CANCUN/PLAYA Del CARMEN, Mexico ---
The mini bar was free.Qua?
Plus it was not “mini”. The bottles were all large, hanging upside down with bartender spigots, ready to pour.
Now, as a Travel Writer of some 35 years experience, I have travelled around the world and stayed at some incredibly expensive and exclusive resorts. Let me assure you that the Mini-bar is one of those little extras that are never included with an All-Inclusive.
At THE ROYALs, however, all-inclusive means just that - everything is included.
*Palm trees beside the pool at the Gran Porto Real
Playa del Carmen Resort in Cancun
(photo by Steve Veale)
Well, OK, the Spa isn’t part of your upfront payment. That is a la carte. Every treatment has a different price from a Facial to a Combo Shiatsu Massage/Hot Stone treatment. And true, if you would like to book a romantic dinner on the beach for two in a private cabana – that may be a little extra as well.
Monica Roberts design theme for the Real Resorts
(photo by Steve Veale)
But the in-suite double Jacuzzi is standard along with the wall-sized 32" flat screen TV, the hammock on your balcony, the 24-hour room service (with “Magic Box” invisible courtesy) 24-hour lounge with billiards, TV, games and fresh, hot hors d’oeurvres, Olympic-size pool, fully-equipped gym and workout classes, reading rooms and libraries, rooftop tennis courts and volleyball leagues, social activities throughout the day (or not), live music, bands and a Las Vegas-type show in the huge lounge in the evening.
Whew.
THE ROYAL beach at Cancun
(photo by Steve Veale)
Of course there are numerous well-stocked bars throughout the property with unlimited domestic and international premium brand liquors, beer and wine. (Start the day with some champagne and orange juice from the free-pour station during breakfast), cabanas with beach butlers, a Monday evening cocktail party with the management who are pleased to meet-and-great and tell you about the local lore, wine and tequila tasting sessions, cooking demonstrations with the resort chefs and at the end of a long day in the sun, a final pampered luxury in a 300-count thread Egyptian cotton sheets on a massive King-size bed.
Shrimp appetizer at the beachfront Caribbean fusion Pelicano's
(photo by Steve Veale)
And that is not even mentioning the food. Ah, the food. International cuisine served in 12 en-site restaurants range from the Spanish-tinged (Basque, actually) Tapas and Pintxos; the Mexican-French fusion of Maria Marie; the haute cuisine of the upscale Chef’s Plate with a new menu every night; the fresh seafood delicacies of the oceanfront Pelicanos, the Asian ‘Teppanyaki’ dazzling display by a master chef over a hot grill in Asiana and the all-day sumptuous buffet (and personal cooking stations for made-to-order omelettes) of Spice. These are just some of the highlights of course – and should you get a little peckish between meals you can always snack throughout the day at the VIP Lounge (open 24 hours), relax with a freshly-brewed coffee at the Royal Coffee House or even order some appetizers at one of the swim-up bars.
Cooking classes at THE ROYAL
(photo by Steve Veale)
Speaking of bars, the massive Lobby bars in both Royals greet you with a colourful drink just after check-in (check out their ‘Beer Corner’ with international brews on tap) or maybe do some research at the Martini Corner Bar – there is also a Wine Corner Bar. But make sure you visit (at least once) the Tequileria and Cigar Club; even if you do not smoke or drink, you should experience this luxurious and relaxing lounge.
Omelettes to order at THE ROYAL's Spice Buffet Restaurant
(photo by Steve Veale)
(Full disclosure – as an instructor of “Travel Writing”, I stress to every student to avoid ‘superlatives’ when they describe any sight or site; the goal is to remain objective. Don’t gush. Describe. THE ROYAL puts that theory to the test because it is truly “the best” of everything in one resort.)
Fernando Garcia, the founder and owner of the Real Resorts, freely admits – most unashamedly and in fact quite proudly - they “steal” the best elements from the top hotels throughout the world. And why not? Take all the best features of a resort to create a perfect vacation experience.
