Hello all, first time poster. Having fun reading all of the reviews. I am planning a surprise trip in Dec for my wife to Atlantis. A few questions...How are the crowds and weather in early December. Will she have a good time if she isn't thrilled by the beach and water? I expect all of the high prices. This just seems to be a place she has often talked about going to. She took me to Vegas for my Bday and wanted to return the favor.
Thanks in advance for your answers.

That's so funny because I similar question (except I am planning on going in July with my husband and 3-yr. old daughter). I am wondering about which Tower in Atlantis to book (Coral, Beach or Royal). I am currently leaning towards the Royal Tower but I keep readsing stories about how expensive everything is in Atlantis (especially the food i.e. $40 breakfast for 2 people). Someone please help me...I keep reading these nightmare stories about how over rated Atlantis is and I am now thinking maybe I should stay next door at the Riu All Inclusive Resort?

In doing some research, it seems that there is not much difference between the Royal and Coral Towers, except the price unless you are staying on a suite floor with the extra amenities. Do you know if the Riu gives you access to the Atlantis or will you need to get there and pay to use the grounds. Many people in the forum have said that there are smaller/ less expensive places to eat, in and around Atlantis. I do plan on having coffee/pastry for breakfast and having pizza delivered one night to the room as we are not big on gourmet eating.

Currently the high temps are low 70's and high 60's. I think it might be cool in December to enjoy the ocean and pools. We went in April several years ago (had a great time) and it was unseasonable cool and windy. You might try
www.tripadvisor.com and look up reviews for Atlantis in December. They also have a forum to help you plan out your vacation and ask questions. Don't be discouraged by some of the negative reviews. Some poeple love it and others hate it.

We loved the Atlantis. In addition to the water slides, there are so many neat things to do and see.

They have a new Aqua Adventure that looks awesome. Not sure if this has replaced the old one or if is in addition to the old one near the same area.

Stayed in the Royal Towers and, although pricey, really liked the convenience to the water slides, etc. Have read reviews by people who stayed in the Beach Tower area and they did not seem as happy with the Atlantis.

There is a very nice beach. However, when we were there, most people hung out at the pools instead of the beach.

There are also several fun excursions you can do - just check with the excursion center at the Atlantis (separate cost).

When we were there, it was late January and the weather was perfect for water sports, sunbathing, etc. The evenings got cool enough for a light jacket.

Is it worth the $$$ - can't answer that for you. To me, yes, it is well worth the $$$. Have stayed at several pricey resorts over the years and feel that the Atlantis offers more fun things to do than most.

Just got back from the Hyatt in Aruba, paid almost $400 per night (convention rate). For the near same price we paid at the Atlantis (again convention rate), there was a lot more fun things to do at the Atlantis.