Just returned from staying at the Blanco & had a great time. I did a timeshare exchange for a Monday to Monday check in. We actually arrived on a Sunday, booking an extra nights stay. I have to say that check in was a breeze. The front desk (Ray) was very helpful. He put us in a unit where we didn't have to move & had the entire unit for our 8-night stay. We had a one bedroom. It had 2 queen beds, which were very comfortable. It was myself & my girlfriend. We got away without the husbands. The resort was very clean and safe. The entire staff was always accomodating. I can't complain about anyone there. They were all friendly and helpful. We ate lunch a few days at the resort (prices above average) but good. We stayed for dinner one night (Lobster & Shrimp night). Food was great! We also had 1 breakfast there & ate the breakfast buffet at the sister resort Rose. (great for the money about $16 USD). The only complaint I have is no TV's in the bedrooms but after a long day who needs TV anyways?
We walked into town most nights only about 6 blocks. The best way to do it is to go through the gates & use the entrance way to the hotel next door, Melia. They have a paved sidewalk--don't use the unpaved "alley-street" that they'll give you directions for. If you do plan to walk, flip flops only, if you wear heals your feet will kill you. A taxi ride is only $6.
The vendors are a little annoying if you go to the beach but we loved the quietness of the pool. We sat on the steps & read books while lounging in the pool all day long & sipping our Miami Vice (frozen Pina Colidas topped with Strawberry Daiquiris). I would return here in a minute the location was great. Their sister resort (Rose - next door) is a little bigger & has a cafe, boutique. We also took the shuttle to their other resort on the Pacific side (Sunset Beach & Spa). We had a massage & used their spa -- Highly recommended. Although you can't swim on the beach over there you have use of their pools. We sat around the pool for awhile & than enjoyed a martini at the martini bar overlooking the pacific before returning back to Blanco. What a great day!
Like I said I'd go back here in a minute. Although I loved the Sunset Beach & Spa resort it seems isolated that I'd much prefer staying at Blanco (or Rose). It's much more convenient to downtown.
If you're looking for good Italian try San Giovanni's (across from Cabo Wabo--back side)..great veal dishes. For seafood, Matazlin --no atmosphere & much more local place, but great seafood. try the seafood platter for 2. You can't beat it. We also ate pizza at La Trattoria one night, which was quite enjoyable.
One other thing worth noting, I really miss my view. We were on the 5th floor & every night and every morning we sat on the balcony.. There were always ships, boats & a few days cruise ships were in & docked where you could see them. It was so beautiful just to sit & have a cup of coffee in the morning. The Flamingos could get a bit annoying (they are loud).





