Barcelo Tropical, Riviera Maya
submitted by Lois Sullivan - Bursch Travel Little Falls
The Barcelo is a very large resort consisting of the Barcelo Maya Beach & Caribe built first and is the least expensive property, Barcelo Tropical and Colonial and the Barcelo Palace followed. The resort was very clean and the grounds were well manicured and beautiful. If you study the map of the resorts which is given to you at check in it is very easy to get around the resort itself and outside areas are wheelchair accessible. A trolley also runs between the resorts I found you could walk to where you needed to go Oceanside a lot faster than taking the trolley. The rooms were very nice, beds were firm but comfortable, bathrooms walk-in shower and large bathtub. The Tropical has 5 different A la carte dining options Japanese, Seafood, Italian, Steakhouse and Mexican make sure you make reservations as soon as possible prime times fill fast. Very good food and great service while dining. The bar service was a little slower due to the time of year where they didn't have as many employees. They also have room service but charge a fee per item ordered.
I was upgraded to Premium Club but really didn't receive anything different than anyone else.
The shows in the evening were more professional and very entertaining.
They have massive pools and a great kids pool with water slides and shallow entrance. The beach I was told by many is the best in the area it is wide, long and walkable with many palms to shade you. Snorkeling was O.K in front of resort but if someone is into snorkeling recommend Xel-Ha or Xcaret.
I tried as many restaurants as I could and the food was very good in all of them also the buffet had many choices for breakfast and dinner. Snack bar was close to the ocean and served a great burger for lunch among many other choices.
I loved the great pool area and the cleanliness of the whole resort.
Just be patient when visiting Mexico. Also be cautious of wet tiles a girl fell by the pool and broke her arm. It is at least a 1 hour non-stop transfer from the airport to the hotel some had said the shared transfer can take 2-3 hours.
I saw all ages young and older and many families. I talked to 3 couples that had gotten married there and seemed to be very pleased. Also visited with many repeat guests that continue to return.
Bring a pool floaty with you and plenty of sunscreen prices were very high in the shops at the resort.