Fernando Garcia, Founder, Director General
and President of Real Resorts
(photo by Terri Colby)
“We are like the Lexus of the Resort Industry,” confessed Garcia, the founder of the Real Resorts. “Lexus steals the best ideas from other auto makers – they take this from Mercedes, that from BMW and so on. Then they take the best elements and put them into one car. And that is what we have done with THE ROYAL.”
In fact it has taken years to create the blueprint for THE ROYAL Resorts – and ‘thefts’ from all the great hotels and resorts around the globe. How do you start a luxury hotel? Well, first you must see the future, recognize the opportunities. Take a risk. In this instance, that means providing a service that is essential to the visitor on a vacation to Mexico.
When the tourist arrives at any airport in the country – after you pass through immigration – the first thing you see is a sea of spiffy golf shirts with the embroidered with the “Best Day” logo. Dozens of Best Day employees and vehicles fill the waiting area and parking spaces.
"As a student in the early eighties, I was hired by a hotel,” reminisces Senor Garcia, who was working his way through school as well as helping to support a family of 10 siblings. At the time, there were no tour operators to transport tourists to the various attractions throughout the country.
Japanese visitors at the Mayan ruins in Tulum
(photo by Steve Veale)
“An American visitor said he would pay $150 for an escorted tour to the Mayan ruins at Tulum.” Said Sr. Garcia. “That was my pay for two weeks! I said that I would arrange a tour – then had to borrow a friend’s car, and gas money, for the day,” he admitted.
The tourist paid him even more than he promised ($170) and Senor Garcia saw the glimpse of his future when the man said: “This was the best day of my trip.”
Shadow and light at the Mayan ruins at Tulum
(photo by Steve Veale)
After that experience, on his day off, the engaging visionary offered his guiding services to other tourists. “I told them that if this wasn’t the ‘best day’ of their vacation, they did not have to pay me,” he said.They all paid. Gladly. And with a tip as well.Thus was born the “Best Day” Tour Operators – which is now the largest Tour Operator – not just in Mexico - but all of Latin America.
Best Day represents 36 tourism concessions in hotels throughout Cancun and the Mayan Riviera as well as an astounding 120 wholesale travel agencies in the United States, Canada, France, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Uruguay, Sweden, Norway, Ireland and of course – Mexico.
And today, still, the resorts will offer the guests a visit to those Mayan ruins at Tulum via Best Day.
And today, still, the resorts will offer the guests a visit to those Mayan ruins at Tulum via Best Day.
Poolside at THE ROYAL Playa del Carmen
(photo by Steve Veale)
In 1997, Senor Garcia introduced the Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen as an all-inclusive ‘family-friendly’ upscale resort and continued the following year with the Gran Caribe Real in Cancun. The ultra luxury adult-only (16 and up) all-inclusive ROYAL Resorts in Cancun and Playa del Carmen were created in the following years. (Note: Guests also have the option of transferring resorts during their stay - spend three nights at THE ROYAL in Playa del Carmen and then transfer to Cancun.)
“Do things with love – as well as create jobs,” is the personal and professional philosophy of Senor Garcia. Today there are 2,400 employees working in the Real Resort company who greet every guest with a nod and hand to the heart.
A typical greeting from the effervescent staff
of THE ROYAL Lobby Bar in Cancun
(photo by Steve Veale)
“Do everything with love,” repeats the founder. “Love to God, to your family, to your hotel, to your co-workers and to our guests. It works,” he said.
Senor Garcia admits that it may sound corny (in his words) “but that doesn’t mean it isn’t true and sincere.” he emphasized.
Indeed, he truly believes in this philosophy – corny or not. Real Resorts sponsors free educational programs for all its employees, bringing in teachers for everyone to assist them in finishing high school courses as well as sponsoring employees to higher educational and management courses.
His philosophy is infectious - every employee is immersed with the 'pride of service' that is sadly lacking in many areas of the hospitality industry. It is always 'people' who make the vacation - strange as it may seem, the majesty of Tulum may fade but you will always remember a kindness or an attempt at improving your Spanish from a friendly and laughing waiter.
