Barcelo Solymar: The not so sure resort

First the good stuff it was really easy access for wheel chairs on the grounds of the hotel and very clean in the outside the beach was super. Inside was a night mare dirty no toilet seat in the bathroom dirty towels daily dirty sheets 2weeks never changed the sheets once what a mess never again but I will return to Cuba but not where we stayed that's for sure

Barcelo Bavaro Palace: Beautiful Resort

We had a great trip with no issues. The room, the beach the food, the staff were all great. We would definitely come back and definitely recommend the Barcelo Bravo Palace. The location of the resort to the airport was great as well no long drives

Occidental Arenas Blancas: This hotel needs attention

We arrived late on Sat. night (1130 pm) and the lobby was open, but it was lifeless and badly lit giving off an institutional vibe. We were escorted to our room promptly by the bellboy but found it was more like a college dorm room than a hotel room in a tropical resort. There were no room towels and not enough beach towels for the three of us. The double bed mattresses were so tired my body rested on the boxspring and my husband woke with a spring poking in his back. Pool tiles were all mis [... read more]sing around the edges on the bottom and sides of the pool and the water was cloudy. Only two elevators worked, one of which broke down. The late night snack bar had the feeling of being a prison cafeteria line-up. There was always an interminable line-up for the most popular item, be it coffee, snacks, pasta chef, pancake chef, the bar, there were never enough staff to support the busy times around the resort. No one smiled, there were no maps available for guests to use, and the guest services person who demanded that all issues be presented to him, deferred every single query that we presented to him. We arrived Saturday night and couldn't book an a la carte until Tuesday and weren't successful getting a booking without firstly trekking over to Barcelo, then back again to Arenas Blancas, and finally escalating the issue - first to guest services, who was useless, and then to the Sunwing rep who took pity on us and found us a couple of bookings. This process occupied over half a day of our vacation. Then on Thursday Corporate office reps appeared out of nowhere and distributed satisfaction surveys, and suddenly the animation reps were doing their jobs and putting on the pool and beach activities, there was a buffet maid walking around cleaning the buffet stations and making sure there were plates and cups, there were chefs and bartenders everywhere, it was like night and day seeing the staff suddenly smiling and willing to help and serve you. I could go on and on... The resort needs to better equip and support their staff. The resort has good bones but maintenance has fallen off their radar. I do NOT recommend this resort the way it is. The beach is amazing but just find another hotel

Barcelo Gran Faro Los Cabos: Nice Place, Beach Disappointing.

The room was fine, but seems due for an upgrade. We had a Superior Ocean View Room, and were initially given two small- very hard, almost double size beds. When we requested a change, we were moved to a room with a King sized bed. The bed was still a little hard, and the pillows were well used, but the linens were clean. The pools, restaurants, and food in general, were all great. The staff was also awesome. There was no swimming in the ocean because of the very dangerous undertow. The water  [... read more]in this area is not very warm in March, and the beach was also not that great to walk on due to the slope and deeper sand than usual. We missed snorkelling, boogie boarding and swimming. Finally, there wasn't as much to do and see in this area, as we have experienced in other parts/ resorts in Mexico.

Occidental Caribe: Nice resort, wrong week

We went during March break, which was unfortunately the same week as spring break for college students. Our hotel was overrun by them. The noise and partying was ridiculous - we were kept up until 5:00 am the first night and every night of our stay was noisy! Didn't get a good night sleep the whole time due to our neighbours and the resort having loud music outside as well. Our room overlooked the pool - not a great spot. The main pool was really nice, but we never got to use it because it  [... read more]was always full of students who were drunk and partying. This resort had the most beautiful beach. We loved the beach and never had to worry about finding chairs each day. The rooms were dated, but okay considering you only slept there. The food was nothing spectacular, but to be expected. Overall would probably go back to this resort, but stay in the upgraded section and definitely not during March break.

