After much research, we decided to spend a week at the JW Marriott. We deliberately booked a non-all-inclusive resort, as we are big foodies and prefer to choose our own restaurants offsite. We also wanted to do day-excursions freely without feeling like we had to return to our resort to eat every meal. We are not fans of typical all-inclusive buffets, and loved yelping our way through local restaurants instead.
We thoroughly enjoyed the JW Marriott and would come back again.
Pros:
-Service is impeccable. Front desk, poolside servers, housekeeping, bell men, restaurant servers ... all employees are so kind, helpful, and just super sweet. The service makes a huge difference in peoples' experience, and they do amazingly.
- Several gorgeous pools, including swim up bar, infinity pool.
- Several hot tubs were clean and relaxing.
- Beachfront property. Just a few steps down from the pools and you're at the white sand beach.
- Walkable beach and hotel zone. If you love walking or jogging, there's plenty of oppty here. We ran almost every morning for miles.
- Close to many amazing restaurants within walkable distance.
- Super clean grounds and nice rooms. Very modern and updated.
- Fitness room is the best one I've seen in a long time - beach views! Clean equipment. Gets busy in the mornings, as people like this gym!
- On site restaurants were decent. The Sasi-Thai was our favorite lunch spot (expect Latin inspired food, not Asian)
- Brunch buffet available Sundays
- Live music available by lobby bar on weekends
Cons:
- Main downside is that food and drinks are typical Cancun-American prices. Expensive, but so is everywhere else along hotel zone.
- Bravio breakfast dishes weren't the best, but their Sunday brunch buffet looked a lot better (we didn't choose that).
- In room WiFi is super slow. But it's much faster once outdoors. Poolside and beachside cell service is great.
Overall: Highly recommend this place if you're looking for a resort without the all-inclusive package! Perfect for those not wanting to just spend their entire time within a resort. read more