There were issues - but we'll be back.

[kijfhoek]

DOWNSIDE, we were to be picked up by a guy from the resort who was supposed to meet us but was on the phone and didn't make himself known until we had spend 10 min. waiting in a blistering heat with all our luggage outside the airport. When we finally got into the car the driver took us to the wrong resort (Riviera Maya) and only after much debate brought us to Pearl. It was late and, after a 12h trip, we were quite exhausted but all this took another hour. On arrival, the lounge/lobby (white, sterile, cold and unwelcoming) turned out to be still under construction and our hopes sank to a rather low point. We were told that this lounge/lobby had previously been in a very atmospheric colonial style with wood, bamboo etc., befitting the place and character of Desire Pearl, but apparently the management decided to "modernize" it which NOBODY that we spoke to was happy with, staff and guests alike. As a result the bar, in the same area, was so uninviting that seldom anyone visited it, not even for drinks before dinner at the adjacent restaurant. Our suite (nr 88) was fine but near a window the building was heavily damaged and there was absolutely no shade on our penthouse terrace, which made it impossible to be there during the day. Also it was difficult for the staff to properly heat our Hot Tub on the terrace so we had to cancel a Hot Tub drinks party with a few couples one evening. There were two very ugly and unstable light units near the Hot Tub which permanently emitted a blinding bright white light - fortunately a technician could switch them off; I cannot imagine why anyone would want them on.

UPSIDE. All the staff is great and with our Penthouse Suite (nr.88) came a "butler" who made us feel very welcome, he took care of our luggage and organized everything we wanted in our room, which was excellent, good airco, comfortable bed and with great view over the resort and sea. The bathroom was a bit poorly lit but otherwise fine. As for the resort itself; the pool area could be a bit noisy, especially when a show or fitness class were going on, but we could have the use of a Cabana on the beach which was more tranquil. We are around 60 and there were several people of our age who shared our preference for a bit of peace. The food was superb, as was the wine. Outside lunch by the pool highly recommended. And my wife has this to add: Ladies, dress VERY sexy at the bar and for dinner, here you can do it without any hesitation, even if you are not 25 anymore!