The staff, no matter how busy, will always make time to assist you and even help you pronounce the name of your breakfast properly in Spanish - do you really know how to pronounce: Huevos Ranchero or Chimichanga? (Hint: Make sure you practice two important phrases: Mucho gracias and Por favor. You will be using them frequently. Also commit to memory: "Dos cervezas por favor". This will be one of the most important requests of your vacation).
They will also give you the local lore and legends and maybe even some juicy gossip! Also, it is good to know the 'customs of the country'. Tip: Did you know it is unlucky to leave a purse or bag hanging on the back of a chair? True. So the resort has racks (think small coat rack) they bring to each table during your meal.
His philosophy is infectious - every employee is immersed with the 'pride of service' that is sadly lacking in many areas of the hospitality industry. It is always 'people' who make the vacation - strange as it may seem, the majesty of Tulum may fade but you will always remember a kindness or an attempt at improving your Spanish from a friendly and laughing waiter.
A ROYAL Honeymooners welcome
(photo by Steve Veale)
They will also give you the local lore and legends and maybe even some juicy gossip! Also, it is good to know the 'customs of the country'. Tip: Did you know it is unlucky to leave a purse or bag hanging on the back of a chair? True. So the resort has racks (think small coat rack) they bring to each table during your meal.
Waiter Jesus assists Writer June Naylor with the 'bag rack'
during her breakfast at the Spice Restaurant
(photo by Steve Veale)
Giving back: The Corporation as Humanitarian
TIP: Re tips. Although your all-inclusive vacation does include gratuities and all taxes, you may wish to have a few 20 peso notes - about $2 - with you to thank a waiter or staff member for some exceptional service or helpful assistance.
Giving back: The Corporation as Humanitarian
As a completely-owned and operated Mexican company, the founder believes in helping his country and its people. Guests might also like to know that a portion of the profits from the resorts are all channeled back into assisting the less-fortunate throughout Mexico.
For instance, one of the charitable foundations sponsored by the Real Resorts is the ‘City of Joy’ – a 12 acre compound located just outside of Cancun. This foundation provides education, health care, legal support and other services for needy families in collaboration with a network of charitable organizations.
For instance, one of the charitable foundations sponsored by the Real Resorts is the ‘City of Joy’ – a 12 acre compound located just outside of Cancun. This foundation provides education, health care, legal support and other services for needy families in collaboration with a network of charitable organizations.
The foundation assists more than 20,000 people per year. Real Resorts also sponsors charitable assistance for thousands of people in Haiti.
As part of Senor Garcia’s philosophy of ‘giving back’ to the community, Real Resorts is offering guest the opportunity to turn their special vacation into a truly memorable experience. Partnering with the City of Joy Foundation, real Resorts is inviting couples to create a ‘Legacy Gift Fund’ to help educate a child.
The Mano Amiga School for Children helps to educate more than 1,300 children each year – children whose families have an average income based on a mere $450 per month. (The cost of educating one student is Approx. 25 US per month.) Guests donating toward this cause will receive a commemorative plaque in their honour and a letter twice a year from a sponsored student. Wedding couples especially are encouraged to visit the school itself where their names and date of marriage will be inscribed on a special wedding plaque.
“The idea of a Legacy Wedding gift Program was suggested to us by several of our guests who said they were not in need of traditional wedding gifts and wanted to do something to share their good fortune…to do something meaningful,” said Senor Garcia.
Guests wishing to create such a living legacy can sign up through the Wedding Planner at Real Resorts who will also arrange a Bridal Registry so their guests can contribute as well. (www.Weddings.RealResorts.com)
Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Chapel at the Gran Caribe Real Cancun
(photo by Steve Veale)
As for those weddings – the Wedding Planning office always seemed to be busy during our recent visit to the ROYALS. In fact, about 600 weddings were celebrated last year at the four resorts. Many take place on the beach, under a canopy at sunset while others sit in the outdoor seating of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the Gran Caribe Real. This is Mexico’s only resort that offers a sanctified Catholic chapel for weddings and religious services. This 180-seat chapel sits on a small bluff overlooking the Caribbean.
