http://beta.tripreviews.com/ TripReviews - be in the know before you go! Thu, 09 Sep 2010 04:42:18 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/images/tripreviews_logo_white.gif http://beta.tripreviews.com http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-nayarit/riu-vallarta
The only cons would be the hard beds and the quality and limited selection of alcohol. Children are not allowed at the adult pool and this rule is strictly enforced. Having teen aged children we spent our days at the beach or at the kids pool. Most of the daily entertainment took place at the adult pool so we felt left out of this opportunity. I know we have experienced better day time activities at other resorts. This is a family friendly resort but I felt more activities could be provided for the kids.

The management of the resort are always visible and helpful, wandering about and ensuring their guests are looked after. This is a clean, well managed resort that I would gladly return to.]]> Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:58:13 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421486 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-nayarit/royal-decameron-complex
We stayed in block one, which is beach front, on the third floor. The view was amazing. The only bad thing is the activities start up early in the morning, so it gets a little loud, but we didn't mind as we were usually up and around anyways. The room was large with two double beds, we thought we were getting a king, but we didn't mind. It's nice sometimes to have a bed all to yourself. Our travel mates had the room next door to us with a king and they found it quite comfortable. There are no room amenities like shampoo or conditioner, but I normally bring my own, so it didn't matter. There is a bottle of water and a hair dryer which is all I need. The towels were clean and fresh each day and the resort also provided large pool towels to use as well. We didn’t use the safe in our room, we shared the safe with our travel mates. It would have been nice to have a fridge to keep our water cold, but compared to the temperature outside, 25C in the room was cold. The air conditioner was a life saver and it would have been unbearable with out it. We didn't really spend a whole lot of time in our room anyways.
The resort itself is very beautiful and very colourful. The grounds are well maintained and the five pool areas were always clean. I don't think that an hour passed by when I didn't see someone cleaning water off the pool decks. The resort is quite big and sprawling with great sitting areas and all sorts of places to relax. The bars were always close at hand. We really loved the adult pool and the pool in the next complex over. The bartenders were very friendly and for the most part remembered all of our names. It also could have been because we tipped them well too. We did go down to the beach a few times and I can understand how some people could be miffed about all of the vendors on the beach. Just ignore them if you don't want to talk to them or say 'No, gracias' and they usually leave you alone. We however bought quite a few things from them and it's one the few places you can actually buy real silver that has the 925MEX stamps. We did some shopping just off the resort at the stores and they had the best prices and you didn't have to haggle if you don't like haggling for price. Just off the resort there is a place called Manuel’s T-Shirt shop, he accepts Canadian Tire money for goods in his store, so bring it if you got it. There is a really great art gallery just off the resort that had some amazing pieces of art that I would have bought, but just had no way to transport them safely home. There was also vendors on the resort at night with tables, which is very convenient if you didn't like buying from the people on the beach.

I have nothing bad to say about this resort and I would go back in a heart beat. Please don't take one persons bad experience and judge the whole resort by it. If you had a bad experience I am truly sorry, and I hope you have a better experience next time. We just went with the mentality that we were going to have fun no matter what. Our fun was also thanks to Emanuel and Alejandra, the bartenders at the lounge who feed our constant need for Funky Monkeys, Bloody Mary’s and Ron Carmesi’s. In our opinion we got a 4 1/2 star experience at a 4 star resort and we would highly recommend staying at the Royal Decameron Resort.]]> Sun, 29 Aug 2010 23:01:49 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421483 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-maya/grand-sirenis
Overall we had a wonderful stay. The main buffets (which are open to both the Riviera and Mayan beach residents) were good and there was always plenty of choice. There was also a buffet near one of the main pools (on the Mayan side) and although we did not eat there it seemed to have good although limited choices for lunch (good for those who did not want to trek all the way to the main buffet). There was also a beach restaurant that served drinks and some good barbecue options. We did not partake in the a la carte restaurants as we had an infant with us but for the week that we were there the a la carte restaurants (all of which are in the same location) were full of people. The best features were the coffee bar and ice cream bar. Our two older kids enjoyed the ice creams and frappucinos.

The beach was really good but rocky. Even with the rocks we all enjoyed swimming and snorkelling. Just bring good water shoes! There was always a palappa available and the beach waitresses worked hard at ensuring that everyone was well hydrated.The night entertainment was allright. We took in the Lion King one evening and a rock show on old Queen songs. The entertainers put in a good effort and the older kids were happy with both shows. The shows do start late (9:30 pm). We spent a morning touring the ruins at Tulum and that was a good highlight of the week. For the money spent it was a good holiday. The staff are hardworking and polite and always willing to listen or help.

