El Dorado Seaside Suites: El Derada Seaside & Spa Resort

The rooms were amazing, the beds were very comfortable, the maids did towel art on our bed every day. The fridge was stocked with Pop, Water, good Beer and they left 2 bags of chips, 2 chocolate bars and bags of pretzels daily. The A-La Cartes were amazing, you definitely will not go hungry at this resort. The only thing I missed was a Steak A-La Carte. Their service was impeccable anything we needed a personal concierge was there to get it for us. The waiters were always checking to see if [... read more] you needed a drink on the Beach and Pool Side. They had a Foam Party in the main pool which was slot of fun. The Beach was good lots of chairs and cabanas, it was roped off so the Tide would not carry you out. They had games everyday at the swim up bar which was fun to participate in. This resort is definitely a 5 Star Resort!!!!

Bahia Principe Escape Sian Ka'an: Another great stay at Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an

We flew in from Ottawa with Air Canada. Long line at immigration, right back to the stairs...Monday might not be the best day to arrive in Cancun. We got through the line fairly quickly but had to wait over an hour for the rest of the people coming to the Bahia Principe. Long drive, 1.5 hours, but we knew that and the bus had wifi and beer. This was our second time at Sian Ka’an and we’ve been to Tulum and Coba before too. Check in was quick and a bell boy drove us to our room righ [... read more]t away...then a few glitches. Our room key didn’t work, I walked back twice, after 6 keys we finally had one that worked..not a good start. Two ceiling fans in our room, one over the couch worked, we couldn’t find the switch for the one over the bed. Called for service, they came quickly. We had a king bed which was just two doubles tied together..and guess where the switch for the fan was? Behind the bed! This room was wired for two doubles...strange but we just left the fan on all the time rather than pulling the bed out. Then we had a wifi issue. Apparently they deal with a server in Spain. I was told no new people could access wifi until the server was contacted. I asked about restaurant bookings, they booked two for me at the front desk and then my wifi worked because I wasn’t a new customer anymore. Weird but I had wifi then. Everything was good except the weather, I know we can’t control the weather! Our first day was good but then rain...one day it rained from 1pm until 8pm, fun taking the shuttle to the Akumal for dinner in the rain. Food at the buffet was excellent. The 24 hour snack bar was good too...much more at this snack bar than a usual snack bar. Both red and white wines were good and they made good Caesars... We did two speciality restaurants, Fritos del Mar and Portifino, both excellent. Our maid was great and our room was made up early every day. Ocean was nice and warmer than the pools, the pools need some warmer weather to warm up although they were nice and refreshing. Our flight back was delayed an hour and a half, cold and snowy in Ottawa. I gave this resort a 5* two years ago but can’t do it again this time, it’s still a really nice resort and we love the adults only part and the food and drinks. The service in the buffet was hit and miss this time depending on where you sat...still good but not as good as two years ago. And the issue with the key cards when we arrived really irritated me....are the cards old and worn out or was it the lock?..no real explanation or apology was given... All the good things still give the Sian Ka’an a 4+* and it will remain on my list of places to return too, always depending on the price though.

Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach: Great for families!

