My family and I stayed at Gran Marlon’s on many previous occasions. We are from Belize and we always go to Chetumal for pleasure. We usually make our reservations by phone and pay upon arrival. In the summer of this year, we showed up as usual, with prior reservations, and we were surprised at the cold reception we got. I don’t know if management has since changed but this is not the same Gran Marlon’s reception we were accustomed to.

The lady at the front desk related to us without any hesitation that all the rooms were full. I asked her to check again because we made reservation and we were promised 2 double rooms payable upon our arrival. The stern - faced receptionist stated that she can only offer us accommodations at the rundown Motel Marlon, in front of them. Perhaps she deems the rundown motel more ‘fitting’ for our standard.

I exited the Hotel and stood across the street, from where I called the same receptionist on a cell phone, pretending to be a tourist from the US, on my second honeymoon. She bought the story, and miraculously, not only were there rooms available, but the very resourceful receptionist, who just refused us service, was willing to hold the room for me until late that night. She even offered the name of her relief, in case her shift was over when I arrived.

I don’t think I'll b staying at Marlon's again, as I rather go where my hard earned cash is appreciated. On a good note, my family and I went to Los Cocos Hotel for a few more bucks, but the money was well spent as the service was remarkable and the staff was very professional. Really, we were disappointed about the Gran Marlon's experience, but we soon recuperated in the Jacuzzi at Los Cocos Hotel.