First, the great things about Grand Mayan:
1) There is horseback riding on the beach, which is a fantastic experience! The sand is soft, so the ride is smooth. If you are a good rider, you can run a good stretch down the beach. When we were there (in Oct) the beach was nearly empty. $25 for an hour is a super deal.
2) There is a sea turtle sanctuary right on the beach. If you have never seen sea turtle hatchlings, it is wonderful to see these ancient, endangered animals up close. About one hundred hatchlings come out of each nest each morning at the sanctuary, and they release the hatchlings in the middle of the night. (note: don’t believe them when they tell you what time they will be released. We went every night but always missed them)
3) The facility and views are amazing. The beach is peaceful.
4) The room service pizza was delicious, as was the fondue at Mondo. The smoothies at the golf course are also good.
Frustrating things:
1) The chairs scrape loudly against the tile floors when housecleaning moves furniture in adjoining rooms, bombarding guests with horrible screeching noises and banging. We were unable to sleep in or take a nap the entire week because of the noise level. Also, one morning at 3 am the employees polished the hall floors with a very loud machine, depriving us of sleep.
2) In Oct, the train wasn’t running and it was difficult to find food after 6pm. The breakfast buffet was good but cost $20. The pools are great, though a little cold. The water park is a lot of fun. However, if you are an RCI (or other) guest and not a member of the Mayan group, you have to pay to enjoy the water park and there is a hefty fee if you turn in your towels late or lose your towel card.
















