Just returned last week from a seven day stay. We have stayed at Halcyon Cove four years and loved it but decided to try the other Rex resort. I am male mid thirties and we were by far the youngest couple there at that time, which didnt bother us one way or the other. We got engaged while we were there so this place will always be special to us, but I will write a fair review regardless because its a really great spot.
Thirty minute ride from the airport with plenty to see, escpecially through town. Checking in was a breeze really, took maybe 15 minutes and they were slammed at that time of day. While we waited for the porter (because its a hike no matter which side you stay on) we got a drink and enjoyed the view of Sea Grapes the main beach. Rum punch was amazing by the way.
This picking the right room seems to be a big deal with other guests reviews, we got a garden bungalow and could have cared less, all you do is sleep and shower there anyway. Now for sleep, I liked the ocean and the geckos, but in the mornings when the goats came out and were very loud I simply put my mp3 in with ocean sounds on it, very simple. I WAS concerned about not AC but I loved the open air, never a problem. No tv was zero problem. Housekeepers are a tad stingy with towels, but gave us more when asked.
All the beaches were nice golden brown with corral and plenty of surf most days. I will add if you like no surf with white powder, Halcyon is better in this category. Honeymoon beach isnt much, Sea Grapes is the nicest, escpecially at the north end. Eden is very beautful and peaceful, like your at the end of the earth or something. Some people clothed, some not, but everyone keeps to themselves. They keep fresh water there, but as for drinks, you better take them with you, its a hike back.
The staff was top notch from top to bottom really, nothing else to say. The watersports guys were awesome from Oh MY, they are hired from the hotel and are very good at watching people when they go out to far or flip, they have a boat and jet skis for rescue. They never bug people much either, if you wanna go out on the water just ask. Bartenders Kris and Millie were our favorites, very sweet ladies that were very attentive. I tipped them quit often, but never noticed anyone else doing so, I'd say it helped me out a little.
Food was really good in our opinion, we cook most of our own meals at home, but still thought the meals there were VERY good. Breakfast buffet was what it was, theres only so much you can do so it got a little tired but they have a fresh grill for whatever you want. Lunch is grilled fresh each and every day with swordfish, burgers, jerk dishes, italian, salads, rice. Diner was usually special because its really pretty in the dining room at night. They alternate with ala carte and buffet each night or you could order a steak or lobster for an extra fee. Each night had suttle entertainment music, dancers, all assorted stuff, which picked up a little bit after diner, but by then we were usually exhausted. On wednesdays they have a BBQ and its casual dress. As far as the gentlemens dress code I saw a few people wear shorts so they arent that strick, but I normally wore cackies and nice sandles.
Few other notes, took bug spray but never used it for mossies, but did notice when I got home a few sand flys got me but it never hurt or itched. This is a very laid back resort, mostly retirement age or a few families, people read all day, listen to mp3s or whatever it is they want. Its very homey and relaxing on Carribean time, always remember that when you land in Antigua, you have to sloooow down or you could miss the beauty of it all.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
