| rev:text
| - We ended up here randomly.
Didn't actively select the hotel at all.
We had gone went through one of those discounted services that do not reveal the name of your hotel until you have confirmed your stay.
After booking our stay and then checking out the reviews on Yelp, Google and a couple of other services, we were terrified. No, seriously... Terr-i-fied.
Most concerning were the reviews that highlighted the hotel's lack luster decor, it's high pricing and shabby service. We also were a bit concerned about those that noted that the hotel charged cards without permission.
But, alas, it was too late. We had already made the purchase and couldn't negate on the deal.
Upon arrival, we were swiftly greeted by the valet, who gave us all the instructions we needed about the self-parking facility.
The check in process was a cinch. All told, took about five minutes. As we were checking in, though, I couldn't help over hear two other guests complaining about something with three staffers. I got the feeling that our attended was trying to get us checked in quickly so we could be on our way. So, in that process, we didn't learn anything about the hotel or the surrounding area.
No matter.
We went to our room right away, and checked out the place. It's huge. Massive. At one point I did get the feeling that this was one of those converted apartment complexes. In some areas it definitely has the feeling of being an apartment complex.
The pool was my absolute favorite part. The main pool, that is. It's huge. Open 24 hours, and with the greatest death that is at something like 8 feet, I fell in love instantly with this pool. It was quite busy during the day, but it's slowed down after dark. At some point there was a large party crowd that showed up, but they pretty much kept to themselves and had a great time. There are also have bathrooms just off the side of the pool, which is wonderful! Nothing like having to trek it all the way back up to your room when you have to take care of yourself.
But this place pegs itself as a resort.
To be perfectly honest: I don't see what they mean about being a resort. Yes, on site you will find restaurants, banquet rooms, a full spa, multiple swimming pools, casitas, etc.... All the makings of a resort.
But it doesn't feel like a resort. Then again, "What is the definition of a resort?" really is a question you have to ask yourself before staying here. For me, when I think "resort" I think of places like the Ritz Carlson, Omni, high end Marriott hotels and those elite fancies in the likes of Napa and Boston.
I imagine huge, king-size beds that swallow you whole as you lay in them. I think about cascading waterfalls and cobblestone walkways. I think about attendants walking around making sure that your champagne is filled. I think about personalized services and activities, a full menu of choices to spend with the resort's leading experts. I think about massive, expansive grounds with gorgeous greens and walkways for glorious moonlit walks. And more, so much more.
But this? It just feels like a fancier version of a reasonably priced hotel. A budget resort for those of us who are money-conscious.
In our room, there is a unit attached to the wall that provides cool air and heat. The bed was comfy but not amazing. Overall, the decor is somewhat dated. It doesn't have that sharp feel to it.
And they charge for just about everything. There were snacks and mini wine bottles in the bedroom that cost you anywhere between $3 and $20 or so. Also in the room was a cute little goodie bag with lotion and sunblock, but that cost $20!
Yes, the resort part seemed missing.
But did I love it here? Yes! Would I stay here again? Absolutely. In fact, I wish I were there right now...
|