Celebrating the recent nuptials with a celebratory cocktail
at THE ROYAL's Tapas Pintxos Restaurant
(photo by Steve Veale)
(One morning following a swim in the surf, I ambled back to the hotel and stumbled across a carpet with a bridesmaid leading her friends to the ‘altar’ – a blue canopy where the minister was waiting to make them legal.)
As a nod to the Mexican locale, some couples also ask for the services of the Mayan priest (yes, they still exist) to help the regular minister with his official duties.
The Mayan ceremony also includes some unforgettable witnesses to ensure a memorable,
definitely unforgettable, wedding day experience.
(photo by Steve Veale)
There are even those who just use the services of the Mayan priest for a traditional ceremony during their stay. Note: These marriages are only valid for the duration of your ROYAL stay. You will be single again once you board your return flight.
Weddings of course are a la carte – since they are not for all guests – and prices range from $700 to $8,000 for the ultimate wedding luxury package that includes a cocktail party for 12 on a private 55-foot yacht. All packages include a professional wedding planner, an upgraded room and of course champagne for all.
But then, whatever the cost, it will be a lot less than renting the hall back home.
Now, backtracking to the beginning - one of the biggest surprises for any experienced traveller comes with your arrival at the 507-all suite ROYAL in Playa del Carmen (after a 50-minute van ride from a very knowledgeable Best Day driver). As you weave through the crowded streets of the town, he mentions that "this is the famous 5th Avenue" - a three-mile pedestrian only street filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, shops, stores and little 'cool and casual' hotels. As you crane your neck to look along the street, he says "And here is your hotel".
Now that is a shock. Most resorts are miles outside of any town - perhaps a $30 cab ride away. THE ROYAL connects to the town at the front door while the expanse of white sand beach meets the pool outside the back doors.
Most resorts try and keep you inside their compound. THE ROYAL and Real want you to explore the town; the employees will help you with directions and make suggestions for your shopping needs. They hope you do take a stroll in the evening among the lights and laughter of a crowded 5th Avenue - they want you to experience a full Mexican vacation.
THE ROYAL in Cancun is located in the 'Hotel Zone' along the main highway in Cancun. This could actually be classified as be a 'boutique resort' with a mere 288-suites - all with ocean views. Since there are so few rooms - unheard of for a major resort - there are more staff than guests. This simply means the service is first-rate, immediate and - have I mentioned?- very genuine and friendly.
CocoBongo ! - one of those Mexican experiences has to include the undescribeable nightclub/party central known as CocoBongo. Whenever a member of out group mentioned we were going there, people's eyes would glaze over as they said: "Oh, CocoBongo..." in a somewhat reverential tone.
This is a nightclub unlike any other. The formal show starts at 11:30 pm and continues non-stop for a pounding, pulsating, visually-stunning three hour extravaganza of sound and light - music, dancing, video, acrobat, etc etc. (I experienced an evening - or morning - at CocoBongo and I still cannot adequately describe it.) The cover charge is $50 per person - after that everything is free, all drinks and appetizers, until the sun comes up about 6 am. This is a combination stage show, Las Vegas performance combined with Cirque du Soleil and the party is staged every night. Hundreds and hundreds of people pack into a three-tiered club for the show, dancing, drinking and PAR-TAH! (Note: If you are claustrophobic, this is NOT the place for you). CocoBongo is a true experience. Check it out. http:www.cocobongo.com.mx.
Guests will note that many of the staff and employees all carry iPads. This helps them record the 'likes & dislikes', special requests, etc. of all the guests. Everything from food allergies to time of requested turn-down service is noted by the staff and constantly updated with each request. This proprietary software was created by THE ROYAL Cancun's Operations Manager Alan Del Blanco, a IT graduate of Columbia University. Alan spent some months - and many years in the hotel business - creating a program that will assist both guests and staff. At this time, they are the only resorts in the world that use this unique system. Note: I wasn't privy to any personal guest information but I can tell you the hotel was running at 92 per cent occupancy.
But what if you want to visit downtown Cancun? Specifically the busy and bustling Mercado 28, an indoor/outdoor marketplace with thousands of little shops and stalls selling every type of tourist ornament or garment - from kitsch to classy - known to man or the shopping woman. (This is the spot to but the original Mexican Guayaberas shirts for the man and colorful blouses for any woman).
