Hidden Beach, Riviera Maya: Mike & Linda - November, 2009
November 2009, trip report to Hidden Beach Resort by Mike and Linda
Because all of our vacations to the Caribbean seem to amount to a blur once we’ve said “Goodbye”, “Adios”, “Au Revoir”, I will first say that every word by Darryl and Gail in the October 2009 report couldn’t be closer to the absolute truth. We adored Angel, Esperanza, Jorge and the rest of the faithful staff who DID remember our names after the first day, who DID treat us like very special people the entire time of our stay, who WILL always be remembered for their graciousness, professionalism and genuine gratitude for all of us that stay at this beautiful resort.
Being Hedo ll vets, a big miss is the open sexual displays, which we knew were not allowed when we booked. This took a back seat after having experienced what amounts to a whole lot more pluses overall on the HBR side of the equation though it all depends on individual taste, of course.
The food and drinks were outstanding...There’s simply no comparison, period, in our opinion. I will mention at this point that the cost difference between the two resorts, at this particular time of travel, was NEGLIGIBLE (watch for specials!!). This is not always the case throughout the year.
The fully stocked fridge and available booze in the room to party with friends without having to go to the bar to refresh drinks every 10 minutes is a huge plus. So’s the spacious Jacuzzi tub, complete with provided bubble bath (watch how much you add…. J)
The quaintness of the resort is also really exciting. One big happy family.
There were many little private get-togethers here and there throughout our stay which happens no matter where you go, but HBR is certainly more equipped to handle it in the form of supplies provided and personal service on request. They will go so far as to set up a table for you outside of your room and bring you a meal, if that’s what you desire, or serve it to you in bed. Your wish is their command! Chocolate dipped strawberries, champagne, you name it.
Really, overall, this place ROCKS. Especially for the ‘older’ crowd that may not be into the disco thing til the wee hours of the morning, who would just as soon get together with some engaging folks for good conversation and laughs in the rooms, in the hot tubs, on the swinging beds that dot the shoreline or around the pool on the nice wooden chaises with non-mildewed CLEAN pads, complete with umbrellas!
On the negative side is the lack of anyplace to float around in the Caribbean, if that’s your bag. We settled for grabbing some stale bread from the kitchen, wading out a few dozen feet, in order to feed the fish, and then we headed back to the lounges on shore. We didn’t take advantage of the snorkeling or any other water activities which you can participate in by simply wandering next door to the El Dorado. They too have great food, by the way, all included in the HBR package.
We’ll definitely return to this wonderful place and like Darryl and Gail, we’ll be bringing some friends along to spread the joy.
Ohatchee, AL