Air Transat: The transfer from the airport to the hotel was very nice. Clean, air conditioned and friendly service. It was a nice touch that the whole wedding group had a private transfer so we knew everyone on the bus and only had to stop at our hotel making the drive seem faster. The Air Transat rep was friendly, funny and good at relaying information about excursions. The one negative I would say is that she recommended the “free” shuttle to Playa Del Carmen. We understood that ther [... read more]e would be a couple stops prior and when we reserved our shuttle we checked with her to make sure that we would return to the hotel in time for the rehearsal dinner with the rest of the wedding group. She informed us that we would be back at the hotel by 5:30 at the very latest. At our second stop (the Tequila and gift shop) we had to wait about 45 minutes for the shuttle to come pick us up to bring us to Playa Del Carmen. We finally get there and upon arrival were informed to meet the shuttle for our return at 5:40... the bus was returning after the time we were told we would be back at our resort. We ended up having a quick lunch where we were dropped off and taking 2 cabs back to the resort. Unfortunately we never got a chance to “see” or walk around Playa Del Carmen and it was a wasted day that we could have spent back at our resort. Most of the other people in our group went to Playa Del Carmen in the following days, we told them to just take a cab and not waste their time with the “free” shuttle. Hotel - Check In was quick and simple. Because we were part of a wedding group they had everyone set up at a table ready to go. The resort itself is beautiful and well taken care of. We loved the open air lobby and the lobby bar as well as all the greenery and wildlife on and around the resort. It’s very spacious so you don’t feel crowded but that also means a lot of walking from your room to the restaurants or the beach. The shuttles did run fairly often enough but we found ourselves just walking most of the time. Pools - The pools we nice and clean and they had few swim up bars to choose from. They made whatever drink you requested from Mojitos to Mudslide or something special for the kids. The pool water was a little cooler than we would have liked but the kids of course still swam. There were a lot of lounger around the pools so we were usually able to find a few for our group without having to get up at 8 am to reserve them. The only negative was that there are no hot tubs. Only jacuzzi’s that are the same temperature as the pool. The only spot that hat any tru hot tubs is the spa. Restaurants - Service at all the restaurants were very good and fast. Nice atmosphere/decor, food was tasty and again plenty of drink options. Even the buffet restaurants were good. Spaces fill up quick for the specialty restaurants so I would recommend reserving them early. Rooms - The buildings are all 3 story walk ups so any one with limited mobility or in a wheel chair needs to be on the bottom floor. They offer bell boy service so that you don’t need to carry your luggage up 3 flights of stairs. No matter what side of the building you are on you get a decent view of either the pool or the grounds. The rooms weren’t too dated, they were clean and the maid service was good. The beds were 2 doubles, we would have preferred 2 queens but there was also a built in couch/futon that our other child slept on. Beds were fairly comfortable but you did feel every time the other person moves. Beach - Sand at the beach was soft, no sea shells or coral so you don’t need water shoes. They cleaned the sea weed every morning and it’s a long stretch of beach that you can walk along. There was lots of loungers and palapas to choose from and the snack bar/drink bar was close. There were a few days that the waves were really bad and the red flag was up. The lifeguards were amazing, we watched them save a couple of people. Kids Club - We went with our kids to the Star Club every day. They LOVED it there. Plenty of activities for all age groups. Very clean, modern and friendly staff. The kitchen had drinks and snacks available. There was a new PlayStation, the wii switch, a big couch, a hammock, rock climbing wall, trampolines with basketball nets, board games, crafts and art easels, jungle gym, a stage, outdoor playground and then a games room with disco for teenagers. Shows & activites - There were lots of activities and entertainment at the loud pool. One day they had a giant inflatable thing in the pool for the kids. That kept them entertained for hours! The kids shows at the theatre were fun and interactive. They were so impressed with the magic show. Overall we had a great family vacation and an enjoyable experience at the resort. We found that there weren’t too many kids there and a good balance of things for the kids and adults to do. Our only recommendation (and I’m not sure if other resorts do this since it was our first time doing an all inclusive with kids) would be that the resort give kids a different coloured glass when serving drinks. It was difficult to tell if their virgin pina coloda or sprite was theirs once they put it down. Any time we lost sight of their cup we would just get them a new drink to be on the safe side.

Catalonia Royal Tulum: Great Relaxing Stay!

We had an amazing stay at the Catalonia Royal Tulum. The grounds were beautiful, room was clean, and the staff were excellent. I have a dairy allergy and was worried it was going to be an inconvenience, however I was impressed to find that the hostess at each restaurant asked about any allergies prior to seating, and we were asked again by our servers. Our only complaints were the oddly aggressive photographers, and the individuals trying to sell time shares. That said, this would not stop us f [... read more]rom returning!

Bahia Principe Explore Coba: Amazing time in Mexico

We just returned from the Grand Bahia Principe Coba, and had an amazing time! Despite our rough start with airline delays, getting to the resort was a refreshing start from their friendly staff to comfortable rooms. Rooms and resort: They are updated and clean. We had a villa in the middle of the resort, so it was easy to walk or take the shuttles- golf cart shuttles really made it easy to get from place to place. The resort itself is HUGE. We discovered a pool on the other side of it only on ou [... read more]r last day! The beds are comfy, and the tub has jacuzzi jets, which we loved. We stayed at the Coba resort; and it is next to the Tulum, Akumal and Sian kaan Bahia resorts as well. Only downfall to Coba was no direct access to the beach, you had to take a shuttle to get there. It’s a nice beach, just lots of seaweed. Food: Delicious! Lots of variety, and also loved the 24 snack bar Pool: Clean, large, and our favourite was Jose at the pool bar- he made our stay super fun; he is friendly, makes amazing drinks, and is always smiling and working hard, thank you Jose! :) Entertainment: There is lots to do at this resort- live shows (Michael Jackson is a must see), the hacienda, live music. Overall, it is a great place to stay and we would return.

Blue Bay Grand Esmeralda: Average resort

The staff are super at the blue bay. Very friendly and try their hardest to please. The food was very good. Resort is a little tired and could do with some refreshing. Also the main lobby lacks. No nice bar nor entertainment. A live band would of been nice to listen too instead of the typical shows and disco music.

JOIA Paraiso by Iberostar: WE LOVE THE GRAND- AGAIN AND STILL!

