The Veranda Resort And Residences

Our villa felt like a private paradise, with a wrap-around balcony overlooking Grace Bay Beach. It was spacious and spotless, beautifully furnished with European-inspired touches. The layout had a gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, big living and dining areas, and several bathrooms. The kids came to visit, and we agreed this was much better than the resort we’d booked first, and cheaper. The extra bedroom was perfect for the grandkids to stay overnight. We hadn’t planned to stay here. Another all-inclusive resort messed up one of our family room reservations and wouldn’t apologize or help, so my husband and I scrambled to find a backup. We found The Somerset on Grace Bay, and stayed June 7th-11th. It lived up to its reputation for elegance and calm. The white sand and turquoise water are beautiful, with direct beach access just steps away. There’s a lap pool, and the lush grounds are peaceful and well maintained. With only 53 units, it never felt crowded. The staff were warm and attentive. The concierge arranged our snorkeling trip, and the beach team set up umbrellas and chairs. LunaSea’s food was delicious, and the relaxed luxury suited both couples and families. The views were stunning. We loved this hidden gem and will be back!

We rented a spectacular five-bedroom penthouse, and the staff were so friendly: Nadine, AJ, Big Daddy, Ronaldson, and Billy. The pool and beach were beautiful, and Tuesday’s party was a lot of fun. We’ll be back!

The main draw here is the beachfront, with beautiful Grace Bay and a pool beside the beach. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, though a bit outdated. That wasn’t my main issue. The tiny lotion, shampoo, and body wash bottles weren’t replaced automatically, even during our six-night stay. I usually ran out unless I called to ask. Service was poor for the price. I’ve stayed at hotels around the world at similar rates, and that kind of price should mean consistent, good service. It didn’t happen at Somerset. The breakfast included with the stay was a hassle and a bit of a joke. My simple order was right only once in five mornings, and the included choices were very limited. Everything else cost extra. On our last morning, after four times ordering the same thing, a waitress said the surcharge was higher than before and wouldn’t discuss it. We waited an hour for food, then had to leave for the airport with badly burnt pancakes in takeaway boxes. People who arrived after us with more complicated orders were served first. Beach food and drink service was hit and miss, even on dry days when we stayed out there for six hours or more. Some days we just hoped someone would come by. A pina colada smoothie could take an hour, and the tzatziki was watery sour cream in a tiny container for the price. Sometimes staff gave us attitude when we tried to place an order. I raised concerns very kindly with management once and was told, “I’m sure it will be much better tomorrow.” I didn’t bring it up again. We also booked the hotel’s private airport transfer for $150 before tip, for a 15-minute drive. It arrived more than 30 minutes late. My three-star rating feels fair, despite the property’s 4.6 rating. The beach and pool are lovely, but a beautiful beachfront doesn’t excuse poor service at these prices.

The beautiful Grace Bay location may explain the high rating, but I’d put the hotel closer to 3-3.5. We stayed with two other families and saw three units in the Sterling building, two two-bedroom units and one one-bedroom. The resort never felt crowded, and we found nice beach seats every day. Free water on the beach was a nice touch. Breakfast was slow, though the servers were friendly and the food decent. The units all had different designs, and every one felt dated and tired. Our bed was comfortable, but the kids slept on the pullout sofa, and without blackout curtains nobody could sleep in. The TVs barely worked and looked at least ten years old. The showers were gross and needed a deep clean or remodel. We walked into town and a dog nearly attacked us, so a taxi or bike may be safer. The beach barbecue was a major letdown: we paid $65 plus fees per person for inedible food, with no drinks included, not even water. The water bottles they handed us were covered in sand, and then they charged another $150 for drinks. My husband got really sick after eating and had to leave soon afterward. Avoid it. The entertainment wasn’t good either. A DJ would have been better than someone singing karaoke all night, and the fire breather was uncomfortable and weird to watch. I’ve stayed in hotels at all price levels, and we won’t be back.