After reading a number of negative reports about Pearl I was starting to wonder what had happened since our last trip in March-18.
What's New
- They have added a Coffee Shop in the lobby since our last visit that doubles as a late night Pizza / Taco Bar. Nice addition that provides an opportunity for a coffee and light snack in the morning as well as late night food offerings.
- They have a new Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Manager, both were highly visible during our stay and seemed genuinely interested in feedback.
- We noticed the Beach BBQ was used more frequently, even if it was just for hamburgers and hot dogs.
- They had a great saxophonist playing around the pool one afternoon. Nice Touch.
- The Hot Tub washrooms are fully functional, they just need to install flashing lights and arrows to remind people they are there. Come on people let's start using them...
Random Observations
- The Entertainment staff under the leadership of Charley and Kia did a terrific job. They have introduced a speed dating game in the pool and started a girls against the guys water polo game that has gone a long way in terms of reducing the ultra aggressive matches that quite frankly were not really fun anymore. Lilly the newest Play Maker from New Zealand is a nice addition.
- We were with a fairly large group of people (12 couples) and on two occasions they set up special dinners for our group outside on the patio next to UNIK. They did a tremendous job providing first class service and great meals. Hat's off to Lupe for his great organizational work.
- The Food and Service at the Pearl restaurant was excellent. I have not been a big fan recently but they have definitely stepped up their game.
- The Aphrodite Restaurant is in need of a face lift. The room is getting tired and the buffet area needs to be modernized. At a minimum an omelette station in the morning and perhaps some food stations in the evening would help to bring some life to the room. It is not so much the food but how it is being presented that needs to be improved. Chafing dishes with bunson burners are so 1970...
- No issue with alcohol, all brands available and no mysterious illnesses other than those self induced.
- The Seaweed has not gone away. It vanished one day only to come back with a vengeance the remainder of our stay.
- The staff remains the back bone of the resort, many of the same familiar people that continue to provide a level of service that is second to none.
- Panthers erotic show was a huge hit with the ladies...
- The temperature of the Hot Tub was consistent all week. Probably the best week we have experienced in many visits.
- Overall another good time at Pearl. Caught up with old friends and met some new ones as well.