Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun: Beautiful Beach, Great Service

Secrets Maroma is in the process of renovating their rooms and we stayed in one of the newly renovated rooms. PROS: * Adults only! No kids! Most of the people were couples. There were a few groups of women, but 95% couples. * Excellent service everywhere. Beach drink/food service was constant and they brought you water without asking. They also bring around cold face cloths in afternoon and clean your sunglasses. Concierge called us by name and was very helpful. * Beach is very  [... read more]nice. Sand is white powder. No rocks in water or beach. Lots of palpas and chairs for sun or shade. * Food is excellent. Montreal steak at Portofino restaurant is to die for. So tender you don't need a knife. The food quality is great. However, I found the selection to be lacking at the buffet. Most large resorts have a large buffet selection. There was plenty to eat - just not the selection that most large resorts offer. * Nightly shows were entertaining and different than most resorts offer and are worth watching. They offer lots of daily and evening entertainment including foam party in pool, live size angry birds, Mexican bracelet making, spinning in pool, BB gun shooting, archery, mini golf, Texas hold em tournaments etc. CONS: * If you are a smoker, this is not the resort for you. When you check in, you have to sign a piece of paper that you will not smoke in your room OR ON THE BALCONY!!!!! (Which is absurd - I can understand in the rooms, but not in outdoor open areas) My husband smokes and felt like a criminal. There are only a couple designated smoking areas and you are not supposed to smoke anywhere except in those areas. People did smoke in the outdoor areas and on the beach, but had to do it very discretely. * Air conditioning in our renovated room is movement activated. Therefore, it completely shuts off at night and it gets hot in the room. Whenever one of us woke up, we would have to get up and walk around in order to set off the sensor to start up the air conditioning. It was a major pain in the ass and it gets hot in the room real fast. * Although the brochure states that there is a buffet for dinner, the World Cafe where it is supposed to happen is closed every night. A couple nights there is a buffet/show around the pool, but on some nights there is no buffet dinner. * The Barefoot Grill was closed due to maintenance. There is a handout that you get every night telling you the activities etc for the next day. There was nothing on the handout to say the Barefoot grill was closed or that they had moved the food to the other side of the Seaside grill restaurant. They should have posted a sign on the Barefoot grill. We didn't know that you could get food elsewhere. Very poor communication, especially when they have a flyer going out every day. It should have been updated. * We were told by the beach service staff one day that we could not sit at the beach under the palpa because we were only two people and were told to leave the beach area. This really made us angry and upset. Especially when on each side of us, there were two people under each palpa and they never said anything to them. This resort has too many rules. It's crazy.... don't smoke, don't sit here, don't do this. I am giving this resort a 5 star because the beach was gorgeous and the service and food were excellent. The resort is very nice. I think every resort has problems and issues they need to fix and no resort is 100% perfect. Because the main elements of food, beach, service and accommodations were very good, I will give it 5 stars.

Barcelo Maya Colonial: Not for babies

Hi Teresa, We just came back from our trip to Mexico. To tell you the truth we didn't like much our vacations. The beach has a lot or rocks and a lot of waives, we couldn't swim with the babies. The buffet was way to far from our suite and was impossible to walk with the babies 3 times per day because it was too hot. But the most important thing was that I was looking to go to a nice beach that I can swim with the babies and this time I couldn't do it. That was very bad. We had to travel  [... read more]2 hours to get to Isla Mujeres to find a nice beach that I could swim with the babies. But thats it, only one day of beach. I am very disappointed of this trip. My friends and husband are very disappointed as well.

JOIA Paraiso by Iberostar: Paradise

From the moment we got picked up we knew we were in paradise, the hotel is beautiful and the grounds are amazing , the food selection is the best we have ever seen, the beAch is well kept , food at surf and Turf and Italian were are favorite

Bahia Principe Explore Coba: If you're looking to Party book Coba, if you're looking to relax book Tulum....