We had been to the Iberostar Grand 4 times previous and also to the Grand in Jamaica and Dominican Republic. This Grand is the best! Staff and management are outstanding, food exceptional and the buildings are gorgeous! We had a room overlooking the tranquility pool and it was lovely. Room service is always on time and still hot! You will not be disappointed here. Lots to see and do. There is a shopping mall, casino and plenty of grounds to wander around. This resort was and still is, our [... read more] favorite in the Mayan.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun: Beautiful resort

Food and service was excellent, grounds were beautiful, bathrooms were particularly well done. The few things that could be improved upon have to do with the rooms and are as follows: flashing light on ceilings and walls for smoke detector should not be placed right above the bed, we could hear the people above us walking around so rooms not soundproofed very well, marble floors are beautiful but not practical for someone in a swim up room, they are super slippery for wet feet. Loved all the  [... read more]games that were available and the swim up bar and pools were fantastic.

Barcelo Maya Caribe: Barcelo Maya Caribe January 19 – 26, 2019 Best Trip Ever!!!

So not sure what went on with this trip, but all the planets sun and moon must have been in alignment as everything went just perfect for us. It all started for us on Sunday morning at 1.00am when we got to our hotel. We were served by David at front desk who was very friendly despite the hour. We inquired if our room was on the top level as requested and David told us unfortunately, they didn’t have anything higher up but he asked us to give him a minute and then said he was going to upgrad [... read more]e us to a VIP swimout suite because he wanted us to enjoy our vacation. We were of course blown away by this special service. David also arranged for Isaac (bell boy) to take our luggage to our room. Isaac got a golf cart loaded our luggage and drove us to the room and got us settled quickly. He showed us our room and our incredible swim out pool and Jacuzzi, what a room!!! Isaac was so nice and helpful and this in early morning hours. Because we got in so late we ordered room service the next morning. It was amazing, we ate out on our patio beside our swim out pool in total relaxation. Just heavenly. On Wednesday night the front desk manager Christian Romero called us to inquire about our stay and see if everything was satisfactory. He then suggested we should try the Premium Level for the last few days of our vacation. We went to the front desk to talk to him and he then told us he was going to upgrade us to the Privilege Level status and for the rest of our trip and we enjoyed amazing perks. Free Wi-Fi, 24 Hour room service, top shelf liquor etc. etc. Christian was so kind in doing this for us. This was our 3rd visit to the Caribe and our 9th to the Barcelo Maya resort complex. We have never been disappointed. And the friends we have recommended the Barcelo Resort to have enjoyed the same wonderful holiday. We really can’t say enough about the hotel and staff as they they’re all so friendly and accommodating. So many to thank such as Fernando and Mario at the Brasserie restaurant. Their service and attention is impeccable. Also, Jose at La Fuentes, so friendly and helpful and many, many more. This was our best trip ever all because of the wonderful staff at the Maya Caribe. We would highly recommend this resort and would go back in a heart beat.

The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences Playa Del Carmen: Beautiful Resort

The grounds, public places & rooms were very clean. Beds were comfortable and rooms quiet. A little disappointed in the beach, had alot of rock on the shore as well as in the water, and some seaweed as well. You definitely should wear water shoes when in the water. Most restaurants were buffet with some things made to order which were good. The 3 restaurants that you had to make reservations for were Italian, Mediterranean and Thai. They were not buffet and they were top notch chef quality!! Th [... read more]e unheated pools were always clean and all staff was very friendly and helpful. The shows at night were very entertaining!! They have a gin bar and a tequila bar which you could drink almost anything which was free with the all inclusive. No matter where you were on the resort you could have any drink you wanted. Lots of things to do like pickle ball, tennis, yoga, aqua fit, table tennis. There was also dancing at a roof top bar. Also massages which were extra. The weather was perfect....85ish with some humidity and very little rain. Didn't have to pay for anything unless you went into a store. Best to bring some Pesos for tipping. All in all the Resort was very beautiful and you felt very safe!! First experience with an all-inclusive and it was an amazing one!!

KLR The City Condos by Sercotel: Great Condo

The condo is located in a good location where you can walk to the main strip and yet be away from the noise, lots of great local restaurants in the area too. Only down side would be the European Meal plan as its a coffee and muffin so for those who don't want that selection every day it's not a great selection!

Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach: Amazing Resort

It was a big resort but it didn't feel crowded. With everything well spaced out, you were never crowded. The beach was nice; bar close by, towel hut and food was available. The A La Carte Restaurant were superb, great food and great selections. As well as the buffet. The kids club was handy. The mall with the disco (free free free) was all part of the all inclusive. The shuttles to and fro was a godsend. Very clean and lots of hot water in the rooms. FYI: Do not take the "free" shuttl [... read more]e to Del Carmen. It's only a 20 minute drive, it took us 3 hrs. They do a stop at a jewelry store and then to the tequila store. They drop you off and then you have to wait for your shuttle to come back to pick you up to take you to Del Carmen.

