Hotel Royal Villas

We had a great time at the resort’s margaritas and dancing event. The pool was nice, and there’s direct access to a beautiful beach.

The balcony views are spectacular, and the beach is long and lovely. The place is decently clean, but this spot feels like it may have been a gem 30 years ago and has fallen behind since. Our Junior suite was spacious but poorly equipped: no dishcloth, empty salt, pepper, and sugar containers, and only one of the complex’s three ice machines was working. There was no drinking water, so we had to buy some at the convenience store. The lighting was dim, and we went without hot water for more than 12 hours one day. A bar across the street was noisy every night until at least 11pm, later on weekends. When there’s a wedding or another event on site, the building’s open layout lets the main-floor entertainment carry up through the whole place. We called the front desk a few times but got no answer. Hotel staff gave conflicting advice, and several front desk workers had limited or poor English.

Five days before we were due to check in, my mother was unexpectedly scheduled for emergency surgery on the day we were supposed to fly to Mexico. My family had looked forward to this trip for years and saved for just as long. I tried to cancel through Expedia right away but received no confirmation, then called the resort and explained the medical emergency to a manager. Royal Villas Resort wouldn’t offer a refund, credit, or even a chance to move the reservation to a later date. I understand it was their busy season, but I’d hoped for some compassion and flexibility. Along with the emotional strain of a family medical emergency, we’re now dealing with the loss of a trip we’d dreamed about and planned for so long. I’m sharing this so others know the resort won’t make exceptions, even for a medical emergency, and applies its policy rigidly regardless of the circumstances.

The staff were excellent at answering questions and providing service, and the location was great. The rooms have what one poster called dated luxury, but they were neat and clean. We felt it was good value for the week we stayed, and I’d stay here again.