Now a warning about Mercado 28 - it can be fun and frantic but it is not for the faint-of-heart. "Come, come in, see my shop, buy, buy...special price today, just for you...." and on it goes. Be ready to run, break away (yes, they may grab your arm) but relax and enjoy the non-North American shopping experience. Be ready to bargain! Enjoy the game. "Oh no...too much" and walk away. They will chase after you. (I had one merchant who wanted to sell me a lovely gold necklace for 125,000 pesos. About $125. After walking away twice, the price eventually came down to $25.) Do NOT agree to the first price. It's a game. Bargain, bargain and bargain some more. Play the game. If not, you will disappoint the seller. Don't be afraid to walk away. You will always be able to find a similar items somewhere else in the marketplace. And the merchants know that as well. Enjoy. Have fun! (Tip: When you need a break from your bargaining venture, wander around until you find the little Alley Cat Cafe. A huge plate of Tacos with salad and potato for 60 pesos - about $6 - with a cerveza or two will get you back in prime shape for more shopping.)
By the end of 2012, the number of hotel rooms in Cancun and the Mayan Riviera will have passed the 100,000 mark. There are at least 500 resort hotels in the area. Cancun itself, now almost one million people, is a city created specifically for the hospitality industry; it barely existed 30 years ago.
THE ROYAL in Cancun
Zona Hotelera Cancun
Quintana Roo, Mexico C.P. 77500
TEL; (800) 216 55 00
Web: http://www.RealResorts.com
A signpost to guide you along Playa del Carmen's fabulous 5th Avenue
(photo by Steve Veale)
Now, backtracking to the beginning - one of the biggest surprises for any experienced traveller comes with your arrival at the 507-all suite ROYAL in Playa del Carmen (after a 50-minute van ride from a very knowledgeable Best Day driver). As you weave through the crowded streets of the town, he mentions that "this is the famous 5th Avenue" - a three-mile pedestrian only street filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, shops, stores and little 'cool and casual' hotels. As you crane your neck to look along the street, he says "And here is your hotel".
Now that is a shock. Most resorts are miles outside of any town - perhaps a $30 cab ride away. THE ROYAL connects to the town at the front door while the expanse of white sand beach meets the pool outside the back doors.
One of the cool little streetside restaurants
decked out for Christmas in Playa del Carmen
(photo by Steve Veale)
THE ROYAL in Cancun is located in the 'Hotel Zone' along the main highway in Cancun. This could actually be classified as be a 'boutique resort' with a mere 288-suites - all with ocean views. Since there are so few rooms - unheard of for a major resort - there are more staff than guests. This simply means the service is first-rate, immediate and - have I mentioned?- very genuine and friendly.
CocoBongo ! - one of those Mexican experiences has to include the undescribeable nightclub/party central known as CocoBongo. Whenever a member of out group mentioned we were going there, people's eyes would glaze over as they said: "Oh, CocoBongo..." in a somewhat reverential tone.
This is a nightclub unlike any other. The formal show starts at 11:30 pm and continues non-stop for a pounding, pulsating, visually-stunning three hour extravaganza of sound and light - music, dancing, video, acrobat, etc etc. (I experienced an evening - or morning - at CocoBongo and I still cannot adequately describe it.) The cover charge is $50 per person - after that everything is free, all drinks and appetizers, until the sun comes up about 6 am. This is a combination stage show, Las Vegas performance combined with Cirque du Soleil and the party is staged every night. Hundreds and hundreds of people pack into a three-tiered club for the show, dancing, drinking and PAR-TAH! (Note: If you are claustrophobic, this is NOT the place for you). CocoBongo is a true experience. Check it out. http:www.cocobongo.com.mx.
