Visited Cancun and the NH Krystal for one day and night while spending the week on Isla Mujeres. We booked the NH Krystal based on its location to the clubs and shops. At first we were impressed with the hotel as we entered the lobby and were greeted by reception staff. However, upon closer inspection, mainly on the floor levels and in the actual rooms, it became apparent this was an old hotel and it was showing. The first room they sent us to was a disaster as it was under a mild renovation. Once that error was cleared up and we were assigned to another room we were pleased with the ocean views and roominess. But again, the furniture and finishes were showing their age. However, based on our rate for the room and in consideration of it being a beach hotel, it was still a fair bargain.
It was not until we headed down to the pool that we realized there was no beach. Additionally, the surf in this area was too rough for swimming, so we resigned to lounging by the pool. The pool was small but clean. There is no swim-up bar, but they do have a centrally located tiki bar. The drinks were ok, but not quite good. With only a limited pool area we quickly became bored and decided to head down the street for a bite to eat. This is when we realized that what was once likely a very picturesque barrier island was now nothing more than Mexico's version of Daytona Beach. Too much concrete and asphalt. Too many shops, bars, clubs and hotels. Too many vendors harassing you as you walk by. And not nearly enough Mexican or island authenticity to distinguish this destination from any other tourist trap.
While we had originally planned to stay the night and enjoy the notorious Cancun nightlife, we quickly lost interest and checked out by mid-afternoon. We headed back to Isla Mujeres for all things Cancun was missing.
If the NH Krystal had been located on another beach or coastal area, it would have been a fair bargain.