Occidental Punta Cana: Beautiful Beach - Not 4.5 star service

Few key points regarding our visit: -Very busy resort but all to be expected for spring break/march break trip -Staff (concierge and his manager) were very pushy for 2 days straight regarding sale of timeshare (We were pushed to meet a representative for a 1.5 hour meeting in order to obtain a 50$ voucher for the gift shop. We were then reminded to help out the staff *our concierge* as he gets commission when we sit for the meeting. We were then advise to lie to the timeshare representative a [... read more]bout how long we have been dating as according to the laws of their country we needed to be together 3 years or live together in order to obtain the voucher for the gift shop. When I left the meeting point to go gather our passport, the manager of our concierge continued to speak with my bf and showed him pictures of himself when he used to work out as my bf is into fitness and scrolled through his library only to show him pictures of naked women he had on his phone. I felt that was very inappropriate. We finally advised them that we had not come on vacation to meet for sales meeting for half a day so advised we would not need their assistance. This unfortunately left a bad taste in our mouth regarding the staff) -The main buffet restaurant was a bit chaotic (We would have people come sit beside us to enjoy a meal, only to leave the table for a minute and return to have their plates and drinks removed from the tables in order to make room for next guests. Unless one person stayed at the table, your food and drinks were taken away. It was already bad enough that it took sometimes up to 15 minutes to get an omelette in the morning and worse that we both had to wait 15 minutes separately as we couldn't leave the table) -Beverage selection was not a 4.5 star (We started approaching the bars with requests for margaritas only to be told that they did not have tequila on hand. We then would order mojitos and were told they were only available in the lobby bar - which they then advised they couldn't make them there either. We aren't big on sugar drinks but ended up drinking mostly vodka lemonade for most of the trip. Not too sure if this was an issue due to the busy time or just simply the resort not being able to offer as much selection.) -The beach was beautiful and weather was perfect which helped make our visit pleasant. -Housekeeping wouldn't come clean our room until 4pm some days and it ran into the timeframe we had to get ready for our dinner. This was a bit of an inconvenience. This was our first all inclusive vacation together in 2.5 years and we expected a bit more but overall it was nice to get away to the sunshine. Only reason we would recommend the reason was for the beach, the weather and the updated rooms. Thank you

Palma Real: Good

It was a great vacation...................................................................................................................................................................................

Royal Hideaway Playacar: Stunning Resort

This resort is truly a 5 star. The rooms are beautiful and large. The beach has white sands and the water is different shades of turquoise. I have never seen and been in such clear and clean water. The service is outstanding, very polite and helpful. We did tip a lot but it never seemed expected. The infinity pool was a lot of fun and we participated in the water fit held at noon which was so fun and the music was peppy and made you want to dance in the water. The meals were so delicious, espe [... read more]cially at Spices, an authentic Mexican Caribbean restaurant. Try the chicken tortilla soup and the fresh fish options. Everything was so good. Be sure to go to the Allegro bar for the live music and delicious margaritas.We definitely recommend this resort.I would love to go again.

Barcelo Bavaro Beach: Awesome resort

Great resort! From the time we checked in when they accomodated our request that our daughter's room be close to ours. Great food and terrific service especially at La Brisa restaurant where Labrida and Juan Kelly were amazing! Of course there always could be improvements such as; - perhaps a snack bar, grill or something similar between restaurant openings. - Hoyo 19 restaurant service, food and dining hours took a significant down turn from our last visit 2 years ago. We were unpleas [... read more]antly surprised to see the golf cart rentals more than doubled from 2 years ago ($35 to $75). If this Barcelo wants to remain our top destination choice then it has to stop these negative changes. Sincerely Mario

Occidental at Xcaret Destination: Can’t wait to go back!

Occidental Xcaret destination is the most beautiful the resort I have ever visited. The grounds, pools and beach are amazing. The food is delicious. The rooms are clean and spacious. I can’t wait to go back.

Occidental Arenas Blancas: Nice Location

This hotel is located right on a very beautiful beach and just one block from the town of Varadero which is awesome. I also liked the large pool. The beach and pool were always busy but we could always find a couple of deck chairs too. The amenities were not the greatest as the hotel is a bit older and it has not been maintained as well as it could be. I hated that the air conditioner would not adjust its aim and I had to move the bed around to avoid being pounded all night long; but it was  [... read more]good that the air conditioning worked! The food was just ok, especially difficult for me as a vegetarian; the specialty restaurants were definitely nothing special. The best day was when we hired a private driver (Angel 52586667) to go to Mantanzas, checked out the real Cuba lifestyle, then had lunch at a lovely private (vs government) owned restaurant called Litoral Matancero, after which we did the deep cave tour (biggest cave I've been in), and finished with a dip in the fresh water at the base of a small cave near the airport in Varadero on our way back. Awe, good times!

