Adult/Couples Only?: Yes
Time of Year/Weather: This visit was in early August 2003. The day was hot but somewhat cloudy.
Length of Trip?: 1 day (a tour of the third Riviera Maya property in the Karisma resort chain)
Was this an All-Inclusive Resort?: Yes
Approximate per person cost?: N/A
Were there any hidden or extra costs?: No.
Describe room accommodations (view, decor, cleanliness, etc.): We didn't see the inside of a regular junior suite, only one of the "casitas". These were quite nice, single story, set apart, and each had its own jacuzzi with an ocean view. The suites are in high-rise buildings, at least 5 floors in each. You can get a garden view, ocean view, or ocean front suite and all suites have hammocks on the patio or balcony.
Describe food/meals (presentation, quality, etc.): We ate at the La Isla restaurant for lunch. The food was average. The salad bar was small with little variety or choices. We had New York steak, which was fairly good. The drinks weren't very strong but were tasty. There are 6 bars on the property, including a juice bar for a healthy alternative.
Describe staff and service: Rather aloof. Not very interested in assisting the guests.
Onsite Activities: Several pools and hot tubs varying in size. Some watersports but the beach area is very rocky. There is also a spa on the property.
Overall Rating (10 being best)?: 5
Additional Comments: I was not impressed with this resort. It is the largest of the three and they are currently adding more buildings on the property. Supposedly the casitas are going to become a separate resort and there will be a family resort built on the south end of the current property. Even with the large size of this resort I found it to be crowded and uncomfortable. It was difficult to get a lounge chair or float at the pool. They made us return the pool float at 5pm because the activities hut closes at that time. According to the other guests, getting dinner reservations is quite difficult and should be attempted as soon as you arrive, making sure to book for the entire week. I would not recommend this resort from what we observed during our day visit.
Punta Brava, Mexico
