The good, bad and ugly
Let me start by saying we have stayed at many resorts. This is not a resort! It is a hotel. You are tagged by the bracelet upon arrival as at other resorts, but that just labels you as a non tipper to the staff. Did I hate the vacation? No.. It was very different than all inclusive resorts. We chose to make the best.. traveled with 3 children ( 6,9 and 11) They were happy with the beach and pool, so we tried to remember this trip was for them.
The rooms were old and dated. Ours didn't smell. We had 2 connecting rooms 908 and 909. Fantastic view of the only open pool and the beach. The room was cleaned every day. We took treats for the maid each day and she made sure we had extra water and clean towels.
If you tip the staff first they will give you great service, if you don't tip, don't expect anything but attitude.
Thankfully we had full access to the Wyndom(except the swim up bar) Every restaurant we ate at there was excellent. The buffet at the Radisson was dark and gloomy. The outside grill had few choices and ran out of things a lot. There was only 1 bar at the pool/beach due to the swim up pool being closed. Lines were usually long and you had to sign for every drink. (limit of 4 per check) They did deliver to the beach, drinks and food arrived faster with a tip.
The beach was unbelieveable!! During low tide you could walk out to the rocks. It was safe for the kids to swim and play without being knocked down by waves. The beach itself is great! Lots of room to play in the sand and always chairs. There are many many vendors. They can drive you crazy with the constant sales pitches, but a simple no thanks will keep them away for a while. (one guy, John Wayne the Duke will give you a better deal if you get him a beer)
Overall if you can gete past the dated decor and take advantage of the hotel next door it's a good deal. We look forward to returning after renovations. At the rate they are progressing it will be in about 5 years!! haha
We made several friends that made the trip more enjoyable. We could sit around and complain together. ( there was a lot of that)
Hi Mary, Clara, Daniel and Grandma!!