We would certainly go back to Tryp, the grounds are lovely, it was hot with a nice breeze, the staff was extremely helpful and friendly. Though the food was disappointing we had a terrific time.
Your Arrival:
The check-in was very fast. Though the front desk staff aren’t very friendly.
Rooms:
The room was aging but fine. Few rooms have a view of the ocean but most are a short walk to the pool and lobby and buffet. Our maid was terrific. We had problems with our TV, though we didn’t watch it much, but they fixed it right away.
Restaurants and Bars: The service at all of the bars was fast, though they do not have several of the drinks and mixes we are used to in Canada, such as club soda, scotch, pineapple and cranberry juice. The beer is okay. The bartenders did not seem to care whether you tipped or not, theey were just as fast and friendly. The food at the buffet was poor, you really have to be picky, though the breakfast omelets are good. Their orange juice is great. We had turkey one night which was great, sometimes the meat is not cooked enough, such as the hamburgers at the restaurant on the beach. Even when we went to an a la carte the food was disappointing.
Beach/Pools/Grounds: The main pool with the swim-up bar was terrific, with somewhat loud music but games and entertainment and a party atmosphere all afternoon. The other, smaller pool was very quiet.
The beach was amazing, with warm water and a cooling breeze.
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
The pizza place on the beach is excellent, with really friendly waiters. There is a very nice little lobster shack just down the beach with tasty lobster tales for $12, ask for Franklin. The entertainment was good, though much of it is provided by volunteers from the audience. There is very little to see around the hotel, though they have lots of avtivities for kids, plus tennis, etcetera.
Other Comments:
Be aware that you need to take cash to exchange for CUC (Convertible Cuban dollars). You can use VISA at the stores but to get a cash advance on your VISA you have to walk to the resort next door. You can not use you bank cards at all!