I have read some threads on here but haven't gotten the full extent of this property. Can someone who has been there recently tell me if it is full of kids (going end of June '04), and if it is removed enough from the "Cancun Scene". We have been to Cancun before and the only thing we liked were the beaches.
Does the Ritz have really nice beach (nice sand, calm/clear water)? How is the pool, is it large enough for when the hotel might be full?
How is the spa?
Thanks for the info!
We are deciding between the Ritz in Cancun (for beach quality) and the new Four Seasons in Exuma (for beach quality as well). I have read that there are many problems with the FS since it is so new, but would love to go to Exuma as I hear it is wonderful and we have already been to Cancun/Playa/etc.
Thanks again!

I haven't stayed at the Ritz, but I've walked by when I was staying a few hotels down. I can tell you that the ocean here is very beautiful and the sand, pure white and soft, may be the most beautiful ocean sand ever !

It is definitely removed enough from the party scene, too. No worries there.

The calmness of the water changes -- when I was there in August, the water was calm, just perfect. But I hear it can be rough at times.

Thanks for the info. Anyone else on rooms, beachfront rooms, pool, etc.? Is Club level worth extra $$$?

I stayed at the Ritz last year. Very nice - beautiful rooms and common areas. The beach as the other poster said is fabulous. The pools are also great. Two of them - one shades over in the afternoon, so if you are getting too much sun, you can get some shade. Very expensive drinks and restaurants. I did not stay at club level - but I don't know why it would be worth it - unless you plan on spending more time in the hotel than outside. They have free drinks and light food. So - it just depends. There is free coffee in the lobby in the AM, but it goes quick. There is a seafood buffet on Friday night (or at least there was) that was excellent and a good value at approximately $55 per person. Again, drinks and restaurants are very expensive. It is a lovely hotel though. Pools were never crowded.

I have been to Exuma, but not to the new FS. Can't wait to try it. If it were me - I'd try FS - just for a change! FS is top rated - I don't think it could be even remotely "bad". I think sometimes people get too picky - I'd rather have a FS with a few minor glitches than any other hotel! I'm sure those bugs have been worked out by now!

Thanks. We are really leaning towards the FS in Exuma. If we go, we will post a trip report on the Caribbean board.

Thanks again.

Anyone know how the water / surf is around Mid-July? I understand the water has been rough lately with rip tides, etc. Has anyone been there lately and know how calm or rough it is? Also, how are Oceanfront rooms at the Ritz Carlton?

I just returned from the Ritz and it was fabulous. I got an ocreanfront suite (was upgraded) and the balcony is incredible. Room was impeccable (and I am picky when I'm paying that much). Pools were just okay, but it's hard to compete with the gorgeous beach. Miles of powder white sand and turquoise water. The water is not placid, it has waves... but it's still great for swimming. I rented my daughter a boogie board ($15 a day or $8 a half day) and she had a ball. The spa is marvelous, service at this hotel is incredible. The hotel was not full of kids, though there were some. The property is so large I don't see it being a problem. Try to reserve through your American Express card if you have one, I got a great deal through them; it included a free upgrade and a free breakfast every morning (which is worth it).
See my trip report on www.tripadvisor.com for more details.

I had been deciding between the Ritz and the FS Exuma too and only decided on the Ritz because it was easier to get to (one flight),and I was traveling with my daughter. If this is a romantic vacation, I would probably choose the FS.

Does anyone have experience with the club level at the Ritz? I am thinking about booking 6 nights the week after Labor Day and it is an extra $500 for the club level as opposed to a deluxe oceanfront room. Does it offer full meals, etc., full bar or just limited stuff? I'm not sure if we would use it enough to justify the extra money, and if we didn't would it be a waste? Any advice is appreciated!