Excellence Riviera Cancun: Great Resort!!!!

This was our first all- inclusive vacation and thanks to Lisa for all the time spent helping us decide, we had an unforgettable holiday. The staff was amazing and each time any of them passed,you were greeted with “OLA”. The grounds were beautiful and everything was spotless. Rooms were gorgeous with all the amenities you could ever need. We never had a bad meal the entire week from room service to fine dining! There was a variety of ages from young adults to senior citizens but there was [... read more] something for everyone. If you wanted beach activities and music during the day or a quiet place on a comfy lounger to read a book or just relax, there was always a spot. Nightly entertainment and 2 special event dinners were excellent. Very easy to book a side trip to Tulum. (Highly recommend) Only complaint heard from anyone there was the coffee in the restaurants. Majority of people went to the Aroma Cafe daily and would bring their coffee to restaurant of choice. Many people we met were repeat patrons of Excellence Riviera or if their first time were already planning on going back. Thanks Trip Central and Lisa for helping us choose Excellence Riviera! We truly were pampered and had a relaxing week.

Grand Palladium Kantenah: Amazing resort

Resort was amazing with all the facilities and staff, I would definitely come back again to it if I have a chance to The resort is so relaxing and it have so many places to stay at and chill for a vacation Only thing we were not happy with is the room, it was a bit old and the room was dammed and the AC was not working properly, room service did not change the towels as requested and required is to call on many occasions to get the new face towels

Sandos Playacar Beach Resort: Excellent cuisine choices !

Lovely place , nice location on the beach , cafes buffet , bbq cooking by the pool and 5 al carte were super!!!something for all The evening shows were well done Large complex with beautifully maintained grounds

Bahia Principe Explore Tulum: No the best option

You can’t swim in the sea because has a lot of rocks, very small area where you can go in... Food is not very good.in the buffet area .. as same as Gourmet restaurants. Poor variety and quality in food and beverages. they didn’t put new hands soap bar in three days until we ask for. Toilet has a water leak, never came to repair it.

Hyatt Vivid Playa Del Carmen: Fantastic spot

Hotel and grounds meticulously maintained. Variety of food choices for anyone. Great choices of alcohol. Beach and pools perfect. Staff very helpful and service perfect. Rooms perfect. Close to 5th avenue. Entertainment very professional and enjoyable.

Blue Bay Grand Esmeralda: Bluebay grand esmeralda

Air canada made this trip prety bad for us , we took our flight to toronto a day early befor our transfer flight to mexico so that we could go visit toronto , cn tower etc.. arrived in toronto saturday night went to get our luggage following everyone who also came from our plane , we waited close to one hour befor the belt with the luggage started moving , only one bag came out , waited and waited thought maybe it was a little delayed , finaly we went to ask the worker and gave us the run around [... read more] for 20 minutes untill they finaly told us all our luggage was sent to montreal instead of toronto and that it would arrive to toronto at 8am the following day so at that time its close to midnight we decided to just go to the hotel because the night was done , we got up early to go make sure we got our luggage befor our transfer flight to mexico , got there still no luggage they said should be here at 12pm , kept waiting still nothing , finaly after waiting untill we had to board our plane to mexico they still had no answer , arrived at the resort we spend 3 days with nothing , dealing with air canada trying to find our luggage after paying so much money for this trip , we lost our night in toronto and lost almost 3 days enjoying our trip , but after this air canada nightmare our luggage finaly showed up with a couple days left of our trip so we made the best of it , the resort was amazing the staff was awesome verry friendly , loved the seadoos that where right on the beach at the resort ! Not one complaint on the resort , food was great !! Hopefully air canada can find a way to make it right for making the start of our vacation a nightmare !!

The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences Playa Del Carmen: Our family trip

As far as 1st impressions go, the resort was lacking the "wow" factor as we entered through the reception area. Not only was the lobby plain in appearance, we also did not get greeted with the typical welcome with a complimentary beverage, etc...rather we were told about extra costs for losing towel cards and that we would be charged an "environmental" tax...not necessarily the best first impression. Fortunately this was the only real questionable element we dealt with aside from a few Conc [... read more]ierge ladies who did not follow through with some requests even though they confirmed the requests. Again, these elements were the only real issues. The resort is fantastic - our suite was spectacular and the restaurants were all top notch. Service at all of the facilities was also very professional and friendly. Entertainment could have been (much) better but not a big issue for our family.

Royalton Hideaway Riviera Cancun: Great vacation

It is a beautiful resort. We appreciated the adult only setting. Would have liked to have more adult only restaurants. Service in restaurants and at the pool was excellent. Rooms were clean and comfortable.