Mexico Adventures part dos
Between October 2020 and Feb 2021, I took 2 trips to Mexico and stayed at the same resort, so I’ve combined the review. This resort was a perfect find for a romantic getaway as well as a fun couples trip and it truly offered something for everyone.
Upon entering the El Dorado Royale property, we noticed an immediate difference from our time at the El Dorado Maroma (see Mexico Adventures Part Uno for more details). First, it’s much larger than the Maroma as it houses the adult only all-inclusive Royale, Casitas Royale and the family friendly Generations. The lobby is massive, but check-in both times I was at the property took less than 30 minutes. Our rooms were not ready, but you are given full access to the resort, so I advise you pack (or wear) a bathing suit and grab lunch while you wait. Also, my favorite martini bar was located right in the lobby, so be sure to stop into the Martini Bar for a welcome drink. The chocolate and lemon drop were classic goodies.
We opted to stay on the Casitas side which is mostly frequented by members and I found that the concierge didn’t seem to know if we were actually members or not, so we got several perks like eating at the members exclusive restaurant Thirty-two (aptly named because it’s found in the Thirty-two section of the property) and lounging in the premium Bali beds. Our room was a Honeymoon Swim up (an upgrade to a traditional swim-up because of our amazing travel agent) and it was HUGE! Another huge whirlpool right in the room, a chaise lounge, outdoor shower, double vanity sinks and porch with sun-bed that led right into our swim-up pool. We were able to stay in the 31 and 32 section of the Casitas during our 2 stays and both offered the same room type. Our swim-up connected directly to the Casitas bar so I never had to leave the pool to get a cocktail, win!
There are so many activities at this hotel. Even with COVID restrictions stopping some traditional things like the foam party (which is up and running now), there was always something to do. Whether enjoying one of the 12 restaurants or multiple bars, taking in a tequila tasting or checking out their on-site botanical area, there is never any shortage of fun.
My days were mostly spent on the beach or hanging at Fuentes saltwater pool or Kick beach area. This area offers the best beach views the resort has to offer. The majority of the beach is covered with sandbags (I’m told this is a leftover of Hurricane Irma, I haven’t fact checked that) so it’s not as beautiful as others I’ve seen. If you’re a beach person, I highly recommend the Maroma over this property for the aesthetics. There are literally pools at every individual building so there is never really any overcrowding and you’re able to spread out. Even at a higher capacity, I can’t imagine ever struggling to find a pool at this resort. We did have an issue finding towels, they’re located in little bins in each pool area, because they were often refilling.
The main pool, La Isla, is where all of the activities happen, from DJs to water aerobics. This area has Bali beds that you can reserve for premium placement or snag if you get there early enough. There is also a woodfire pizza grill and a cute little cart that sells coconuts you can fill with alcoholic delights. I didn’t spend a ton of time there, but if you want to be in the middle of it all, check this out.
I enjoyed the daily tequila tastings, which are included in the daily activities. For an extra $40 you can do a mezcal tasting, which I didn’t partake in. Both tastings include some really high-level tequila offerings and an opportunity to purchase them at a fair price. I loved the 1921 Crema, which is basically the tequila version of Bailey’s Irish Crème, a perfect addition to coffee.
The food at the El Dorado also falls into the gourmet exclusive category, similar to the Maroma, but has many more options. I never had a bad meal here, but my favorite restaurants were Kampai, which offers an Asian flair and D’Italia Casitas, which is Italian as the name would imply. The most interesting dinner, however, was at the Fuentes Dinner Theatre. For an extra $10/person, you are treated to a 4-course gourmet meal and interactive show. The show reminded me of the Emeril Lagasse Food Network days, with lots of lights and character. Fuentes starts you off with a complimentary blood orange Cointreau cocktail and then you’re seated to spend the next 60ish minutes enjoying a show. If you have food restrictions, they will try to accommodate you as well. The risotto at this restaurant could have been my entire meal! So delicious and I later found out that both Wine Kitchen and D’Italia have a similar version. They offer a wine pairing, but to me it wasn’t great, I did enjoy the glass of Veuve Clicquot, however.
I enjoyed exploring the property and usually started my days at the gym which was requiring reservations to limit occupancy. It was never difficult getting one and though the opening hours state 9AM, the doors always seemed to be unlocked earlier. After a workout, I walked around the property which is how I discovered the botanical garden and mini zoo with Frida the Crocodile as well as plenty of cool photo opps.
If you want to venture over to the property next door, Generations, you have access to several more restaurants and bars including the Chef’s Market, which is a great for lunch and Wine Kitchen which had a really delicious menu. Generations does allow children though so just know; your adult only oasis ends when you cross over to that side.
Each of the Casitas had a private concierge and the service was a little haphazard, but still got the job done. The concierge is willing to arrange most of your offsite activities as well as directing you around the property at hand.
On our second visit, we opted to leave the property to rent a yacht with our friends and take a trip to Isla Mujeres. It was a totally a splurge after spending so much of 2020 in the house, but a fun trip. I tend to get seasick, so boating isn’t always my favorite activity, but it was beautiful to speed across the ocean and enjoy the expansive waters. We used Cancun Yachts Club for the rental and service included a lunch and beverages while we enjoyed our half day outing.
Evening activities include nightly shows with fun and talented entertainment as well as an outdoor nightclub that stayed open until 2AM. It’s important to note that all pools and pool bars close at 5PM (though I did see people hanging out after without being asked to leave) so you’ll have to visit one of the shows or bars if you want to have cocktails. I spent most nights getting a nightcap at the Bellini Bar, but enjoyed Bar Guacamayas and the aforementioned Lobby Martini’s Bar. Also note, the shuttle service stops at 11PM and this place is PITCH black so walk in pairs or stay in the vicinity of your room.
Check out was relatively easy and the lobby will hold your luggage if you have a later flight. Even after two visits, I feel like there is still more that I could experience here so I would gladly return as both of my visits were fun filled and drama free, just the way I like vacation!
