Just returned from an 8 day stay at this hotel complex and for us, the negative comments in some reviews previously prompts us too say how terribly unfortunate you must have been.

The room (we stayed in the junior suite....bottom of the accommodation rung) was more than adequate and found it to be very spacious with everything just as it said on the can label. The balcony overlooked the jungle, facing West (great sunsets) with a table and two rattan chairs. There was no bath but the walk in wet room was terrific with a great shower, his and hers sinks and a hair drier. The mini bar was restocked every day as were the towels and the sheets every second day.

The resort itself is huge by British standards and takes about 15 mins easy walking from the beach to the main facilities of the buffets, bar, shops and sports bar. There is a transport system which runs approx. every 10-15 minutes which will drop off or pick up at any stage upon its route from the beach to the main reception areas. The transport to Playa del Carmen however must be booked before 11.00am for the following day so don't leave it 'till the last few days of you holiday as you may well be disappointed due to its popularity.

The themed restaurants can be booked up to 3 days in advance but we found the buffets to be excellent in their own different themed evening each night with a great choice of differing foods and of course you can eat as much as you like. Bear in mind though that this is not fine dining but catering on a mass basis. That said, we didn't experience one meal that we wouldn't have been happy to pay for in any restaurant we have been to. There are two further buffets near the beach plus on the beach itself there is a bar and cook shack which serves hot dogs, hamburgers and a further different dish each day cooked on a huge paella pan.

The beach is planted with coconut trees to provide shade plus there are rush covered umbrellas also. We were told at reception that the resort was 90-95% full but there was more than adequate beach beds to flop down on. To gain access to the beach there is a small bridge over a swampy area in which lives a small crocodile whilst on the beach there are coaties (a small 4 legged bushy coated animal) scavaging for left overs.

The staff have been commented upon so much in previous reviews and we must say, they were absolutely wonderful. Nothing was too much trouble for them as they genuinely want you to return again. Tipping is entirely up to yourself and doesn't make one iota of difference to the service but if you wish, have a roll of single dollar bills as I am certain you will want to give them a few bob as they are so good. They are all Mexican as well so you really get the feeling of being in Mexico, not just another resort with an eclectic mix of staff from all over the world.

We can honestly say that this is the very best example of all inclusive holidays one could wish for so go ahead and book with confidence and we hope you get as much out of it as we did.

We stayed for a week last year during the summer. For its value, it is a wonderful five star hotel. The property is huge and very well kept. The service is also excellent. Overall, we really enjoyed our stay and would be happy to return. If anything, here is a small list of suggestions/considerations:

- Although almost everything is inclusive, I felt that a few areas were quite restrictive. The first is the buffet. It is open for the 3 meals/day, but only during certain times. If you miss breakfast (or any other meal.. But breakfast was the most frustrating one to miss), the only place that can serve food is this tiny/dark snack bar, serving burgers a fries. Secondly, the pools are all closed at 8pm. Again, for a resort, it makes the experience feel limiting since 95% of the time is spent at the resort.
- if you are able to, make sure that shuttle transportation is included in your package. A cab ride from the airport can cost up to 90$ USD (one way). If you are without included transportation, make sure to bargain with the cab/shuttle services - they present you with unreasonably high "flat rates".
- take a trip to playa del Carmen. If you book right, I believe the hotel has a free shuttle service.

Our agent said was just an additional restaurant, so we did not book platinum. Platinum gives you internet access, a private pool/beach. and is closer to the beach (a long way to the main compound however). Otherwise food/drinks the same. Wait staff are attentive. Drinks brand name unless it’s busy then you need to ask. There is a bar 24/7. The resort is huge, 3 actually. Sunset is quiet, Riviera, a mirror of Sunset, has the nightclub, theater and most restaurants, Yucatan adult only with no benefits I could see. The resort is a mile in from the road, so public transportation a hassle.Food at the breakfast and lunch buffets were good and items varied daily. Dinner, the one time we ate buffet, (10pm arrival) was tasteless. Mexican the best restaurant, salad/appetizer bar a meal in itself. A plus was the ability to book 3 nights at a time. Entertainment cruise ship caliber.

The property is beautiful and well maintained. The staff is super polite, friendly, and helpful. The resort is huge and there are many activities and places to eat so you never have to even leave the premises. Definitely make reservations for the restaurants as soon as you arrive. My fiance and I had an amazing time and definitely plan on visiting again with friends and family!