Fodor's Expert Review Occidental Grand Xcaret

The Occidental Grand Xcaret is that hard-to-find resort that actually brings something different to the table. Located just next-door to world-famous eco-archaeological park of Xcaret to which some guests enjoy direct access (depends on package acquired), it offers an interesting blend between a jungle-themed-park and all-inclusive hotel.

room

With several all-inclusive levels, it’s hard to find common ground between the 789 rooms of the hotel. Maybe they all share a contrasting décor between dark wood furniture and neutral colors walls and linen. All rooms enjoy balcony or terrace, although views may vary between garden, pool or sea. Some balconies come with a small round table and two chairs, while others include comfy sofas and hammocks.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Some rooms enjoy free Wi-Fi access, while others have to pay an extra fee for the service. Make sure to ask the kind of service you’ll get before choosing your ‘all-inclusive’ package.

bathroom

The lower-level bathrooms have ample space but just one bathroom-sink and shower. On the other hand, the Royal Level suites include double sink, separate shower and jetted pool, on an elegant dark-green marble setting. All rooms offer high-end Italian Lavarino Cosso toiletries.

lobby

The lobby of Occidental Grand Xcaret is a well-executed, excellent design that mixes pink and white marble floors with exquisite fountains, while also introducing wooden floors, stony-paths, artificial rivers and lagoon, lush vegetation and the unavoidable thatched-roof palapa.

pool

There are five fresh water swimming pools, one adults-only salt-water pool, a pool for children, an exclusive Royal pool and even a man-made, wave-free little bay that in practice works as an extra pool. All this hasn’t even considered yet the endless possibilities available at Xcaret Park where swimming with dolphins is one of the most popular attractions.

The salt-water relaxation pool is one of the few spots where one can actually enjoy some peace and tranquility in this activity-filled resort. Surrounded by stone floor and a small stretch of artificial beach, it offers great ocean views with no kids around.

spa

The Spa is a well-appointed establishment that has taken care of the little details that make the difference between good and excellent. The massage cabins provide an in-the-jungle atmosphere perfect for relaxation, something also achievable at the sauna and Jacuzzi areas.

gym

If the amazing display of activities available for guests is not enough to kill the workout bug in you, a well-equipped fitness center offers a diversity of cardio and strength machinery, just as a free weight section and training sessions on request.

dining

With eleven restaurants at your disposal, we are sure you will find some interesting gastronomic options. There are 2 buffets and 5 a la carte restaurants, plus an exclusive one for Royal Level guests. Apart from that, you have a daytime snack, a pizzeria and a taqueria for the nightly hours. The ocean front restaurant El Pescador, is a exquisite option for fine seafood dining.

drinking

The swim-up bar and the couple of poolside bars are unsurprisingly the most popular during the day hours. If there is an important match, there is no need to worry as the Sports bar is there for people us who can disconnect from job-related worries, but not NFL or NBA-related matters. At night, you should visit Palenque, a night club open from 10:30 pm to 2:00 am.