I recently returned from a trip to Cancun with 2 friends for a sunny getaway. We decided to stay at the Barcelo Tucancun (All Inclusive) after a lot of research, primarily using TripAdvisor reviews to help choose the right hotel for us. So it only felt right to contribute ourselves. We were extremely happy with our choice and had a fabulous time, mostly because the hotel was exactly what we were looking for.
Pools - 3 pools, each with its own bar. One pool has swim up bar and activities all day every day. Plenty of sun lounges but the earlier you're out the more choice you have. You have a towel card for however many towels you want each day and if you lose the card or a towel you have to pay USD25 - not a problem as long as you know this beforehand.
Eating - 4 restaurants to choose from for dinner - Three ala carte places that require reservations. One buffet dinner with a different theme each night that does not require reservation. Buffet breakfast always yummy with great variety, fresh and a perfect way to start the day. And they serve brekky from 7am to 1200 - later than anywhere else I've ever stayed! Two lunch buffets to choose from. Overall good food, great selection. The Mexican Restaurant for dinner was my favourite. Service almost always impeccable at each one.
Hotel was kept very clean
Staff always friendly and polite
Bars - In addition to Pool bars, was also a Lobby Bar open until 5am every night so you never go thirsty. A tip here and there to your barman will ensure great service,
Rooms - clean. Beds comfy. Mini Bar kept stocked and included in All Inclusive Deal. Housekeeping look after you a bit more if you leave a tip - $1 or $2 here and there. Aircon a little cold for us. Hot showers. In room safe that you have to pay for - about USD2.20 per day - but make sure you are aware of the fine print that says if you lose the key to the safe you have to pay USD100.
Entertainment - A cabaret style lounge that offers different nightly entertainment but we did not attend any of these.
Beach: Beautiful, clean, crystal clear waters. Lifeguard on duty during the day - flags indicating level of danger for swimming.
Wireless internet available - pretty pricey but not too bad (USD5 per hour) much cheaper in town. Phone calls expensive so don't bother if you don't have to.
Tips:
** Learn a little Spanish language before arriving, its the polite thing to do. Just the basics.
** Tip small amounts often - this will get you far!
** Beware of people wanting to talk to you about time share. We knew to avoid it but many don't know and it wastes your time. The reps for these are in the hotel and normally start the conversation with offering something free... Nothing is free!!
** The Party Hopper Tour booked through the hotel was loads of fun, including cover and all drinks for three different bars. Vibe was awesome - we had so much fun.
** Do your own research if you want do a tour as there are many options and agency people to book through. We booked one with Traffic and one with Barcelo and both were what we expected.
** Go to Chichen Itza, the newest wonder of the world. But note you can no longer climb it - you may not be told this.
** Swimming with the dolphins was a highlight, but they try to rip you off afterwards offering photo and DVD packages that cost hundreds of USD... just beware...
** Taxis are ok but a little costly for tourists. Buses come every 2 mins and cost USD0.65 per trip..
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