After visiting other sandals resorts, our visit here was a huge disappointment. Concierge services are poor when compared to regular hotels front desk service. We had to repeatedly ask for room items that were to be provided. Our room keys stopped working and i felt like i was an inconvenience asking for a new key. Definitely not recommending this resort or returning. Compared to other sandals, well, there is no comparison. The wait staff, bartenders, etc should be giving lessons to concierge team and management. They were all very polite, friendly and helpful. Did not speak with any other guests that were happy or impressed.

This was my first Sandals experience. It will also be my last. I am taking the time to write this review from my hotel room because I would hate to see another person be duped the way we were. Here is what our experience has been like...

ARRIVAL:
Airport transfer service was fine, very similar to one of those shared shuttles from the suburbs. We had to make an additional stop and wait for other couples and we were all packed in rather tightly (and illegally) but we arrived quickly at the resort. Upon arrival our group was directed to sit in the lobby. I believe the idea is to have you relax, but the majority of people seemed agitated. It felt condescending to be directed to "remain seated" and we all joked that we felt like we were in school again. We are fully capable adults- why couldn't we go up to the desk and check in? Instead we had to sit awkwardly in a group with people we didn't know.

FOOD:
The resort leaves A LOT to be desired, and is extremely misrepresented on the website. 10 restaurants? I have only seen 4, and one is a pub. The kicker is, the restaurants are almost NEVER open, especially for lunch. Many of them you must make reservations for, but you have to wait until you arrive on the resort premises to do so. We tried moments after we checked-in (before we even got to our room), only to be told that NOTHING was available. Are you serious? The food we have been eating is concerning- for lack of a better word. This morning I ate eggs and I swear they were not eggs. My hamburger last night didn't taste like meat. You get the idea. In my opinion, all inclusive isn't worth the money if you are worried every time you put the food in your mouth. The drinks are unlimited, and not watered down. This was the only good thing about the dining plan.

WATER SPORTS and FACILITIES:
I haven't had the opportunity to use any of the water sports because they have been closed every day I've been here. Yup, that's right. The hot tubs are warm, at best. I usually take baths that are hotter. The pools were generally clean and pretty large. Nothing extraordinary for a resort. There is hardly a beach. Considering I am a beach bum I was really disappointed.

REFUND POLICY:
We tried to leave after our first day here. The strict policy (no matter how much you complain or argue) is that you receive a credit, good for 24 months. Why would I want to come back to Sandals? It's also non-transferrable so I wouldn't have been able to sell it. After my first day I was ready to leave and go to Atlantis. Oh well.

Overall, I feel like I am staying at a retirement community in Florida, complete with shuffleboard and mid-day bingo games. Remember couples retreat when all the main character wants to do is go to the "fun" island across the way? Don't be that person. Don't be me. Just go to Atlantis.

This Sandal hotel and the majority of the staff are first class. We went to this Sandals hotel in May 2010 and it was excellant!! Regretably Hurrican Sandie has not helped!! and we were dissapointed this time, even taking into consideration the damage the Hurrican caused. Most of the staff are doing there best to ensure everyone had a good stay.
I had several concerns, not complaints which I put in writing, none of which were acknowledged or delt with by the Hotel Manager.
My wife and I have stayed in various Sandals Hotels in the past, and will book again, but not the Royal Bahamian. It is obvious from the reviews and comments made by others on vacation that there is a lack of Management and for a few staff, a lack of training. A Manager who cannot be bothered to respond to any guest who has concerns is a poor manager! One thatcannot respond to Platinum Selct member who over the years has spent a considrable amount of money is a joke!
Sandals have always set the standard for all inclusive Holidays, I hope this one off experience is not repeated on my next Holiday with them as it will be my last. There are at least two major competitors who are catching Sandal and there usual high quality standards fast. They will not get a Second chance with Karen and I

Compared to other sandals this resort is very poor. Food, service, cleanliness and friendliness of staff very very poor. Resort faces north so hardly and rooms get the sun. Complaints not dealt with. Don't stay here go to Atlantis