To save myself time writing and you some reading, I would like to refer you to my first review of this resort. It will provide you with a better understanding of what I write here.
First off, this time, did not rent a car. Used XPlore Costa Rica limousine service. VERY glad I did! They were very nice people to deal with and the drivers were outstanding and most professional. I would not hesitate to use them again for anything and highly recommend them.
The shuttle at the resort was sufficient to get to/from Tamarindo. especially if you have been there before. The price is reasonable considering gas prices have not gone down one cent since we have been enjoying the reduction. And, the schedule will allow you to spend as little as a few hours to just under ten hours.
Road to resort is still looking war-torn, so if you rent a car, beware!!! But to the resort's credit, the road inside the gated property has improved.
Now, to the resort itself.
Unlike last time, I spent six nights this stay, twice the length of my last visit and I can tell you, I loved it at LEAST twice as much!!!
Unfortunately, Jesus, the General Manager was not there and was told he was on vacation, as I would have loved to say Hola'. I believe that to be true because not once did I see him buzzing around the property, making sure things were running smoothly, like I witnessed during my last stay. Nevertheless, his assistant, Grace, was MOST amenable to making sure the stay was perfect. Although, I must say I did not see her buzzing around the resort as Jesus had.....
ROOM:
While I did not get the oceanview or oceanfront room, I can tell you that the rooms are spacious, clean, modern, with well maintained furniture/bedding. Got a garden view this time, which was quite nice, very quiet. In fact, the entire resort was very quiet, even though there had to be 3 to 4 times the number of guests this time around! Maid service was consistently great. I am sure the ocean view and ocean front rooms are much better for what they promote, the view, but you can get them on the beach too and after 6:30 PM it will be dark so you will see the same thing no matter where you are on the beach! They also have a number of rooms with private wading pools.
EATS:
I know I had said the breakfast buffet was not worth the $$, but I am saying you can make it work for you if you use your head.... Although the steakhouse had prices higher than was worth taking the chance on spending, I can tell you you can get a very good deal at Mansita. If you like tuna, the one on the menu is a very generous portion for the money. Get it rare. The beach BBQ art Azul was just OK. If you like your meat more on the rare side, just ask. Did not eat at the Japanese place.
POOL:
I can't say anymore than I have the last time, absolutely beautiful! Clean, well maintained, dare I say, spotless.
BEACH:
Surf is NOT forgiving! Be careful! Invest in a pair of those shoes that have traction and can be submerged. You won't regret it because the sand is very coarse and VERY hot! And they are invaluable if you dare to walk the beach during low tide, which I highly recommend. Go South (left) and hit a nice beach with a good place to eat (Lola's). Go North (right) and you can walk for hours! BUT, be mindful of the tide!!!! Venture out as the tide is nearly lowest and marvel at the sites you will see! Even a black sand beach!
GYM/SPA:
Unlike the last visit, I took FULL advantage of all the gym and spa had to offer for free and I cannot tell you how happy I did! Gym is more-than-equipped to suit the needs of most enthusiasts, with ellipticals, treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights, nautilus-style equipment. And, niceties like headsets, and chilled towels!!! And the spa! OMG! DO NOT pass it by! VERY relaxing place, unless you find yourself in the "tranquility area" with a woman who appeared to have just regained her ability to speak at the very moment you decided to take advantage of the peaceful area to try and relax. But, I digress.... Steam, sauna, relaxation pool, aromatherapy area, hot teas, cold water, fruits, trail mix, showers, hair/shaving products, showers. ALL for your pleasure at no additional charge! JUST what you want to have when you go away to relax. A HUGE SHOUT OUT to Austin!. He is a very conscientious worker who pays great attention to detail and who knows that the guests are his NUMBER ONE priority. Jesus! DO NOT let this man go! He has great potential and I would not be surprised he had his boss' job next time I visit. PLEASE be sure to give him my regards.
If I had anything negative to say, it would be the price of the soft drinks. While I understand the concept of a mark-up, I wish they would be a bit more amenable to free refills. Perhaps they can consider using kegs and carbonated water rather than individual cans. However, if you plan ahead you can avoid some of those costs. Also, while they slid a daily newsletter under the door each morning, which was greatly appreciated when trying to get a handle on the high and low tides and news around the world, the "Today's Activities" section could reflect what was really going on during the course of the day, which was next to nothing. Not a big deal if you do not enjoy any activities while lounging poolside though.
BOTTOM LINE:
Do not think twice about going to this resort. You will NOT be disappointed unless you are one of those who will never be happy. As any Marriott property I have stayed, if you have ANY problems all you have to do is tell someone and it will be fixed promptly and pleasantly. I will be back as soon as I can to enjoy all this resort has to offer and I hope you check it out too!