Hilton HHonors - Hilton Cancun Resort - Recent Stays and Questions

Wife and I are planning some time away and have pretty much settled on a trip to Cancun in March. Looking to stay at the Hilton Cancun Golf and Spa Report. Planning to use combination of points and paid room nights to enjoy a long stay.

As a Diamond looking for recent experience with comp upgrade to nicer room/executive accomodations, comps for breakfast, afternoon/evening drinks/snacks, etc.

I did search the forum and have not found anything recent so looking for confirmation on how well this property treats Diamonds.

Thanks,
James

This is much discussed property, creating a new thread definitely wasn't needed.

Trip Reports
Cancun Hilton Trip Report (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=341276&highlight=cancun)

General information
Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=481003&highlight=cancun&page=9)

This is much discussed property, creating a new thread definitely wasn't needed.

Trip Reports
Cancun Hilton Trip Report (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=341276&highlight=cancun)

General information
Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort (http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=481003&highlight=cancun&page=9)


CheapElite - Actually, I've seen those threads and not much is very recent. So, hence the purpose of my post.

There is a detailed report from late December.

Imagine the confusion if every couple of weeks someone asked about Rome, Sydney, Paris or Cancun upgrades/experiences in a new thread.

Why not bump the existing thread?

@:-)

I am just about to cancel 2 nights award 13 and 14 if anyone is interested

I was at the Cancun Hilton in October and loved every minute of it. We were upgraded as Diamond to an oceanfront villa! Basically a week or so before arrival, I was emailed by the hotel concierge (^). I replied back and asked if possible could they upgrade us. They said they could do an upgrade to XX in the main building (don't remember what, but not a suite) or to a garden villa room. We choose the garden villa. When we checked in though, they stated an ocean villa had opened up and gave that too us without even asking!
The room was nice, although with lots of rain showers, the floors getting to the villa rooms became very, very slick. The housekeeping staff was great - always did something different with towel anamils, making the throw into various shapes, etc, etc.
The villa lounge was great. Nice breakfast and happy hour. The staff there were also excellent, actually every staff member at the hotel was great - even the people mowing the lawn would say Hi! Drinks for like 2 hrs are free, mid-day and later at night you have to pay for wine (and maybe other drinks avail for a fee too, do not remember).
I definitely want to go back there, as I loved the hotel and the pool area and I thought the service was excellent. Hope that helps.

If you don't get a room on the side with a hot tub (I believe it is a Jr suite or better) you should be upset. I went as a diamond a little while ago and contacted the mgr before I went. On an award stay, I paid $55 a night for my upgrade to the 8th floor suite, and it was werll worth it. having a personal hot tub overlooking the ocean at 11-12pm is the best thing ever. and only having to walk a few feet into the bed.......

We were there in Sept. 2007 and 2 weeks ago. Thought it was great. Nice beach, nice pool, and great staff. Upgraded both times on award stays. Nice breakfast in executive lounge as well. Plan to go back soon.

My husband and I also returned last week from a great stay at the Hilton Cancun, our 5th in the last 6 years. We were upgraded to a Junior Suite on an award stay. Great room, great facility, great breakfast, and great service. I'm sure we'll stay again.

Hi all,

In the process of planning our trip to Cancun (just booked the flights with CO, all with miles in First most of the way), and will also stay at Hilton Cancun. We were supposed to go there last year, but changed it last minute to Hilton Cabo when the hurricane was expected to hit (it bypassed them afterall)

Unfortunatley, we don't have the points for the entire week, so it will be a combo of 2/3 nights w/points, 4/5 night paid. Question: We want to ensure we get a room with a balcony, thus, should I pay the extra $30/night/room for the balcony, or just hope that we get one.

I am an HH gold and we will be going in mid-late August.

Thanks and looking forward to the trip.

All the best.