Last thing - the trip from the airport to the resort was a good two hours.]]> Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:56:22 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421487 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/playa-del-carmen/grand-occidental-xcaret Ask for CARLOS from Barracuda dive shop at towel hut near small pool-he will provide invaluable information on tours and prices.Take ATV and underwater cave tour-AMAZING!!!

LOCK YOUR SUIT CASE UP BEFORE LEAVING VANCOUVER-HAD EXPENSIVE CAMCORDER STOLEN OUT OF BAG-MOST LIKELY HAPPENED AT CANCUN AIRPORT!!!!!]]> Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:13:48 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421480 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/bucerias/royal-decameron-complex Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:17:19 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421482 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/los-cabos/riu-santa-fe Sun, 22 Aug 2010 18:26:36 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421477 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/los-cabos/presidente-intercontinental-los-cabos Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:54:05 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421473 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/cancun/great-parnassus-resort The public areas and inside our room were very clean, not one bug in sight. we had a deluxe double
beds room. The bedding was comfortable. The bathroom shower and toilet were functioning well.
Remember one thing. This is a family vacation resort. so there are many kids around. At night, there could be a little noisy.
The food in general were good but too salty for my taste. The thing i liked about was we did not have to make reservation or formal dress code to any dinner restaurants.
Their staffs were very friendly. They also wanted us to joint their RCI ( TIME SHARE ) program.
The beach area had a lot of sea seeds and i did not see any staff cleaning up like the next door hotel. The entertainment team at night were not that good, could be improved. We would come back to this hotel.]]> Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:05:42 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421470 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/san-jose-del-cabo/royal-solaris-los-cabos Thu, 12 Aug 2010 21:56:23 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421467 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/cancun/aqua L.K]]> Thu, 12 Aug 2010 20:35:41 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421466 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/playa-del-carmen/grand-riviera-princess
Although it was a fair walk to the ocean, it was worth it - the beach was very clean and the ocean had a sandy bottom - yes, a few rocks but no biggie. On the downside, they need to have more palapas at the beach and pools - we had to get up at 6:30 every morning to snag one or wait until after 3:00 ... bummer.

Overall, though, we were pleased with this resort and wouldn't hesitate to go back.]]> Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:01:51 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421465 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-nayarit/riu-vallarta
1. First night there......................food in the fold out bed to which there fix was to pick the food off and recover. Not to go and replace the mattress but cover the already stained bed...........really.

2. Cleaned room left no towels one day.

3. No toilet paper one day.

4. Where not allowed to book a meal with 20 people.....................was told the catered to the Mexicans..................again really.

5. No ATM.............................in a five star.

6. Room doors left open by cleaning staff.

7. Food lines looked like chow lines at a pig farm.

8. At times very rude staff and dealing with the assistant manager was never a good experience.

9. When the manager tells you your travel agent booked the wrong time at the wrong hotel what can you say.

10. Watched as staff changed over buffet food by grabbing trays off the buffet table as people where trying to get food.

11. Many people sittiing in main louge area having drinks at 12 when it stopped serving all lights went off.........................while about 20 people where sitting there..................I guess that means it was time to leave.

If it was only me I would not have written anything but there was more than 30 people with us........................sadly they had same if not more stories. Does the RIU care no why should they as the money rolls in..................never mine and never again............I will alos have words with my travel agent. 5 Star no maybe 3 on a good day.....................
]]> Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:54:27 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421457 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-maya/barcelo-maya-colonial
ROOMS: We had rooms 6653 and 6654 which were adjoining and in a great location; close to the lobby and buffet and were also quiet. All of our rooms requests were fulfilled so it never hurts to ask. The rooms are lovely! The beds are very comfortable compared to the resorts we've stayed at & are a good size with a day bed, sitting area for 2, good balcony and all the standards such as in room safe, TV etc etc. We really enjoyed the in bathroom shampoo, conditioner and body wash dispensers as they came in handy. The shower was always hot enough and always offered enough water pressure. We did not use the toiletries offered in the bathroom as part of prestige class but we did appreciate having access in case we forgot something at home.

BEACH: It is wide with lots of loungers. Overall the sand is quite soft but there are some rough areas with dead coral that washed up due to Hurricane Alex from a month or so ago. The water has a good mixture of a soft, white sandy bottom to enjoy the clear, warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean as well as a rocky area that is great for snorkeling. We saw big sea urchins, 2/3 schools of fish so we loved being able to snorkel right off of the beach. It's so nice to be able to go swimming and there are fish right around you! You have access to snorkelling gear located down the beach but you do need to put down a deposit of $20. As long as you return it in the same way you got nothing is charged. We highly reccommend it! Lots of loungers to be had and we did not see too many people claiming a lounger & then disappearing for the day. That being said, there are tonnes of loungers & we never had a problem finding some for ourselves. Down the beach you also have access to peddleboats which is part of the all inclusive. For a fee you can rent jet skis and go para sailing too.