When we arrived to Coba we were greated by a dozen drunk people at the front desk (like falling down drunk). This was not how I wanted to spend my vacation and opted to be moved to Tulum. We had Golden Club, so we were able to make use of all the resorts on the complex. Our experience at Tulum was awesome. Close to the beach, service was great and lots of choices at the buffet. Our room was spacious and the AC worked great. Which was great since the humidex was 88% The bar fridge was k [... read more]ept topped up and the cleaning service kept our room in tip top shape. Yes, it had a musty smell...it happens with tons of humidity and everything stays damp. It didn't make or break our vacation. The Beach. For those who dream of white sandy beaches with no waves, rocks or seaweed..sorry, there are all three. Bring water shoes or walk up the beach past the resort (at your own risk) and you'll find calm, sandy waters. The beaches in the Hotel Zone are all the same, so don't make this a make or break for the Hotel. Just bring water shoes! As with most resorts the A La Cartes were OK. The Japanese restaurant was by far the best. I preferred eating at the buffet, I was able to make better and more healthy choices. However, I did eat my fair share of tortilla's with Gauc and Salsa....delish! I'm not a big drinker. But, the beer was cold and the margaritas were real....no fake lime slushy stuff. We had wine with supper, it was good. Oh! I almost forgot....At breaskfast, get a coffee with milk and ask for a shot of Bailey's and a glass of ice....mix it all together over the ice....voila! Great way to start the Day! Lastly, the resorts trolley system is very efficient...so don't worry about having to walk far. Hope this Helps.

Barcelo Maya Colonial: Money well spent

1. This is a couples resort. Not for singles wanting to party. 2. The wifi was free for a few hrs in morning and afternoon. 3. The beach shore was rocky. Other than that, excellent ...service.food..etc

Blue Bay Grand Esmeralda: very good

excellent food. many options for vegetarian and non vegetarian which i was happy about it. very close to many places such as playa del carmen. the hotel offer a taxi service for $5 to playa del carmen and they pick you up as well .

Grand Palladium Colonial: It was nice

The hotel was nice and comfy clean and roomy air conditioning after the humid temperatures outside lots of mosquitoes but I know you can't control that. I love how you put pecies of nature in the resort how it was open and beautiful. But the food could have better some of it made me sick but the Japanese restaurant was amazing and the buffet was good

Riu Palace Mexico: very good resort

the ground the building and restaurant were very clean. The beach was amazing. Only issue at the beach was the beach bar was too far. The people are friendly and willing to help. Very good services. Some people did complained about the air conditioning in their room, we had no problem.

Barcelo Maya Tropical: Almost perfect!

We spent 11 days , starting on September 15 at Barceló Maya Tropical. Upon arrival due to increased flow of visitors attending conference at Barceló Maya Resorts, we were upgraded by the hotel to premium junior suite with ocean view. Thank you Barceló! The view was breathtaking. The room, however, had few issues that made our stay not entirely comfortable. The air conditioning was preset at 21 degree Celsius, We found it often too cold, especially at night and were unable to adjust set [... read more]tings. Secondary the exhaust fan in the bathroom was not working, leavening smog of steam everywhere in the room. The bed and pillows were super comfortable and ensured good sleep and rest. The housekeeping service , despite tipping was average and inconsistent. It happened that the room was not cleaned at all and towels were not replaced. We called reception desk and asked to see someone from housekeeping. The issue wasn't resolved and after waiting for two hours we decided to shower and reuse old, wet towels that were lying on the floor since the morning, so we could go for dinner. The housekeeping supervisor who was speaking to another tourist, few doors away from our room, was very helpful and understanding, making sure that we returned after dinner to clean place. The grounds are magnificent and beautifully maintained. The beach was rocky at some areas, so we recommend wearing water shoes. There is plenty of chairs on the beach and no need to get up early in the morning to run to the beach to secure lounge chair that is close to the water. The beach itself is wide, but not very long for those who enjoy long walks. There is small reef just off shore which combined with crystal clear water, provides easy access for snorkeling . You can admire and enjoy colorful fish, turtles and see sting rays. Great variety of food choices . There is plenty of options in buffets plus five a la carte restaurants .We recommend La Trattoria and Mexico Lindo. Delicious food accompanied by exceptionally friendly, helpful service. The only exclusion and surprising disappointment was waitress at Kyoto restaurant at Barceló Maya Colonial, as reported in the complaint letter submitted through our BD Representative. We would like to extend our special "thank you" to Byron Zorrabal and Victor (sorry but we don't know Victor's last name) in Tropical Buffet for above and beyond super service, for kindness, enthusiasm, being so attentive, welcoming us always with smiles and friendly attitude. We hope to see you guys again! During the day you can opt for quiet time or get involved with variety activities that are taking place around the pool and on the beach. The activity team is incredible! Super energetic, entertaining motivating and ensuring that we all had fun and good laugh. Water aerobics and dancing classes were the best cheer! The Water Sport Centre at Maya Caribe offers variety of free of charge water sports from catamarans, kayaking, wind surfing, and more. Gabriela Hernadez is always very helpful with booking and suggestions. Gabriela always shines with super friendly attitude and will greet you with a smile. Thanks you Gabriela for making our stay at Barceló so much more memorable and allowing us to enjoy our time on catamaran ride! As for night entertainment we felt that there was lack of information and poor communication about what was taking place in the resort. The Palenque theater was closed for most of our stay. In the Tropical Lobby there was no information listed what was happening in the Kukulkan theater at Barceló Caribe or where and when evening events were taking place. The reception staff at the front desk gave us few times wrong information leading to us missing on events . We learned that going daily to guest services and getting information was the best and most reliable option. We wish however that there would be a calendar either at front lobby or on the board by swimming area listing shows. The last but definitely not least is the dolphinarium. As animals lovers and environmentalists we have refused to go and see the show. We are livid about five dolphins being kept caged in captivity and from what we heard from others in really small pool. With so much to do in the resort, is this so called "attraction" really necessary for the tourists? It makes no sense, having on the other hand signs posted not to feed fish to preserve local fauna, having isolated area preserving eggs of sea turtles, not using straws in drinks to preserve environment, and yet keeping animals in captivity away from their natural habitat. We are hoping that the voices of those don't support having dolpinarium on the Barceló Maya Grand Resort will be heard. Thank you Barcelo for much needed relaxation!

Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen: O.K. resort

this hotel was not up to par - a few things advertised as hotel having did not exist. There was only one "a la carte" restaurant - the "il pescatere" an Italian restaurant which was very nice - but the other two were closed "Maria's" and "Health" and under construction. The Brazilian restaurant was NOT "a la carte" but rather more Buffet style - as there were no menus - and the food was not that great. The main buffet "Albatros" was a disappointment as the same food(lunch and dinner) was ser [... read more]ved everyday, cold and the variety was very limited. There was no self dispensing alcohol bottles in the room (as was advertised) and you could tell where the bottles were at one time as it was now sealed and the wall redone.. The beach was very limited with really no swimming ability in the gulf because of all the algea. I would not recommend letting children play on the beach.

Riu Palace Mexico: Riu Palace Mexico

Loved the hotel. Beautiful. My only complaint was the weather. Very very hot and humid. I would only return in the Winter months. A friend's allergies were bad because of a moldy smell. I loved the shopping at 5th Avenue but again it was too hot to enjoy. The food was the best I've had at any of the resorts I have been to.

Bahia Principe Explore Coba: My first visit to Mexico

It was truly a fantastic experience. It was my first time joining an all inclusive package and it was totally worth every penny of my money spent. Starting from the booking, I had to call Tripcentral.ca because I needed some special arrangement and I spoke to Susan Snider. She was friendly and helpful, although I understood she was extremely busy handling other inquiries due to the hurricane that affected other passengers right before my departure. Once my booking was confirmed, a few days be [... read more]fore my departure, I received an email with an electronic FAQ form that literally answer any sort of questions. I submitted a single question to test the service and immediately received a response regarding the transfer from the airport to the resort. This time I stayed at Grand Bahia Principe Coba. I realize that in Riviera Maya there are a handful of choices of luxurious resorts but this one that I chose I was told that they have the best entertainments and animations. The resort is huge and it is a network of 4 hotels located next to each other that are all connected by shuttles. Guests can use the combined facilities including a private beach and a golf course. I has also a plaza called "La Hacienda" which has a lot of little shops selling local artifacts and souvenirs. It also houses bars with live music, a casino and a disco within a miniature of a typical Mexican town. I don't really have to go out and can easily spend a week just staying in the resort. The staffs are professionally trained with very friendly attitude. Starting from gardeners to housekeepers and waitresses, all staffs will greet you with a big grin on the face saying "Ola, buenos dias!" A special remark on the entertainers. They are the real reason for this being the right resort to choose. You will see them starting early in the morning by the pool organizing activities all the way until the end of the day. You will find their presence as well in the evening shows, live music entertainment and even in the disco dancing with guests and to ensure the lively atmosphere until 2 AM in the morning. Finally, about the restaurants. People usually have the impression that we won't find any decent food in all inclusive resorts. I must say this is an exception from the standard. This resort has more than 10 restaurants with multiple choices from eastern to western cuisine. The buffet serves a great variety of food that bears a different theme every day and the "A la carte" restaurants are all of very high standard, except the Japanese restaurant. I will definitely repeat the experience whenever I can and highly recommend this hotel as well as choosing Tripcentral.ca to make your booking.

