NessaNYC
November 23, 2024
As someone who has traveled extensively, I had high expectations for this resort given its price tag of over $2,000 per night. Unfortunately, while it has some bright spots, this property falls far short of the luxury it promises. What once might have been a 5-star paradise is now a tired, outdated shell in desperate need of a full renovation. Pros • Beautiful ocean: The natural surroundings are stunning, offering picture-perfect views. • Heated family pool: The family pool is warm and inviting, though the adult pool isn’t heated. • Friendly staff: The staff were a highlight of our stay. They were attentive, remembered us, and went above and beyond to salvage what could’ve been a disastrous experience. • Thoughtful touches: Complimentary sunscreen by the pool, a beach bag in the room, nightly maid gifts, and a stellar deep tissue massage added some luxury to the stay. • Convenience of gift shops: Having two on-site gift shops was a nice touch. Cons • Outdated facilities: The entire property is rundown. Poolside cushions are ripped, the family pool is old, and the wood accents are poorly maintained (often just painted over rather than properly restored). Rooms and walkways are in dire need of updates. • Limited dining options: Only one restaurant is open each night, and while they try to accommodate dietary preferences, the limited choices and reliance on room service are not ideal for a luxury resort. • Poor landscaping: The grounds are unkempt, with overgrown weeds and no vibrant flowers. It feels neglected rather than lush. • Cumbersome arrival process: Getting to the resort is a headache—over an hour and a half involving customs, taxis, boats, and golf carts. It’s exhausting and not at all streamlined. • Pricey food and drinks: The resort charges exorbitant rates for food and beverages, adding to the frustration. • Lack of soundproofing: Expect to hear your neighbors and operational noise from surrounding areas. • Disappointing views: The advertised “ocean view” was underwhelming— it’s a 5 minute walk from the beach and you can barely see the ocean over the canopy of the trees, save your money and go for a garden view instead. • Bugs: The property is swarming with flies, and I left covered in itchy bites. This is unacceptable for a high-end resort. • Accessibility issues: The long walks to the pool and beach are not suitable for guests with mobility challenges. • Basic toiletries: The refillable shampoo and conditioner dispensers felt cheap and unsanitary for a resort at this price point. Final Thoughts While the staff’s excellent service and a few thoughtful amenities kept this from being a total disaster, the overall experience was hugely disappointing. This resort is far from its former glory and doesn’t justify its exorbitant rates. Until significant renovations are made, I can’t recommend this property for anyone seeking a true luxury experience.