We have traveled a lot - all over the US and all over the world both as business travelers and for vacation. Been to more fixe star properties and resorts than I can count - both urban and remote - and Isla Palenque is one of the best places we have ever stayed.

You need to understand you are in jungle, and thus realize there will be some bugs, some rain, etc, but once you get past that geographic reality, you realize this is a remarkably special place and you just need to take it all in. The setting is spectacular…your bungalows are steps from a gorgeous beach with spectacular sunsets teaming with wildlife. The beach is PRISTINE.

The rooms are wonderful, spacious and designed for where you are…huge outdoor living spaces. I got up early every morning and had to work for a couple hours w coffee, sunrise by the beach and perfect wifi. Because of the location right on the water there is usually a breeze that keeps the mosquitos to a relative minimum. I spent the vast majority of my time there with no big spray on and only got bit twice (my wife was less fortunate, but, again, you have to remember where you are).

In all our traveling, though, one thing we’ve learned is that a place can all be made of golf but if the service isn’t 5 star you feel pretty quickly like the place is terrible. In the case of Isla Palenque, if there were ten stars, I would give it that.

The activities were fantastic, largely organized at your discretion, totally flexible and run in a very efficient, organized manner. The guides, Paco and Francis, we’re super knowledgeable, very friendly and fantastic with kids. I would give highlights…but they were all highlights.

The concierge/ “front desk” staff was amazing. If you wanted it, they took care of it with the biggest smile. They repeatedly offered to watch our smaller kids that didn’t want to go on some of the excursions (we have 4 - 12, 9, 7 and 4, and often some didn’t want to go). We took them up on that and they all had a fantastic time - they didn’t just make sure they didn’t get ripped away by the tide…they built sand castles with them and really bonded. Our kids were soooooo sad to leave them.

The food was outrageous. We have a family of young athletes who eat a ton…and the food was all hyper local, fresh, healthy and delicious…we probably ate ten times what they are used to and they were always super gracious, provided it all and it was exceptional. Truly some of the best food you’ll get anywhere, from chefs that were trained con su abuela…it was amazing. Highly recommend the cooking class. The kitchen staff and waiters were all top notch.

The place was sooooooo family friendly and you just cannot put a value on that. We were welcomed like kin and left so sad that we had to move on. A fantastic experience and, honestly, despite its price tag, great value for money. We’re already talking about when we can go back…