Grand Esmeralda

The main reason I won't book this resort again is due to the abundance of mosquitoes in the rooms. It's almost impossible to keep them out, and it's quite unpleasant. Although the price was good, I was surprised to find out that they charge for everything, even with the all-inclusive package. Additional taxes, internet fees for multiple devices, room service fees, and COVID testing fees are all charged separately. The resort is a bit outdated, but it didn't bother me too much since I was there for the beach and the views were beautiful. However, the hallways are very loud and echoey, making it difficult to sleep at night. The food was only average, and I found myself eating the same meals repeatedly due to the limited selection. Most of the staff were friendly, but there were a few inappropriate interactions. Additionally, the process of booking restaurants was frustrating since it had to be done daily and in person. The check-in process was disorganized, and the staff member was rude and spoke in Spanish in front of me even though I didn't understand. Overall, the experience fell short compared to other resorts.

During my solo vacation, I had a less than satisfactory experience. Upon arrival, I found the rooms to be in a state of disarray, with sand strewn about. The pool also had broken ceramic tiles, which led to me sustaining a cut on my knees from the very first day of my stay at the hotel. The beach was overrun with sargasso, making it nearly impossible to enjoy. As a result, I spent most of my time at the pool. The food was passable, nothing out of the ordinary, but the drink servers were quite pleasant. Overall, the hotel was in need of an upgrade and better cleaning practices to ensure a more enjoyable stay for guests.

This charming hotel boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, thanks to its incredibly hospitable and accommodating staff. The lush gardens and well-kept grounds are a testament to the care and attention given to the property. Guests have a plethora of options when it comes to dining and drinking, with a variety of bars and restaurants serving up delectable cuisine and refreshing beverages.

The shoreline adjacent to our lodging was somewhat unclean and had a pungent odor. Given that we were situated along the Gulf Coast, I wasn't taken aback. Nonetheless, the resort went above and beyond to maintain the area's cleanliness and convenience, providing abundant lawn furniture. The pathway from the resort's pool to the beach was a breeze, and the beach itself boasted amenities such as beach volleyball and a daytime beach bar.

The water at this beach appears to lack clarity, which may not be as appealing as the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. However, it is worth noting that the water quality may improve over time, as we have observed changes in its appearance during our stay. As such, we may update our review with new photos and a revised rating. Our stay at the hotel was from October 29 to November 12, 2018.