Being HDM owners for 12 years, we have noticed the decline in fine details. In our opinion the resort has gotten too big, considering the development since we bought. We much prefer the quiet ambiance of years ago. Now the resort seems crowded when we visit. Despite this, the property remains our favorite destination in Cabo, and we much prefer HDM to our other timeshare ownership in town.

Our room was ready for check in when we arrived at 2:30. Staff were very helpful (as usual) in bringing our luggage to the room. This year we stayed in building 14, which has several flights of stairs coming from the pool/beach. Not an easy walk for a person needing a knee replacement. The garden view was an improvement over last years unit in building 13. That building (13) looked out to the lobby. I felt always on display. This years room was in excellent maintenance, and the maid service was exceptional. The room was missing some kitchen items that we had available last year. Apparently HDM is no longer checking inventory on rooms.

The beach lounge chairs have new umbrellas. The pool area was clean and wait staff was prompt and polite. No problem getting pool side seats for a party of 5, however I did venture to the pool deck early each morning to watch the awesome sunrise. I noticed most people arrived around 10 am. No problem with claimed and unused chairs either as other guests have mentioned. I did witness one time the pool staff removed towels on 4 prime seats to make room for a new group at noon. Our favorite is the activities pool, however it is loud and has water splashing from activities. If you are looking for a peaceful pool, this one is not for you. We do look forward to the new pool being completed, however we question whether there really will be one. The area for the new pool looks exactly like it did two years ago, just a bare dirt lot. One experience at the newest pool located near the convention center was inappropriate. Fortunately my husband intervened before our 13 year old witness the situation. Needless to say, this was our second such episode at this pool at night, and I guess we will avoid that pool at night now. This pool has now earned a not-so-nice nick name.

Regarding timeshare sales, we did attend the owners breakfast, but we were not pressured into buying. Hint to non-owners, you can do much better buying resale on the Internet!

We ate on site one time at De Cortez. The food was excellent, but expensive and slow service. I believe the total bill for 5 was near $290. We prefer to shop at Costco on our arrival, and prepare our own meals. If you are not a Costco member, there is a new Walmart, with excellent fresh fruit/veggies, and a City Club in Cabo, all about 10 minutes away.

The beach vendors are polite. They are not allowed into the resort property. If you want to see the goods, you need to go to the beach. My daughter had her hair braided for $15. I also bought 6 anklets for $15 total. Be sure to barter the prices. If you will make a trip to Medono beach, similar items can be found with better pricing.

Regarding laundry, there is a laundry mat on site. The tokens are expensive. We discovered laundry mats in town will do your laundry for you and the price is very reasonable. They did a phenomenal job removing oil stains from the ATV excursion! Prepare to wait up to 6 hours for the laundry to be completed. If you rent a car, this might be your best option. Just drop it off when you go into town, and pick it up on your way back.

My husband took a baja ATV trip for 1/2 day. They picked him up at the resort and delivered him back. It was his first time, and he will certainly return with our teenage daughters next year. We always recommend the sunset cruise. This year was no exception, and we were satisfied as always. The concierge is very helpful in planning events.

The old iguana by the pool that has been a resident since we became members was not seen this year. We did see some younger rather skittish ones near our unit though. We also noticed an overflow of cats by our building. They were not there last year. Many guests were feeding them regularly, so I am sure they will be happy to stay. The younger cats were friendly, but the adult cats were rather feral. Regarding animals, I saw several dogs on the beach and at the pool that belonged to guests staying in the timeshare. I was under the impression dogs were not allowed. I guess as long as the owners clean up after them, I am not opposed to them being there. I definitely was not offended by them, nor did I hear any barking.

We cant wait for next years visit, and we are already making plans. Accordingly, our unit is already reserved!