My family and I were supposed to stay at the resort for two nights. Apon arrival we were greeted with horrible service. First our room was not ready for another three hours and I was going to leave my laptop with the bellhop who said it would be safe in a backroom. About and hour later I found all of my luggage outside at the entrance just sitting there. The pool was absolutely DISCUSTING it was soo dirty that you could not see the peoples feet inside the pool. The room was not bad and pretty spacious. After the first night we decided to go to the Don Cesar right down the street a MUCH better hotel.

I too had a 71 dollar charge to my account for the waterslide and had it taken off of my bill. I was also charged 850 bucks for absolutely nothing. It was finally removed from my credit card today. We also had an air conditioner leaking all over the bathroom floor which was fixed by the second day. The area is old so I believe they do the best that they can considering the age of the facilities. The decor is very cute and clean. The staff was always nice and there was plenty of them. I'm sure their employee wage expense is outrageously high. They provided many activities to keep the guest busy. The view is spectacular and the beach is extremely clean. It is very expensive to stay here, but I do believe it is near being worth it compared to the other hotels in the area. Although, it was very crowded during our stay. I would probably stay again and I do recommend it to others.

This hotel has a "Faux Disney Pirates" theme that children probably find great - large plastic fish and animal decorations, paddle boats, trampolines and bungee activities and a kids club for crafts and pool sports. The room has a microwave and kitchen- like set up in one coner so you could do light snacks/breakfasts if need be and a small shop on site sells deli foods and frozen items. A family trying to stretch a budget would find these things helpful - and it is nice to be able to make tea or coffee or popcorn in your room regardless of your age! However, If you are an adult and have stayed in relatively luxe hotels this is not the place for you- If you want a room that does not smell like fish and french fries (exhaust fans from various restaurants are seemingy everywhere) and face the parking lot, you will be on the hook for a room upgrade, if you want to use a beach lounge chair, you are on the hook for a resort fee, internet access is extra $$ and the business center is primitive. Room decor is vibrant bordering on hysterical- oversized orange, purple and green tropical prints. Restaurants on site are mediocre and there are few options within walking distance of the hotel. The sister hotel - the Sandpiper is a better choice - nicer facilities and the same beach.

TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort, Saint Pete Beach, Florida
June 5th, 2006

My Wife and I checked in at the TradeWinds Island Grand on June 18th, and checked
out June 24. Out suite was located a few feet from the beautiful white beach
sand with its own ground level patio complete with chasel lounge, patio table and umbrella. The patio was separated from a brick walkway by a beautiful row of flowers and a 12 inch brick wall. The walkway was used by resort guest and visitors.

Close your eyes and see yourself sitting on your own patio, the smell of beautiful florida flowers, the ocean breeze, beautiful and friendly people smiling and waving as they walked past your patio, a complete and courteous resort staff to pamper you. Get the picture? Our one bedroom suite was clean, beautifully decorated and equipped. Food was great and restaurant staff were always competant and made us feel welcome and relaxed.

Our outstanding vacation started with our reservationist Liz (only name I know) with her friendly and can-do attitude, the registration staff who had everything ready for us and ended with an express chechout assisted by the conciere. The price was very competitive. We are now planning our return visit to the TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort. Thank you for allowing me to comment on our wonderful vacation.