Monica Roberts, Corporate Director of Operations,
and THE ROYAL Cancun's Alan Del Blanco, Operations Manager
(photo by Steve Veale)
Guests will note that many of the staff and employees all carry iPads. This helps them record the 'likes & dislikes', special requests, etc. of all the guests. Everything from food allergies to time of requested turn-down service is noted by the staff and constantly updated with each request. This proprietary software was created by THE ROYAL Cancun's Operations Manager Alan Del Blanco, a IT graduate of Columbia University. Alan spent some months - and many years in the hotel business - creating a program that will assist both guests and staff. At this time, they are the only resorts in the world that use this unique system. Note: I wasn't privy to any personal guest information but I can tell you the hotel was running at 92 per cent occupancy.
THE ROYAL's concierge demonstrates the Real Resort's proprietary software program
to record guest information and requests
(photo by steve Veale)
Jesus, of the Alley Cat restaurant in Mercado 28, serves Canadian retiree Hans Plania,
who leaves the Toronto winters for the warm sunshine of Cancun every year.
(photo by Steve Veale)
The public bus system to the middle of town is very simple - the bus stops right outside THE ROYAL and takes you on a 20-minute ride directly to the main station at the massive downtown Walmart - just a two minutes stroll from the market. The ride in new, clean buses is only a few pesos - pennies really. | |||||||
Cancun's busy, bustling, bargaining Mercado 28 features thousands of shops and stalls where - like Alice's Restaurant - you can get anything you want. Even authentic Mexican 'Lucha libre' wrestling masks.
(photos by Steve Veale)Now a warning about Mercado 28 - it can be fun and frantic but it is not for the faint-of-heart. "Come, come in, see my shop, buy, buy...special price today, just for you...." and on it goes. Be ready to run, break away (yes, they may grab your arm) but relax and enjoy the non-North American shopping experience. Be ready to bargain! Enjoy the game. "Oh no...too much" and walk away. They will chase after you. (I had one merchant who wanted to sell me a lovely gold necklace for 125,000 pesos. About $125. After walking away twice, the price eventually came down to $25.) Do NOT agree to the first price. It's a game. Bargain, bargain and bargain some more. Play the game. If not, you will disappoint the seller. Don't be afraid to walk away. You will always be able to find a similar items somewhere else in the marketplace. And the merchants know that as well. Enjoy. Have fun! (Tip: When you need a break from your bargaining venture, wander around until you find the little Alley Cat Cafe. A huge plate of Tacos with salad and potato for 60 pesos - about $6 - with a cerveza or two will get you back in prime shape for more shopping.)
Parrotheads Delight! Jimmy Buffett in Cancun
(photo by Steve Veale)
(*Note: Calling all Parrotheads. Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville bar/restaurant and gift shop - for those who collect Parrothead tee-shirts - is just across the highway from THE ROYAL. Drop in for a 'Cheeseburger in Paradise' and a "cold draught beer".)
By the end of 2012, the number of hotel rooms in Cancun and the Mayan Riviera will have passed the 100,000 mark. There are at least 500 resort hotels in the area. Cancun itself, now almost one million people, is a city created specifically for the hospitality industry; it barely existed 30 years ago.
Guadalupe welcomes guests to the Lobby Bar at THE ROYAL Cancun
(photo by Steve Veale)
Rates at THE ROYALS and Reals vary per season as well as the availability and type of rooms (i.e. Juniors suites or the Presidential). Check the official website for packages - room only or with flight. Inexpensive? No. First-rate? The best? Yes. And as I said - the mini bar is included. Along with (pretty much) everything else. Book, arrive, relax and enjoy - prepare yourself for a vacation featuring 'the best of the best'.
------------
Real Resorts
c/o Boulevard Kukulcan Km.11.5THE ROYAL in Cancun
Zona Hotelera Cancun
Quintana Roo, Mexico C.P. 77500
TEL; (800) 216 55 00
Web: http://www.RealResorts.com
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The author at the Mayan Ruins of coastal Tulum, Mexico
(photo by Bill Vanderford)
Steve Veale has been writing travel for newspapers, magazines, guidebooks and websites since 1976. (His most recent guidebook was the 176-page Thomas Cook Travellers Guide to Ontario & Quebec with SATW Photographer Donald Nausbaum.) He is a 30-year member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) Canadian Chapter & Freelance Council and also teaches Travel Writing as a instructor in the Journalism program at Toronto's George Brown College.