FOOD: The buffet was good with a large selection. We found the bread, cheese, chicken, beef, salsa, soup especially good. There is something for everyone and please keep in mind they are catering to a large group of people with different tastes. In the morning they had omlette stations where you can pick your ingredients and they cook it in front of you as well as a made to order pasta station at night. Oh, the wine at dinner was horrible. We joked they made it in the morning and served it at night as it was like grape juice without any flavour. The buffet at the beach and next to the pool bar was great, fresh pasta, fresh salsa etc etc. We did the steakhouse and oriental a la carte restaurants and really enjoy both. They were a nice change to the buffets. Men are required to wear long pants and close toed shoes. They are strict about this and they will turn you away if you do not comply. As soon as you arrival book you're a la cartes through the concierge located beside the front desk and hopefully you will get good times. We booked when we arrived and were stuck either 530/6pm or 930/10pm at night. Eating when it's hot and humid at 530pm is not our preference.

PRESTIGE CLASS OFFERED BY TRANSAT: The concierge service was good but we did have to wait a while to be helped. We did get a fruit plate and a small bottle of booze in our room upon arrival. We liked the robes and slippers and used them after our showers. One thing that could have been clearer was what type of drinks we were entitled too. Prestige class says international drinks. Well this does not include whisky scotch, martinis etc. Really, the entire Barcelo Maya Colonial section is prestige class and we did not feel like we had access to any higher end drinks than anyone else.

Overall, we had an excellent family vacation and would recommend the hotel; especially for families. There is mini golf, lots of the typical activities part of an all inclusive and there is an excellent waterpark area for younger kids with hoses, slides etc.

The pools and grounds were very well maintained. The pools were clear and were typically very warm by the afternoon.

The service was good so please remember to tip. Many of the people working at the resorts have left their families behind in order get ahead. A couple of bucks here and there when you receive good service is appreciated and does go a long way!! Consistenly we receive better service in the Mayan than we do in Vancouver and I think North Americans have a lot to learn when it comes to being gracious and providing service in restaurants etc.

If you do not have a good time at the Colonial I think you need to take a step back and stop whining. Nothing is ever perfect but remember, you're in a different country where the staff typically speak Mayan as their 1st language as they are doing their very best to help many of which work very long hours.

Overall we had an excellent family vacation and have no hesitation to suggest this property to our friends and family.

At times the drink were a little weak but you can easily correct this by asking them to make them strong & they will happily oblige. The margaritas were good and we appreciated the Corona on tap as well as Modelo beer.

*Remember to wear sunscreen! It is hot and you will burn in record time
*Book tours, there is a wide selection and something for everyone and will really enhance your vacation. We did game fishing, Xel-ha and snorkelling with sea turtles and swimming in cenote on this trip & all of us loved everyone moment of it

]]> Fri, 23 Jul 2010 10:17:08 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421451 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/ixtapa/barcelo-ixtapa Wed, 21 Jul 2010 09:50:04 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421444 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-maya/blue-bay-grand-esmeralda
When we arrived, we were quickly checked in efficiently. The first room we had, the air conditioning was broken. In the morning I went to the front desk and were offered to check out three other rooms and let them know which we were choosing to change to. I was impressed.

The food was quite good for an all-inclusive buffet. Certainly not gourmet, but quite tasty and the selection was great. Would highly recommend the Italian ala carte restuarant.

The pools and beach were immaculate.

Would not hesitate to return to this fabulous all-inclusive resort!]]> Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:51:04 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421442 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/cancun/golden-parnassus-resort I made some new friends (gest and employe) and plan to go back next march. I do a few trips every year and the Golden parnassus is the hotel I recomand the most to all my friends. I definitly rate this hotel 5 or more (out of 5).]]> Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:46:22 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421441 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-maya/riu-palace-mexico Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:11:21 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421440 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/riviera-nayarit/royal-decameron-complex Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:05:58 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421439 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/ixtapa/park-royal-ixtapa Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:08:26 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421438 http://beta.tripreviews.com/hotels/Mexico/los-cabos/royal-solaris-los-cabos if you go for the spa treatment on the beach most of the reviews say go to the pink tent but our group found the white tent beside them to be more professional offered better services for the same price( hot stones,aroma therapy etc) and a better overall massage for the same price.]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:00:54 -0700 http://beta.tripreviews.com/review/421436