Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort And Spa by IHG

A very pleasant stay, with staff who were professional, helpful, and extremely friendly. The continental breakfast was the best I’ve had so far, and I appreciated it. The bracelet used as the hotel key is a unique, innovative touch. Service was good, with a couple of hiccups on different days that I’m not holding against them. What an amazing hotel, five stars minimum.

The location is the biggest plus. Most resorts at this level don’t have the reef right outside, which is great if you want to stay around the property without driving or taking a boat. We arranged a taxi through the Roatan Visitors Bureau, which was easy and cheaper than the GR shuttle. Alejandra helped us and was terrific. All the cabs arrived punctually, and our driver had a sign with our name when we arrived. We stayed here four years ago, before it became a Kimpton property. There are a few things to nitpick, but the improvements outweighed the setbacks, and this is hands down a five-star resort. The old Grand Roatan had much better pool food than the Sea Cat, and the baleadas were significantly better. Service from all the GR staff was exceptional, especially the poolside towel attendants. The resort fee may seem high, but we used at least 3-4 towels a day, and they kept the poolside area pristine. Our fifth-floor ocean-view room had the best view of any room we’ve ever stayed in. We enjoyed dinner at the restaurant. The Red Snapper was amazing, though the seafood ravioli didn’t measure up. Breakfast was exceptional every morning, with fresh pineapple, papaya, and kiwi, plus oatmeal, custom-made omelets, breads, waffles, and chia pudding. There were also lots of interesting local dishes we liked, though I forgot their names. For lunch, we walked to Bean Crazy most days for terrific fresh food at around $10 and incredible coffee. It was the best cappuccino I’ve ever had. The West Bay location doesn’t appear on Google Maps, but it’s an easy ten-minute walk from the resort: walk along the beach to Paradise Resort, then use the public walkway up to the road. We took home 8 pounds of coffee beans. We did have a few gripes with the Kimpton. They didn’t provide complimentary water. Filtered water stations are on some floors, but they weren’t as convenient, and we didn’t want to pay $4 for bottles in the refrigerator. There’s very good complimentary coffee on the second floor, but I was surprised there wasn’t a coffee maker in the room. They did bring coffee cups and a microwave, neither of which was standard in the room. I bring my own electric kettle to make pour-overs wherever I go. I also think the rooms need light-blocking drapes. The sheer blinds didn’t block the outdoor lights, so it wasn’t very dark at night, even on the fifth floor facing the ocean.

What we loved most was the staff, who were so friendly and accommodating, especially with dietary restrictions. Andrea and the chefs were especially wonderful. We felt we were getting personalized attention as if we were the only guests there. The food and service were amazing. The resort itself is beautiful and well maintained, with a spa experience that’s a must-do. The best snorkeling on the island is right on the property. We’re already planning a return trip.

The people who looked after us made this stay unforgettable. Right from arrival, front desk staff Elvin, Belkis, Dominique, Witsel, and Drivin gave us warm, professional attention and made us feel like VIPs. It felt like they cared for us as family. Sonny and Jordan, the bellmen, were always ready to help with a smile, and Lia, the concierge, gave us such good recommendations that each day was easy to plan and full of adventure. By the pool, Byron made our afternoons relaxing, fun, and personal. His kindness and attentiveness made us feel cared for. Terrista, the bartender, mixed some of the best cocktails we’ve ever had, and her positive energy made every bar visit a joy. Kimpton Grand Roatán is beautiful, with delicious food and incredible snorkeling just steps from shore. West Bay Beach is unbelievably lovely, with clear turquoise water and soft white sand. From our room, we had breathtaking views each morning, with Caribbean blue stretching to the horizon. Sunrises and sunsets felt like movie scenes, and we kept stopping to take it all in. Thank you, Kimpton Grand Roatán, for a trip we’ll treasure. We’re already planning to return!