Allegro Playacar: Poor rating due to poor management

The grounds, rooms were very clean. Food was good. Management needs improvement for front desk. There was a mix up regarding our rooms. You put in a request in for building 57, we could not have them unless we paid for upgrade of 300. We could not afford that.You do not get want you request. The only availability was 38, Michele and Mahlon got the front upper level but we were behind them looking at another building. It was the only one available. We arrived at 11 and they told us our room would [... read more] be available until 3. Come 3 o'clock, they wasn't available. My husband was pretty mad because we were waiting to long.He demanded to go somewhere else but air transit was not there, so we had to wait. It should not take 4 hrs. to get our room. He demaned to see the manager but it was nothing they could do. It was very hot and we were tired. I had a headache and not feeling good. It was 4 o'clock before we received the key. At that time we would take anything. The next they tried to push a membership on us. Not a good thing. We would not go back to that resort. There was a big misunderstanding with us and the rep. for barcello. They told us they would like to talk to us over breakfast but didn't relize they were taking us for ride and wanted to show us the Occeantile Xcarlet. Nice resort but not interested. We misunderstood them on wed., we thought we were having breakfast on the resort. We asked us to take s back, to be with our friends. If they would have left us on the resort, we would have set down and listen. They were very pushy. The maids were good, kept the clean. Pool was clean, beach was good but a lot of seaweed. They cleaning it all the time. Food was good, you did not go hungry. Food available all the time. The location was good, close to playa del carmon. Close to town The bar tenders were good and entertainment.

Barcelo Huatulco: Barcel Huatulco

Staff was very good. The food and restaurants require more effort, and also the special restaurants aren't open every day. The location is great, rooms were fine. Did not use pools beach was very nice. Few more showers from beach would helpful. May want to add a few more beach chairs and huts. Enjoyed the people and found it to be very safe. Thanks for a relaxing vacation.

Barcelo Bavaro Palace: Great place BUT

My child contracted Hand-foot-and-mouth disease on the third day. This is a very contagious virus so it is obviously lurking all over this resort. We met other people whose kids got it too and found out after that there is an outbreak of this disease in Punta Cana, and has been for a few weeks already. We met people at the airport who stayed at different resorts whose kids were also infected. This REALLY spoils your vacation. And the worst part is - this is a known issue. Many children were seen [... read more] by a doctor and have confirmation notes of this disease. At the airport, the check-in agent knew right away what it was and told me to go straight to the doctor when I get home. We should have been notified prior to the trip of this outbreak especially given the young age of our children who are most at risk. For four out of seven days we stayed in our room watching movies because my daughter had a high fever and a painful, itchy rash. Huge waste of money for us. This resort is not cheap. Otherwise the place is pretty good and I would return. Great amenities. The food is ok. The rooms were not my favourite but that's probably because we stayed in ours so much that I had time to notice every little imperfection.

Barcelo Maya Colonial: Fabulous huge Resort

We have traveled different resorts in the Mayan Riviera over the last 4 years and found this resort to have beautiful manicured grounds along with well maintained buildings / walkways. It is a huge resort and enjoyed all the large promenades which were used for walking pedestrians only and not motorized carts. There are numerous large pools and play pools for children so we never felt crowded. The availability of lounge chairs either around the pools or at the beach never posed an issue. Plent [... read more]y of water sports and daily beach activities. We attended 8 A-La-Cartes during our stay and found the Mexican and Japanese our favorites and also found resort staff were always friendly and courteous and picking up a drink at any of the bars was always quick. The night shows in the theater were OK but the sound system there was terrible. We checked in Feb 28th only to discover an electronic music concert called Deja Voom starting up that Thursday night down at the far end of the resort. That was the beginning of 3 sleepless nights due to the bass sound being so loud along with the partying attendees coming back to their rooms and carrying on until wee hours of the morn. When we booked our resort we didn't have any idea of concerts at the facility so that was quite the surprise. Before ever booking again I would be cautious and review any upcoming concerts venues during our potential stay there. Overall 7 of our 11 days were great!

Barcelo Maya Colonial: Great resort

Rooms were very nice. Pool was huge. The entire resort was very clean. Would have liked more beer in the room. I could never find the beer delivery guy. Would likely recommend this resort to a friend.