Riu Palace Mexico: Excellent resort

We were very pleased with The Riu Palace Mexico. The staff were extremely friendly and very accommodating. The facilities were beautiful. The food was amazing both at both the buffet and the a La Cartes that we went to. The rooms were spacious and the bed was very comfortable.. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

Platinum Yucatan Princess: Great Resort

We stayed on the adults side of the Platinum Princess (Yucatan side). We had a deluxe swim up room. I wouldn't say this is a 5 star but the price is right. Rooms and resort were clean. Food was AMAZING on the Yucatan side. This resort is quite large and not the best layout. The food on the Princess side was not as good. Beach was beautiful and the staff were extremely friendly. One thing that was slightly frustrating was some of the disorganization. Some things were difficult to book [... read more] and it took some time to do. I have stated at other resorts where everything was much more organized. All in all in was a great resort for the price.

Dreams Sapphire Resort and Spa: Incredible Experience

Best service at a resort hands down!! Immaculately clean at all times and the food is way above average for an all inclusive. I have travelled extensively throughout the Caribbean and can say the Now Sapphire is #1

Sandos Playacar Beach Resort: Beautiful Resort

Very nice place had a great time!! Rooms are nice big and clean. Resort is big nice walk path to beach, would take about 10 minutes. Beautiful beach. They should improve on the night entertainment shows are not great. The service and food was very good.

Iberostar Selection Paraiso Maya Suites: Worth every penny!! Highly recommend!!

Beautiful resort!! Once you enter the resort, it's clean, smells good, inviting and the staff is friendly and helpful!! Love the lemonade cucumber water they greet you with at the check-in desk!! Even my husband liked it!! We appreciated the golf carts servicing to rooms, throughout the grounds and other resorts!! Our elevators was not working but managed even if we were on the 3rd floor. I know they would have accommodated us, if we couldn't manage!! They are there to help the best they can, as [... read more] they care!! We have no complaints on our room!! It was nice and served its purpose!! Food was great and the à la carte dining was amazing!! The beach is WOW!! Loved it!! It's the nicest and clearest of all the resorts you're able to visit during your stay!! The pools are great, well maintained.. My only concern was the actual guests not respecting and keeping clean.. but staff worked really hard to keep up and always kept it clean!! I wish people would be more considerate while enjoying the beauty and service offered even on vacation!! SO much to do and see but lots of walking between resorts which wasn't bad.. It kept us in shape with all the food and drinks intake :D !! The kids club was absolutely incredible!! Top notch staff and program was awesome!! My oldest loved it and highly recommend!! My youngest didn't get the chance to enjoy but always had a place.. He was accepted and he got to be on stage during some of the performance with the kids club kids!! My children were loved and treated like gold and so were we!! I We liked the entertainment offered for adults after the kids show. The staff at this resort, works hard and long hours!! Well worth tipping to help them out.. Keep in mind, tips are shared among the staff servicing the area you're at (so tip a little more, if you're able too)!! Never forget to say thank you and show your appreciation!! We never got bothered at the beach to buy things.. Only when you're going towards the Lindo.. The market on the crossing (I think 2x a week) and rare occasions would want you to buy something. If you don't want anything, just say no thank you!! Johny (I hope I'm not spelling his name wrong), the main pool bartender is the best!! He is so knowledgeable, kind and respectful! He cares, works hard and treats you very well!! For our first experience, we have been blessed with good weather, a great resort and great people to remember!! I give the staff and everything about this experience/resorts an A+ in my books!! It gave us more than just a special vacation to remember by!! We were sad to go!! Thank you for the much-needed family time.

Grand Palladium Colonial: Absolutely Zero Complaints!!

I was so impressed with this hotel. Not only was it an amazing hotel for kids, with its awesome water park and phenomenal kids club, but it was impeccably clean and well taken care of. I never saw one dirty bathroom on the whole premise. The service was great and the people were so friendly and helpful! We even had a medical scare that included a trip to the hospital, and the hotel was right on top of it and even gave my son a get better soon gift which he is taking to school for show and tell!! [... read more] It really was a wonderful vacation, and I'm very sad to be home! Really looking forward to going back hopefully soon!!

Riu Palace Mexico: Awesome time

From the food to beaches, everything was top notch. Will definitely come here again. They have tons of food choices and dessert items. In room service is great! Everything is close by so you don't have to walk alot.

Ocean Riviera Paradise: Great resort!

This was our second time at the resort. The first time they had a welcome wine bottle in the room and this time not, but that's nothing major. The resort has great pools, clean grounds and clean rooms. Our shower drain wasn't drai ing properly and our bathroom floor flooded couple of times. We reported it twice. The beach is ice but the water has rocks. Very hard to get in the water without water shoes or while holding two small kids. There's lots of animals on the grounds; Coti, monkeys and ig [... read more]uanas. The kids loved it. Unfortunately the seafood restaurant was closed the whole week we were there. The kids water park is great but what I didn't like is the life guards didn't let us go down with our daughter but when locals come.in on the weekend it was allowed for them.