I just returned from a weekend at the Hyatt Zilara (formerly THE ROYAL Cancun) and here is my honest review.
First of all, let me be upfront and tell you that I am a travel agent. I went to this resort because I have 12 couples booked here in May. With the change of ownership, I just wanted to make sure that everything is still up to the same standards as the Real Resort. I was not disappointed.
Check-In: We were met with champagne and led over to a table in which the concierge asked us about our preferred pillows, when we would want have maid service, and what kind of aromatherapy for the room. We also were able to make reservations for dinners right then. Not all restaurants require reservations but since we were there for only 2 nights, I wanted to try one of the specialty restaurants. We chose Maria Maria (more on that later).
Our room was not ready until 3:00pm. I don't know why everyone makes such an issue about their room not being ready until later in the afternoon. Check-out is at 11:00am, they clean the rooms, and then they check you in. Just come prepared . . . we packed our swimsuits on the outside pockets of our carry-ons, changed, and got on with our weekend. It really is no big deal!
Room: We stayed just in the entry-level Junior Suite. If you cannot afford to upgrade, don't worry! Every room at this resort is ocean front! The view, as you can tell from my pictures, is absolutely amazing. There is a large spa tub right in the bedroom. We never used it. Some people love them, some people hate them. I just don't really take baths on vacation. The shower was huge with about 6 different water spout and it is big enough for two. The drains are not that great and the water did stand a bit but once the water was turned off, it drained rather quickly.
There is a mini-bar in the room stocked with name brand liquors, beers, soda, juices, and water. There was also a full bottle of wine waiting for us.
Turn down service was fantastic and little candies were left each night.
Service: I cannot say enough about the service at this resort. Every single waiter, housekeeper, concierge, bartender . . .everyone went out of their way to make sure that they gave us the best service possible. There is a pool waiter that walks around and will clean your sunglasses. The waiters hand out frozen grapes. They all are just great.
In particular, we loved Felipe at the Lobby Bar. He was so much fun and really made us feel so special. I loved talking to Felipe about his family and about Don Julio 1942 and Real(ha!). I also loved Nava's mojitos down at the beach bar. They were great!
Food: This is the one area where I can't go on and on. In all honesty, I was just there for 2 nights so I don't have a huge selection. Some of the standouts were the Mexican Coffee at Tapas & Pinxtos, my husband loved the tuna at Maria Marias, the flank steak tacos at Pelicano's were great as was the guacamole. I wish we could have tried the Chef's Table . . .another reason to go back.
Entertainment: There are nightly shows in the lobby along with other special theme nights (ie Disco night, etc). The flamenco dancer and singer were fantastic. Him singing Ava Maria was unforgettable. I also enjoyed fondue night. There is also a lady who rolls some fantastic Cuban cigars. She is great.
Beach: The beach is wide and gorgeous. The chairs are nice and the beach service was great. The ocean was very rough and not very swimmable but you can't judge that because next week, it could be great!
Location: This resort is only about 15 minutes from the airport. It has a great, walkable beach. If you want to venture out, feel free to jump on the city bus for only $1 and go to local restaurants, bars, and shops.
If you have any particular questions about this resort, please feel free to message me.
Janice aka "Party Planner Extraordinaire" and me
