8 Year Hiatus

[2good4better]

We were last at Desire in 2016 and that was our 11th consecutive annual trip. Over those years we had really good times and met some great people. But life got in the way and we haven't been back since. Now, we are considering going back for 2024.

Since we started going just after the hurricane rebuild, Desire had stayed the same for most of that time. The biggest change was the remodel of the disco and playroom which happened in 2010. They also added the roof between the pool bar and the restaurant at some point during our trips.

But now I'm a little curious how much of the resort has changed since 2016. From looking at the photos on the Desire web site it appears much like we remember it. If the physical resort has stayed mostly the same, has the atmosphere changed much? Can anyone who has been there recently as well as years ago comment?

[BashfulDesires]

Pool was all new in 2017, they added four 2-story rooms with a big private pool by removing a block of Ocean View suites around 2018, lobby area had the fountains removed at some point as well.

Another big change was the beach has been reduced significantly and water quality is worse due to the sea-grass. CiCi is no more, and it's now a rebuilt beach bar after the last Hurricane from 2021. Bar is where the Gazebo was.

The big news is the Eden expansion to the vacant lot next door which will be complete in Feb 2024 - 40 new rooms, new lobby, new gym/spa, new disco, new hot tub, new pool, two new restaurants - Mediterranean & Mexican. How that changes the vibe is yet to be seen but we're looking forward to enjoying the quiet pool on our trip next Spring. Sold out the resort will have 300 people there, and we too have enjoyed the quaint vibe of knowing everyone by the end of our 3rd night.

Peak Covid vibe was definitely off, lots of first timers, less nudity. It seems to have reverted back to normal based on our March trip, good vibes all around with stellar clientele!

[2good4better]

Well, we've made our reservation to return next April. Regardless of what happens with the physical part of the resort, our hope is the atmosphere that we remember from all of our trips is still there.