Barcelo Solymar: Loved the location!

There was six of us that went on this trip. Great Hotel and location. I have now been to Varadero several times and I have to say that this was my favorite spot. It was a good sized resort and always lots of room to find a place to sit and relax. Never huge line ups at dinner or the bars. I loved the grounds, pool area and food was good too! Most of all The beach in Varadero is one of the most beautiful beaches you will ever experience. The staff was always so accomidating to help us out [... read more] in any way they can. I would definitely stay here again.

Barcelo Solymar: Fantastic

First time travelling alone. What a beautiful resort, and even more so the people from front desk to maids to bartenders and servers. Everyone was so accommodating. Clean room with a nice pool view. The beach was obviously gorgeous. Food was ok ( I’m not a picky eater) so I always found something I liked All and all amazing trip, walking distance to market and downtown. Will be back in August!!!

Royal Hideaway Playacar: Spectacular resort and service

We loved the property, the service, the staff, the food.....all of it! It was so well maintained, staff always cleaning the property. We actually had no idea it was one of the Leading Hotels in the World, and were very pleasantly surprised. It was a perfect vacation, and we intend to come back soon! Thank you so very much.

Occidental Cozumel: A week of Sun and Diving

We just got back from our week at Occidental Cozumel. We chose to try this resort before settling on a brand of hotels we truly love, like Iberostar. Keep in mind while reading this review that we just got back 3 months ago from being at Iberostar Paraiso Maya, which was an incredible 5 star experience compared to what we received at Occidental. Upon arrival at 11am, we were told that we had to check in at the Royal Club and to wait for a golf car to pick us up. After waiting around for 1 [... read more]0 - 15 minutes, my husband and I chose to walk the 2 minutes over to the club to check into our rooms (not an issue, but not sure why they wanted to drive us over). There seems to only be one golf cart for the entire resort, very much unlike Iberostar's fleet of 20+. Wifi is an additional fee if you are not Royal Club (it was free at Iberostar), and not sure why they wanted to check us in at the Royal Club since they claimed it was full and we could not upgrade to it. Our room was "not ready" so we had to come back at 3pm for our room keys. Wasn't an issue as we headed to the buffet. We got our keys at 3pm only to find that we were being placed on the ground floor. If you are on the ground or second floor of any of their buildings, prepare to hear every toilet flush, every shower, every suitcase and every step of your neighbours above. Luckily we asked to be moved up, and managed to be in a second floor room with quieter top floor neighbours. Emma, the concierge was very quick and helpful to find us a room, and extremely understanding of our concerns. All week, the single lunch buffet they have on site was sparse in comparison to the immense selection we had at Iberostar. Not only was it sparse in selection, it was sparse in quantity. Once whatever dish was finished, it generally was not replenished for the duration of the meal. Speaking of sparse, the staff on site seemed to not only be sparse, but not eager to greet you as they did at Iberostar. Almost every single time we went to a restaurant (breakfast, lunch and dinner) we had to wait a good 5 - 10 minutes before being seated because there was no host (and no line up). One time at lunch, there was a good 30 - 40 person line up for the buffet because the host was not only seating people, she was clearing tables and serving drinks. Breakfast and lunch are very bland and repetitive - so if you are looking for just peanut butter and toast, or stale home fries and soggy eggs, you will be content. At breakfast, the omelet station is generally left unattended, only managed to have eggs made fresh twice because no one was there, even after standing around waiting for someone to arrive. Rooms are nice, but odd that the closet and safe is inside the bathroom. Tiles are particularly slippery when wet so beware! No fun towel art or kind notes from the cleaning staff, and generally they take a very long time to get to your room. There isn't a big traditional theatre as most resorts showcase for evening performances, just a big empty square with plastic chairs. The grounds are lush and beautiful with iguanas and coaties. Beach is not as well maintained as most resorts I have been to. Garbage and plastic cups are discarded and not cleared as quickly. There appeared to be only one staff member asking to bring you drinks, as well as only one bar to get drinks from for the beach and pool next to the single pool at the resort. There is an adult pool too, but we are more ocean swimmers than pool. We were there mainly for the diving, but always enjoy dressing up and eating like kings on vacation. Although the diving was incredible, we were disappointed with the dining experience at the resort. It is possible that they were understaff, however, we will most likely not be returning to Occidentals anywhere due to this experience.