We stayed for 4 nights in January. This is not really a resort as we define a 'resort', but a nice hotel in a good location with some amenities.
Every interaction we had with the staff was very pleasant. They went out of their way to make us feel at home. Paula at the front desk when we checked in had a great sense of humor, Cesar at the bellhop desk always asked if there was anything he could do for us each day, Anna serving drinks on the beach always had a smile. Everyone else who got us an umbrella, cleaned our room or served us food and drinks was just as nice. The service is definitely the strong suit of this hotel.
The pool is tiny - about the size of a larger pool you'd find at a nice home. We never even used it as the beach is right there and is beautiful. As other reviewers have said, they put a lot of loungers in a small area, but we always found 2 together and never felt 'on top of' anyone in the next seats over. This area would feel less cramped if people didn't put towels down at 7am to reserve seats and then never use them or use them for an hour at 2pm or so. This is really kind of a silly, no-class thing to do and unnecessary. So future travelers, do all the guests a favor and don't do that.....
As far as drawbacks go, it is expensive. A served cocktail on the beach is about $10 US and the food is about the same expense level. We went across the street to Coconut Joe's for their $6 breakfast (2 eggs, toast, potato cake and bacon) which is about the best deal you can find anywhere on the island. There are liquor stores within walking distance going either way on west bay road, so we mixed our own drinks and saved a lot of money.
The room decor is dated, but when we travel to beautiful destinations like this we only use the room for sleep and shower time. Our 'partial ocean view' room had a nice little balcony and a great view of the water. We enjoyed coffee there every morning and could clearly hear the waves rolling in - very relaxing.
We didn't use the concierge services as we pre-booked all of our activities before we arrived, but they seemed to have a wide selection of activities to choose from.
We'd stay here again on points for sure. If we were paying cash I am not so sure as it's expensive. But the staff was great, the location was great and we were very satisfied.
Room Tip: Choose an ocean view or beach view room. The courtyard rooms are not as nice.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
19 February 2012
Dear KCBrad:
I would like to thank you for the kind comments you made on the caring service provided by Paula, Cesar and Anna. I know they will be very pleased to hear how much you enjoyed their service and I will make sure to recognize them for their great focus on making your stay a special one. Associates like them make us very proud and represent the spirit and values that Marriott stands for.
We hope to see you back in the future!
Regards,
Ingrid Chaves
Director of Rooms Operations
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC