We have gone to Secrets Akumal, Cap Cana, and just got back from Maroma. We love them all! We are considering this resort for next summer. Decisions, decisions! Great video, thank you!
Great video- makes me miss it so much! FYI for anyone staying in a double - those bathroom doors are completely solid. Only King rooms have the slatted doors. For me, Preferred Club all the way! My Motulenos and Chia Pudding were highlights at Seaside breakfasts and those things were unlike anything we could get at the buffet. (that said- we also had very good breakfasts there!) I also loved the preferred club pool, the super cushy loungers, and being able to have upgraded liquor options throughout the day. The bartenders, especially Humberto, Mario, and Mauro, were also a next level up as far as mixology goes. I loved, loved, loved this resort- even without the spa, gym (which I did miss the most!), theater, or nightclub, it was such a great trip!
@@kimberlylinham we had Mario several evenings in the main bar, he was amazing with his drinks! I’m glad he was out and about all over the resort so everyone can experience some of the mixologists there :)
@@HeatherTravelsXO That is great to hear! Yes! Everyone should get to have crafted drinks! I did speak with the Food and Bev manager and I know Mixology is something they hope to evolve, which I was very happy to hear and I think will make them even more competitive with Atelier. We head back there next month, and I am VERY excited, but man... I could easily drive a bit further north and settle right back at SPB!
Another awesome video review. My wife and I are also with DV and have been relying on your reviews for our personal trips as well as recommendations to clients. Hope to catch you at one of the DV conferences or other events.
I've never gone to a Resort in Mexico but this Place looks Amazing. I'm thinking about booking a Trip to Mexico sometime next year. 😊 Thank you for your Review on this Particular Resort.
We are Valentin Imperial devotees and I'm wondering how this resort stacks up. It looks pretty amazing but I'm afraid that we might be disappointed due to our Valentin experience that we know, love and count on. Price point?
Beautiful resort we are fans of secrets but we prefer a more up beat vibe not spring break but we usually do close the clubs quiet and chill definitely not us I think you guys are the same so might have to wait and see a video on the new nightlife
I've always thought of Secrets Maroma and Cap Cap Cana as kind of the flagship Secrets properties I'm wondering how you and anyone else watching this feels Playa Blanca compares to those? I'm looking at prices for next winter and it seems like this place is as much or more than Maroma and Cap Cana. Great video as always, thanks!!
Oooh this looks amazing. Great video. I'm booked to stay at Secrets Maroma end of October. Now considering switching. Have you stayed at Maroma? If so which do you prefer?
Great video as usual! Thanks so much!! Look forward to your vids! You probably didn't have to deal with this being travel advisors, but how was the timeshare push? We loved Secrets Cap Cana but the EVERY DAY timeshare push and, therefore, trying to avoid them, put a damper on our vacation.
@@kellygosselin5955 even before we were TAs, we wouldn’t even let them finish their first sentence about timeshares when checking in making it very clear we were not interested. I think some people don’t wanna come off as rude but you have to put your foot down as nicely as possible.
New subscriber to your travel channel. Might have to check this place out! Usually I head down to Hilton La Pacifica resort in Cabo but maybe next year I’ll try this resort. Thanks for posting this content. I enjoyed the information you provided.
question about the preferred club bag. same question @ excellence RC! The "beach/pool" bags in room: can those be taken w/our additional room charge? we really liked the ERC bag but didn't want to pay an arm & leg for it a day later. ALSO: can a TA beat the book direct price? I have tried both ways but don't know if my TA was "testing" me since I was a new customer... great vids! thank you!
Yes we kept the bag!!! And I can’t personally speak for every TA, we personally always go with our best priced vendor and we price watch our clients vacations so when we notice the price drops (which happens all the time) we change it which helps our clients save even more :) I share live stories on my IG as well as our travel facebook page on how often we change pricing for clients! It definitely helps our business more to be honest and not price gouge like I know some agents do!
All things included would you recommend this over Sandals? We been to Sandals in Antigua but the price points I do see us going back to another Sandals when we have been to Secrets and Excellence for a lot cheaper.
Absolutely! lol we’ve been to a few sandals and they just don’t compare honestly. They are so expensive and a little overhyped in my opinion. I like how they have their resorts in unique locations, but for what they charge..I just haven’t been super impressed with that brand.
is there a sports bar? and any where to eat in the evening that does not require pants for men and allows caps. ty we are booked for 2025 I am considering cancelling our preferred club I have seen others say its not really worth it thanks again for the video
No, that was personally one of our only issues here was there was not much to do at night or hang out at other than the little outdoor bar. Now I just heard their nightclub opened as well as their theater so hopefully that will be improved. But if you’re looking for a quiet laid-back resort, this is a good option.
@HeatherStylesXO thank you can you think of any resorts that do not require pants for men at dinner he is shorts nice shirt and cap, geez it's hot thanks
@@deborahandrus897 it really wasn’t bad with the heat and they keep their restaurants very cold. A lot of higher end resorts will make men wear long pants around this area. Check out Haven though, I have a video on it. It’s a nice adults only resort and they didn’t make my husband wear pants… they only had one restaurant required them.
It seems like Secrets resorts need 1-2 years after opening, to get up to speed. I remember this was the story with Maroma Beach back in the day. I used to really enjoy Secrets (Capri, Silversands, Akumal) but now the prices for Canadians are $6-$9000 per person CAD which is simply to much. I'm heading to Haven for 11 days in October, so thanks for that amazing review!
I thought this Secrets did an amazing job for just opening 🤗 After all of my trips over the years, I have come to find no resort will be absolutely perfect. But yes, Secrets definitely have a higher price tag unfortunately! Have a great trip at Haven, it’s a beautiful property!
When the spa opens are massages included or extra? Also, how much do you recommend to tip and do you tip after each meal? Never been to an all inclusive
@@hernandezfamily9523 spa services are always extra just like excursions. Tipping is totally optional and can be different with everyone. If you need help with planning, feel free to reach out to us by email :) Topowell@dreamvacations.net
If you had to choose between this one and Secrets Akumal which one would you go to?? I am traveling with family, my mom struggles a bit with her knee to walk so don’t want a super big hotel. Thank you!!
Going there this week!! Is the water and ice safe to drink from restaurants? I keep hearing not to drink Tap water in mexico but what about at dinner and the bars at the resort?
@@diamiddleton3720 we have never had issues! We ALWAYS drink lots of water with how hot it gets there. All the resorts filter or bring fresh bottles to pour from. Definitely different then 20 years ago! lol Don’t drink the pool water or in your shower and you’ll be fine 😜
@@MrLucoca4 feel free to send us an email if you need booking help! All kinda depends on travel dates and what your wanting to spend :) @topowell@dreamvacations.com
People want to knock Mexico and it's so unfair. We have been to numerous Mexican resorts and have yet to have a bad experience! Food, amenities, water is beautiful, staff is friendly and helpful. I find a big difference in service between Mexico and all of the Caribbean island countries. Please don't go to Mexico for your vacation so we can continue to enjoy it not being so crowded. Haha
The resorts might be ok, but it only takes one “bad experience” and you’ll be changing your username to Stockholm Syndrome 6851. There’s a reason why the Mexican resorts are uncrowded. Having been to both, I’ll stick with the Caribbean.
Thanks for a great video again - I think this property is beautiful but it is helping me confirm that I think Impressions Moxche is the place for us. My FH is an active vacationer and I am the opposite so I think there will be lots more options for the two of our needs at Moxche.
@@garyhargrove8300 Not personally, but we have sent lots of our clients there! It’s a nice property. Not as lux as some secrets can be but the pricing is really good compared to others in that area :) A good band for your buck I would say!
Does anyone know if the construction has been fully finished and all areas are fully operational?? i was looking into going down there next month, thanks
@@HeatherTravelsXO thanks, so everything else is fully completed then including the entertainment venues? do you know when the spa will be finished? i would go there week of august 13th
@@1mama402 tip at your discretion! That’s one reason we love all inclusives over cruises… everything is included from Wi-Fi to restaurants, coffee shops, and you can tip however you want! :)
@@HeatherTravelsXO that’s awesome! Yes we have been considering switching over, we have been cruising for years and do enjoy it buts made a shift since Covid not only in pricing but service and quality as well. As we get older the need to get off in ports and explore is less, the idea of staying put at an all inclusive is more appealing. Thanks for your response, I just subbed to the channel looking forward to your videos.
@@1mama402 I've never been on a cruise and have only done all inclusive trips in Mexico. You will LOVE it if you find the right place for your style. Check in...relax...and spend the last couple days trying to figure out how you could just blend in and somehow stay there for the rest of your life! Hahaha
Great informed video. Too bad not many family resorts with overall quality built. Not easy to find great ones when we have little ones. But so many options for adult only resorts. I guess hotels don't like little kids. 😅
My kids I guess aren’t too picky! They have loved Planet Hollywood, Moon Palace, Ibeorstar even the 3-4 star resorts like Barcelo! If you have the budget and want the best, go to Hotel Xcaret! It’s 5 stars all the way but be prepared to pay that sticker price if that’s what you want!!!
I can't wait to go back to Mexico!! I absolutely LOVE The Secrets brand. This resort looks amazing!!! Thanks for the info and video. ❤
We have another Secrets resort coming in the next few weeks! They are truly one of the best all-inclusive chains ❤️
We have gone to Secrets Akumal, Cap Cana, and just got back from Maroma. We love them all! We are considering this resort for next summer. Decisions, decisions! Great video, thank you!
@@larissakollanda1782 what’s your favorite out of those I have to ask?!
@@HeatherTravelsXO Maroma. We really liked the preferred beach area and restaurant, the lobby lounge, and the overall vibe.
We loved secrets akumal but have always wanted to go to Maroma.. What was your experience between the two??
Try any of them in Jamaica. There are several right in a row in Montego Bay including a Breathless a Dream's, I think and 2 Secrets.
I love the vibe these new Secrets resorts have. Really beautiful
Great video- makes me miss it so much!
FYI for anyone staying in a double - those bathroom doors are completely solid. Only King rooms have the slatted doors.
For me, Preferred Club all the way! My Motulenos and Chia Pudding were highlights at Seaside breakfasts and those things were unlike anything we could get at the buffet. (that said- we also had very good breakfasts there!) I also loved the preferred club pool, the super cushy loungers, and being able to have upgraded liquor options throughout the day. The bartenders, especially Humberto, Mario, and Mauro, were also a next level up as far as mixology goes. I loved, loved, loved this resort- even without the spa, gym (which I did miss the most!), theater, or nightclub, it was such a great trip!
@@kimberlylinham we had Mario several evenings in the main bar, he was amazing with his drinks! I’m glad he was out and about all over the resort so everyone can experience some of the mixologists there :)
@@HeatherTravelsXO That is great to hear! Yes! Everyone should get to have crafted drinks! I did speak with the Food and Bev manager and I know Mixology is something they hope to evolve, which I was very happy to hear and I think will make them even more competitive with Atelier. We head back there next month, and I am VERY excited, but man... I could easily drive a bit further north and settle right back at SPB!
The rooms and especially the swimouts like pretty spectacular here. Great review thank you - this property completely unknown to me until now.
Another awesome video review. My wife and I are also with DV and have been relying on your reviews for our personal trips as well as recommendations to clients. Hope to catch you at one of the DV conferences or other events.
great video, good editing, great job
I've never gone to a Resort in Mexico but this Place looks Amazing. I'm thinking about booking a Trip to Mexico sometime next year. 😊 Thank you for your Review on this Particular Resort.
@@jr.classics6190 Glad you enjoyed it ❤️
We are Valentin Imperial devotees and I'm wondering how this resort stacks up. It looks pretty amazing but I'm afraid that we might be disappointed due to our Valentin experience that we know, love and count on. Price point?
Yay! I missed your travel videos!
@@AntoinettePaladino lots more coming this year ❤️
@@HeatherTravelsXOI can’t wait! ❤
New subscriber here. Love this place and your style!
@@valsquyres Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️
Hi Heather. Have you & your Husband been to Excellence Playa Mujeres Cancun Resort?
Beautiful resort we are fans of secrets but we prefer a more up beat vibe not spring break but we usually do close the clubs quiet and chill definitely not us I think you guys are the same so might have to wait and see a video on the new nightlife
@@thebraz21 yes!! I think it would have been more our vibe with the nightclub and better entertainment during the day, but still a beautiful resort!
I've always thought of Secrets Maroma and Cap Cap Cana as kind of the flagship Secrets properties I'm wondering how you and anyone else watching this feels Playa Blanca compares to those? I'm looking at prices for next winter and it seems like this place is as much or more than Maroma and Cap Cana. Great video as always, thanks!!
Just booked this same room/type for Nov. Looking forward to going !! Coming from NC.
Will be visiting for 2 nights to celebrate my wife Birthday there in Oct 5🎉🎉
@@pedromunoz4468 Hope yall have an amazing time ❤️
@HeatherStylesXO thank you we will be comparing it to impression Isla mujeres we were there last year 2x it was amazing
@@pedromunoz4468 aghh that resort is AMAZING!!!! Definitely on a whole different level! lol but Blanca is nice as well!
Ouuu this is is gorgeous 😍
The place looks great!
Next Up: Adults only cruise 😜🎉
@@Nick-mk9no going in November!!! 🎉
Oooh this looks amazing. Great video. I'm booked to stay at Secrets Maroma end of October. Now considering switching. Have you stayed at Maroma? If so which do you prefer?
Great video as usual! Thanks so much!! Look forward to your vids! You probably didn't have to deal with this being travel advisors, but how was the timeshare push? We loved Secrets Cap Cana but the EVERY DAY timeshare push and, therefore, trying to avoid them, put a damper on our vacation.
@@kellygosselin5955 even before we were TAs, we wouldn’t even let them finish their first sentence about timeshares when checking in making it very clear we were not interested. I think some people don’t wanna come off as rude but you have to put your foot down as nicely as possible.
New subscriber to your travel channel. Might have to check this place out! Usually I head down to Hilton La Pacifica resort in Cabo but maybe next year I’ll try this resort. Thanks for posting this content. I enjoyed the information you provided.
Thanks so much ❤️❤️❤️
question about the preferred club bag. same question @ excellence RC! The "beach/pool" bags in room: can those be taken w/our additional room charge? we really liked the ERC bag but didn't want to pay an arm & leg for it a day later.
ALSO: can a TA beat the book direct price? I have tried both ways but don't know if my TA was "testing" me since I was a new customer...
great vids! thank you!
Yes we kept the bag!!! And I can’t personally speak for every TA, we personally always go with our best priced vendor and we price watch our clients vacations so when we notice the price drops (which happens all the time) we change it which helps our clients save even more :)
I share live stories on my IG as well as our travel facebook page on how often we change pricing for clients! It definitely helps our business more to be honest and not price gouge like I know some agents do!
It looks like you are using a 360 cam in your videos. I was curious as to which one and your thoughts on it.
Great video thank you!
Great video,thanks!!!
All things included would you recommend this over Sandals? We been to Sandals in Antigua but the price points I do see us going back to another Sandals when we have been to Secrets and Excellence for a lot cheaper.
Absolutely! lol we’ve been to a few sandals and they just don’t compare honestly. They are so expensive and a little overhyped in my opinion.
I like how they have their resorts in unique locations, but for what they charge..I just haven’t been super impressed with that brand.
Great review, thank you!
Nice video.
is there a sports bar? and any where to eat in the evening that does not require pants for men and allows caps. ty we are booked for 2025 I am considering cancelling our preferred club I have seen others say its not really worth it thanks again for the video
No, that was personally one of our only issues here was there was not much to do at night or hang out at other than the little outdoor bar. Now I just heard their nightclub opened as well as their theater so hopefully that will be improved. But if you’re looking for a quiet laid-back resort, this is a good option.
Great question! Disappointing answer heh
@HeatherStylesXO thank you can you think of any resorts that do not require pants for men at dinner he is shorts nice shirt and cap, geez it's hot thanks
@@deborahandrus897 it really wasn’t bad with the heat and they keep their restaurants very cold. A lot of higher end resorts will make men wear long pants around this area.
Check out Haven though, I have a video on it. It’s a nice adults only resort and they didn’t make my husband wear pants… they only had one restaurant required them.
@@HeatherTravelsXO thank you
I’m a Secrets guy been to Maroma Beach and Puerto Cabos next is this one or Cap Cana
It seems like Secrets resorts need 1-2 years after opening, to get up to speed. I remember this was the story with Maroma Beach back in the day. I used to really enjoy Secrets (Capri, Silversands, Akumal) but now the prices for Canadians are $6-$9000 per person CAD which is simply to much. I'm heading to Haven for 11 days in October, so thanks for that amazing review!
I thought this Secrets did an amazing job for just opening 🤗 After all of my trips over the years, I have come to find no resort will be absolutely perfect. But yes, Secrets definitely have a higher price tag unfortunately! Have a great trip at Haven, it’s a beautiful property!
When the spa opens are massages included or extra? Also, how much do you recommend to tip and do you tip after each meal? Never been to an all inclusive
@@hernandezfamily9523 spa services are always extra just like excursions.
Tipping is totally optional and can be different with everyone. If you need help with planning, feel free to reach out to us by email :)
Topowell@dreamvacations.net
If you had to choose between this one and Secrets Akumal which one would you go to?? I am traveling with family, my mom struggles a bit with her knee to walk so don’t want a super big hotel. Thank you!!
@@anga8122 Akumal is bigger so probably Blanca!
Going there this week!! Is the water and ice safe to drink from restaurants? I keep hearing not to drink Tap water in mexico but what about at dinner and the bars at the resort?
@@diamiddleton3720 we have never had issues! We ALWAYS drink lots of water with how hot it gets there. All the resorts filter or bring fresh bottles to pour from. Definitely different then 20 years ago! lol
Don’t drink the pool water or in your shower and you’ll be fine 😜
Where would you recommend for middle budget, good food and good nightlife? 7 nights in January or February
@@MrLucoca4 feel free to send us an email if you need booking help! All kinda depends on travel dates and what your wanting to spend :)
@topowell@dreamvacations.com
I just emailed you
Unfortunately Phase 3 won't be finished till Sept 2024 and I'm going in August 😔
People want to knock Mexico and it's so unfair. We have been to numerous Mexican resorts and have yet to have a bad experience! Food, amenities, water is beautiful, staff is friendly and helpful. I find a big difference in service between Mexico and all of the Caribbean island countries. Please don't go to Mexico for your vacation so we can continue to enjoy it not being so crowded. Haha
you can have it I’m on a Caribbean tour 😂
The resorts might be ok, but it only takes one “bad experience” and you’ll be changing your username to Stockholm Syndrome 6851. There’s a reason why the Mexican resorts are uncrowded.
Having been to both, I’ll stick with the Caribbean.
@@davegriffith6409good for you 🤡
Agreed. I went to the DR last year and it was fucking shit. The people were rude, the chicken was raw. Just trash.
@@elleendeavor6429 a lot of these problems go with the picking of resorts
What's included in your stay? Meals?
@@marleneborrero328 yep! All-Inclsuive is all food and drinks :)
I would like to know if the Balinese beds are included with the preferred club
No they still make you pay for them 😕
Thanks for a great video again - I think this property is beautiful but it is helping me confirm that I think Impressions Moxche is the place for us. My FH is an active vacationer and I am the opposite so I think there will be lots more options for the two of our needs at Moxche.
@@marleyyates2995 we preffered Moxche as well!
Have you been to Secrets Royal Beach in Punta Cana?
@@garyhargrove8300 Not personally, but we have sent lots of our clients there! It’s a nice property.
Not as lux as some secrets can be but the pricing is really good compared to others in that area :) A good band for your buck I would say!
Does anyone know if the construction has been fully finished and all areas are fully operational?? i was looking into going down there next month, thanks
@@IZzZLLe spa is not finished yet
@@HeatherTravelsXO thanks, so everything else is fully completed then including the entertainment venues? do you know when the spa will be finished? i would go there week of august 13th
We have never been to an all inclusive (we usually cruise) how does gratuity work at AI’s?
@@1mama402 tip at your discretion!
That’s one reason we love all inclusives over cruises… everything is included from Wi-Fi to restaurants, coffee shops, and you can tip however you want! :)
@@HeatherTravelsXO that’s awesome! Yes we have been considering switching over, we have been cruising for years and do enjoy it buts made a shift since Covid not only in pricing but service and quality as well. As we get older the need to get off in ports and explore is less, the idea of staying put at an all inclusive is more appealing. Thanks for your response, I just subbed to the channel looking forward to your videos.
@@1mama402 I've never been on a cruise and have only done all inclusive trips in Mexico. You will LOVE it if you find the right place for your style. Check in...relax...and spend the last couple days trying to figure out how you could just blend in and somehow stay there for the rest of your life! Hahaha
Was there pool volleyball 🏐???
Yes! They do volleyball in the entertainment pool… there’s a shot of them playing in the video at mark 7:15
Thank you, I must have missed it. This is mandatory for me 😂
Great informed video. Too bad not many family resorts with overall quality built. Not easy to find great ones when we have little ones. But so many options for adult only resorts. I guess hotels don't like little kids. 😅
My kids I guess aren’t too picky! They have loved Planet Hollywood, Moon Palace, Ibeorstar even the 3-4 star resorts like Barcelo! If you have the budget and want the best, go to Hotel Xcaret! It’s 5 stars all the way but be prepared to pay that sticker price if that’s what you want!!!
Can u guide us galz for easy makeup hair that will.last in that heat
Yessss!!! We are heading on a trip next week and I will make sure to put something in the video about that 😉
$755 a night in November
@@hd4100 yep pricing has definitely increased!
What’s best adult resort for a single man 39 lol
Hurricane beryl on way
@@niceguy8305 lol this was 4 weeks ago