Grand Velas Riviera Maya - All Inclusive

Our trip was by no means stress free. Very unhappy! We booked our stay through a travel site. After having to pay for a taxi to and from the hotel, we were told they do not honor the free shuttle when you book through the travel sites. The hotel detail also indicated free WiFi, which apparently changed one month before our arrival, but we were not told of this change, so we had to pay for that out of pocket once there. I'd expect better from a 5 DIAMOND Hotel.

This trip was primarily for relaxing by the beach. If that's what you are looking for this place is it. Every morning a large crew of employees rakes and cleans the beach of all seaweed so the beaches are pristine and huge (no rows of lounge chairs here). Powder white sand and blue,warm water make the view from your room a pleasure. The spa is a must! Set back in the jungle not only are the massage therapists amazing but they have all these different hot/cold water treatments with clay, creams and conditioners. It is truly an experience you must do while there. Each person at the spa has an ear piece so you are always guided where to go next. The grounds here are beautiful. Some negatives -- you must get up early to save a lounge chair--there are plenty but it seems people reserve a lot and some never show up and the staff could do a better job of monitoring the situation. The food is very good here. You must make reservations in advance at the fancier restaurants and the meals are French Laundry-like and you may tire of it after 2 or 3 (we did two and that was enough). The bistro is more casual and serves delicious simple food. The staff is very sweet and tries hard but the butler service that they advertise for us did not exist but we really didn't need it. Also make sure you are aware of where you book at this resort. The Master Suites are not by the beach but in the lush jungle area which some people love--personally I go to Mexico to go to the beach but some people stayed there and loved the serenity. There are more mosquitoes in this area so beware if you are prone to being biten (I got bit about 5 times and we stayed by the beach in December--can't imagine what it would be like in the summer--bring some spray). There is an Adults only pool/hotel called the Ambassador Suites and a family pool/hotel called just Ambassador-all part of the Grand Velas. The adult pool was lovely and quiet if that is what you are looking for and about a block away is the children's pool (both huge and beautiful) that is lively and full of sounds of children having fun. Would definitely go back.

Great pool, really great service, people were super friendly.

Be sure and buy your transfer vouchers separately. Web site told us transfers were included, but they were not. Otherwise, beautiful, friendly resort with outstanding food and friendly service. Not much evening entertainment besides drinking at the bar. Definately a great experience overall.

fantastic. The pics on the internet don't do this hotel justice. Its beautiful overall. good food (small portions), good liquor. defenately will love to go back.

We are experienced travelers, and this was absolutely the nicest hotel we have ever stayed at. Food was of an amazing variety, fresh, and to suit all tastes. I even asked for, and received, items not on the menu, prepared as I requested. The staff was genuinely friendly and accomodating in every way. The beds were very, very comforatble, and the rooms overall elegant and clean with every amenity...cable, high speed internet, phone, room-for-two whirlpool bath, luxury toiletries and skin care products. The surrounding area was secure and beautifully manicured. Beach sand was white powder. Staff did a good job organizing soccer, volleyball, pool games, etc. The 10 minute ride was free to Playa del Carmen, and return taxi only $10 USD.

Absolutely Amazing Service Great Location & Pool

Wasn there for our honeymoon and it could not have been any better. Perfect weather, unbelievable resort and top first class service!

We made use of the spa and were easily shuttled there; while the experience was absolutely grand and relaxing. The rooms were refreshed twice a day and we felt pampered more than any hotel and trip we have ever had in the past. Resort was spotless and continually maintenanced through out the day. We would give it a six star rating.

This place HAD IT ALL! From the moment we arrived we were welcomed by the friendliest staff I have ever had the pleasure to meet on a vacation. The hotel is stunning. The architecture, the decor, the landscaping... Not a detail missed. I felt like I was in a dream scape. The rooms were large and well stocked. The food was top notch. We were even able to make special requests not on the the menu and the staff didn't bat an eye. The beach was heaven. Everything you could hope for. Staff and guests alike were happy and friendly. We loved this place and would go back!!!