Can someone tell me about Iberostar Grand Paraiso? I am looking for a higher end hotel with emphasis on service, cleanliness and spa. Taking 2 daughters with me (ages 22 and 26) so don't want to be with only honeymooners. Need singles as well. Anyone recommend Grand or do you recommend another anywhere in Mexico??
There are many reviews for the IB Grand under the 'Hotels' section of this forum. It's rated #1. Also, if you do a search in these forums, you'll find a lot of useful/helpful information.
It's been almost a year since I went to the Grand, and I will be returning again in six LONG months.
We loved the resort - everything about it.
The service is quite good, the staff is very friendly and accommodating. As far as cleanliness, I've never seen anything like it. I would have eaten off of the walkways. The rooms and all common areas were spotless at all times.
We went in to the spa area and it is gorgeous. We did not have spa services (they only do couples massages at the Grand, otherwise, you'll need to use the spa for the other IB resorts), but will probably try them next time.
The crowd is mixed. Some younger honeymooners. I'd say the average age is over the 20's, though. We saw couples, singles, groups traveling together.
Also keep in mind that your girls will be able to use the facilities at any of the other IB properties. If it gets a bit sleepy for them at the Grand, they can go to the disco or to search for other travelers who may be closer to their own age.
I would absolutely recommend the Grand. It all depends on what the three of you are looking to get out of this vacation. If you want more activity, I'm wondering if a resort closer to Playa del Carmen might be more of what you're looking for.
Don't know if this reply helped or added any confusion....
There's also http://www.iberostar-board.com - you'll find a lot of resort-specific information there.
Happy planning and enjoy. It sounds like a great trip you're planning.
thank you very much. The hotel sounds great but do you recommend another closer to where we could just walk for shopping. We stayed at Royal HIdeaway last year and we were the ONLY ones there not on honeymoon. We really want a great spa, good beach, great activity pool and great service. Doesn't have to be all inclusive but that would be great.
As much as I love the Grand (and will be returning for my second time next Thursday), I think the Royal Playa del Carmen sounds like it would be a good mix for you and your daughters.
It's within walking distance to PDC and I think it's more lively than the Grand. I've never stayed there, but I have friends who swear by it. I don't think it's going to be on the same level service-wise, or amenity wise as the Grand, but it might work for your family.
As a matter of fact, as I type this, I see a banner ad to my left for the Royal.
I just noticed where you're located! Hola neighbor!
Mrs8, I can definitely recommend Royal Playa Del Carmen if you want to be IN Playa. Their spa is very nice, though not cheap (none of them are).
I first went sept 07, liked it SO much that the DAY I GOT BACK I made a res to go back at Thanksgiving and then I went AGAIN in April 08. But as much as I love Playa (and STARBUCKS), the last time in Apr was 8 days and I never left the property.
I felt like a traitor to Playa when I went to Riu in Aruba in September, and April 08 I am going to Grand Sirenis down near akumal bec. I got a great price.
thanks so much for your replies. One other question if you can answer it. Is the Royal Playa better than Royal Cancun? Location better at one or the other?? Beach better at one or the other??
Hey Spring Texas!!!
I haven't been to either but looking at the "travelers photos" and reading the reviews the Royal Playa Del Carmen looks like it has the better beach and better reviews. Playa Del Carmen in my opinion is a better destination than Cancun unless you really like to party. You can walk to Playa Del Carmen from the RPD and 5th Ave is right there. Read the reviews of both yourself and check out the oics. The Royal in Cancun seems to have lost most of it's beach. Most of the chairs aren't even on the beach because they don't fit.
7,742 posts
675 helpful votes We have been to the Royal Cancun and the Royal in Playa Del Carmen. both are amazing but we liked the Royal in cancun better mainly because we have older kids and they like to shop and go to the clubs.
The one in Playa is bigger and you are not guaranteed an ocean front view and you are at the Royal Cancun. My daughter (21) liked the entertainment guys much much better in Cancun. When we went to Playa they didn't pay much attention to anyone but that changes with the change in staff. I think the ones in Cancun have to be lively as they are at the pool, in the shows and take people out every night to clubs. The beach is better in Playa and the food is the same....excellent. The royal in PDC is close to 5th avenue which is fun but not as much fun as Cancun nightlife. There are tons of clubs and right across the street is Pat O'brians and Margaritaville which are lots of fun.The shopping is also better in Cancun. Both of these hotels are beautiful upscale hotels...I guess we just like Cancun so you can leave the hotel with lots to do if you want. When staying at The Royal Cancun you are allowed to go next door to use their facilities etc but they can't come there. So there are lots of young people there...it is just not as luxurious....so that is an option. It is very close...just a gate and you are there.
This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.
What are forum guidelines?