room ,so you had to wait until 7:00 am to get coffee and bring it back to the room. The mini fridge only had water bottles, no other drink selections. The bed was very hard and uncomfortable. Meals are at select times with limited food between meals forcing you to wear a watch so not to miss the meals. Wine was only available at the meals and they never came with the wine bo [... read more]ttle, instead replacing your glass each time, causing a shortage of glasses.With respect to purchasing the all inclusive package you are restricted on your drink selection which was very disappointing . The resort is advertised as close to the airport but in reality it is an hour away due to the condition of the roads. We had to contend with a lot of jellyfish stings due to the prevailing winds, so bring cortisone cream with you.the snorkelling is great especially by the dive shop. The people of Roatan are the friendliest people I have ever met.if you love to dive and or snorkel, this is the place for you. There is little else to do on the island. There is no duty free at the airport, but it looks like it is currently under construction and may be available in the next few years.

Henry Morgan Resort: Good resort, amazing beach

This hotel is rustic, if you want a 5 star go elsewhere... I loved this resort because it was a nice change from stuffy same ole same ole hotel rooms. Our room was always kept very clean and we had no problems with anything. The food on the resort was much better than I expected and being the picky eater I am I never had a problem finding something I liked. The only thing I would like to see changed at this resort is better wifi throughout the resort not just in the lobby and I think rye, bailey [... read more]s etc should be included along with their regular rum drinks. Staff are very friendly and work really hard. Beach is the nicest I have even been too.

Infinity Bay Spa and Beach Resort: Nice Resort!

Hotel was very nice. Food is good, not a lot of selection but what there is , was good. No entertainment after 10, so very quiet after that. The people working at resort were fantastic. Swiss chocolate at beach bar was best bartender, always happy!

Henry Morgan Resort: Good value resort

The Henry Morgan was very clean and in good repair. The staff is quite friendly and multilingual. The food is of good quality. It gets a little repetitive after 8 days. The only thing that needs some improvement would be the towels, they are VERY thin.

Infinity Bay Spa and Beach Resort: 18 of us out of the cold

All inclusive with a twist - as this is an owner/renter style, with all inclusive as a secondary business. Much quieter than your traditional AI, which makes it appealing if you want a quieter holiday. The beds were probably the most comfortable I have ever experienced. It was exceptionally clean, friendly and the food was very tasty. Not your traditional buffet, as there were only a couple of meat and vegetable choices, but it was all excellent - nothing wasn't sitting around very long. No line [... read more] ups for almost anything and the place is very safe. Scuba and snorkelling was a hit with everyone in our group. Almost everyone is completely fluent in English and the staff all appear to enjoy working at this resort, as they are always smiling and greeting you. I would highly recommend this destination especially if you are after a quieter than normal getaway.

Media Luna Resort: Second year in a row at this resort!

Had a great time! My husband loves to ride and I run the crazy elevations in Roatan. The gym could use some help at this resort but otherwise we always enjoy our stay. It is a quiet, small, and relaxing getaway. Best kept secret in travelling! You cannot beat the snorkeling and diving options as well.

Henry Morgan Resort: Nice resort

Hotel a little old rooms always cleaned buffet there was always lots to chose from . Beach is one of the best on west bay boys always keep beach clean There is a beach bar and snack food bar . There were always plenty of beach chairs

Fantasy Island: No disappointments-

Just got back from Fantasy island on Feb 4/15. Beautiful location, quick check-in, and room was spacious and clean. Stayed in room 222 which had an amazing view and was in reasonable condition, save the shower and bathroom door...they needed work but passable. No worries about salt water showers, actually was very nice on the skin and really liked it. Was short on hot water a few times but just avoid the busy rush after the beach or at 8 ish am. but no big deal really. Staff at the hotel were av [... read more]erage and a few were great like friendly Frank. He always smiled and was helpful behind the bar or as a server...$$ tips didn't seem to encourage the rest however lol. FOOD was always good however not a ton of choice ...but there was always something tasty for everyone (no bacon for you lovers...ever). Beach was really nice, clean and clear water on the main beach. Snorkeling was amazing and lots of water life to enjoy right from the beach, or just jump on a boat going out for a better experience in the reef for a few bucks in tip money. Bottom line...'to avoid disappointment... lower your expectations' and then this is a good choice especially for the $$ if you dive or snorkel. It is 28 years old now, and bit tired and aging, which is a shame. I can only imagine what it would have been like when it was younger. Would have been the most private and wonderful place and BTW the beach/views remains it's strong points. If you want relaxation, privacy, this resort is a good economical choice (3 star) Must do: Would be to go to Gio's restaurant for the seafood feast for $40 an head. It is in Flowers Bay which will cost about 15 bucks ahead for a cabby who will tour you to the West beach area for shopping or a few drinks then to eat while they wait for you an take you to enjoy. Meal consisted of two lobster tails, grilled tiger shrimp and a King Crab with it beautiful long legs and giant claws. Must

Fantasy Island: good place to go

We were there with our 2 boy's their wives and 5 grand kids. It was awesome. The staff, food and accommodations were great. We had a slight problem with our air conditioner which was unable to be fixed and since the resort was full we had to stay in that room , but it wasn't the end of the world. The staff were great and really helpful in all ways . They even made a birthday cake for one of our grandkid's birthday. It's a diving resort with awesome snorkeling. Food was great .Monkeys on site and [... read more] fun' and mischeifious. We would go back again

Mayan Princess Beach Resort: Great place to stay!

Our group of six, ranging from 3 to 83 years, all female members of our family, have just spent a week on Roatan, staying at the Mayan Princess Beach Resort. For half of us it was the 1st time on Roatan, for the 2nd half it was our 3rd visit on the island, but for all it was our first stay at this hotel. We have nothing but praise. The Staff, all of them, very efficient and very friendly. Food excellent, and available throughout the day. Drinks generous and continually offered. Rooms amazing - a [... read more]ttractive, spacious, clean, with comfortable beds. Some of us shared a beach accommodation and it was absolutely perfect. There even was a separate smaller swimming pool in the courtyard behind our bungalow where one could have a dip before breakfast. It was a perfect vacation for all of us. We certainly plan to return to the Mayan Princess Beach Resort soon!

Fantasy Island: Great place for animal lovers or light sleepers

Fantasy Island is a basic hotel, old but functional. Great place for animal lovers. The grounds are home to peacocks, ducks, iguanas, "rabbits", parrots and capuchins. It's a very quiet secluded location, good for sleeping, but not much else to do in the area but be on the hotel grounds. Good $15 shore dive just meters from the gazebo. Dive shop was nice with big boats. The food was acceptable, breakfast was consistently terrible (think two star in Cuba) but lunch and dinner were good. The house [... read more] wine was not even drinkable so beware-bring your own wine from the town! We found it hard to get small bills to tip people. Wish the front desk (or anyone) would have been able to break twenties so that we could have tipped the friendly staff a little more.

Henry Morgan Resort: Great Resort, Great Price!

Henry Morgan Resort in West Bay, Roatan is a great value all inclusive resort! Although somewhat dated, it's wooden, cottagy accommodations are clean and have hammock equipped balconies. The maid service is excellent and the beds comfortable. I was surprised by the excellent dining room service and food quality. All meals had ample variety and were very fresh. When you go to West Bay you go for the beautiful, active beach. The water is crystal clear and you can experience great snorkelling from  [... read more]the beach. Dotting the beachfront are multiple, reasonably priced bars and restaurants with live entertainment in the evening and happy hour in the afternoon. At Henry Morgan you'll experience a great holiday that won't break the bank! Highly recommended!