My husband and I were there June 2006. We booked our first few nights and payed for the villas. The next wo nights we used points and since they are two seperate reservations, those nights were booked in the tower. When we arrived and mentioned that we were Hilton Gold staying in the villas, they loaded our luggage into a golf cart and we were driven thru the property to the lounge. (felt like was on Fantasy Island) You don't have to ever go to the front desk. They check you in and out from the lounge. (It is their equivelent to the executive lounge but better.) It is here that we asked if we could stay in the villa for our award stay. It worked, but June is a slow month for Mexico (we may have had to pay a couple extra bucks but well worth it!)

We loved the villas! Only two stories (we were on the top)..right on the water, quiet..the lounge and the pool were about 100 yards away. If I forgot something in the room, I didn't have to walk in the hotel, up an elevator, etc. The hurricane did alot of damage so the rooms were all redone.

We checked in during evening happy hour, we were offered a cold beer or cocktail while we checked in. The food was big for a lounge. Taquitos, chicken wings, veg and cheese tray etc. Enough food that you could get away with skipping a meal. Breakfast was also great!

The staff was excellent. ALthough I find this alot in Mexico, the staff here either remembered our names or tried! The bartender new our drinks, lounge hosts greeted us every time with "Good Morning Mrs. ML70" etc.

We went to Waikaloa 6 months later and never felt like anyone knew we were there. (even the lounge staff)

My only complaint was the food at the restaurants wasn't the best. I would eat breakfast at the lounge, luch at the pool, and then go out for dinner.

I'm actually headed to the CUN Hilton tomorrow. The concierge e-mailed me last week and when I responded I did inquire as to the possibility of an upgrade.

I looked at my e-check in just now and says delux ocean front room third floor.

I know I shouldn't EXPECT an upgrade, that it's simply a nice bonus (based on availability) of being Diamond. To those who have been there, is a third floor delux ocean front pretty good or simply average? I'm just curious, the trip will be fun either way.

I should have executive lounge access though, shouldn't I?

Hey notmypetunia, care to update us on your experience?

Indeed. The stay was awesome. Eugenia, the concierge, was a delight and so was the staff in general. Everyone there - guests and staff alike - seemed to be pleasant and in good moods.

I had two rooms booked (five girls) but as it turned out it seemed it was the other room who ended up receiving the Diamond perks such as the slippers and free water and whatnot (drat!). We didn't figure that out til later but it was really no big deal. Looked over the pool with a view of the beach and ocean. The balcony was not nearly as large as the one in Cabo but large enough and did have table/chairs. It was nice that guests in both rooms were privy to the free continental breakfast certificates (I was the only HH member). Breakfast options were plentiful and tasty. The continental - muffins, fruit, cereal, meats, cheeses, etc, was enough for me. One friend opted for the cooked portion and raved about her french toast.

We all had access to the executive lounge, also plentiful and tasty. Complimentary Internet access with a courtesy sign-in sheet allowing 15 minutes a pop. Again, very personable and accomodating staff. They even allowed us a channel change to catch the Derby. :)

The pool is beautiful and spacious and a great temperature. And, c'mon, you can't beat a swim-up bar. The drink that comes in the coconut monkey cup is delicious as is the poolside food, btw. Surprisingly, we were able to obtain chairs under umbrellas most of the time, without getting out there at some obscene hour. That was a good thing for this lazy-boned-pale-face. Don't be fooled, slather up!

As far as I could tell, there wasn't much night life in the hotel itself but catching a bus or taxi from the hotel is quick and easy. Take the bus into town, why not, it's less than a buck, 65 pesos, as I recall. Missed the pyramids but I did do the zip line tour...wow! Right now they have 11 or 12 zips but in November I think it is, they're adding on so it'll be about 23 or so. I hestitated going to Cancun because I tend to think of it as a crazy spring breakish kind of place but I'd certainly visit again.

Thanks for asking!

Just returned from a 6 night stay at the Hilton Cancun and wanted to mention that we were not given an upgrade as a diamond. I know, I know, I know...upgrades are not guaranteed, sometimes you get lucky, sometimes you don't, but, based on the previous posts about this property and the late June timing, I was hoping to be given a room with a balcony. I asked about it at check in and was told that no upgraded rooms were available but to check back. Inquired at the front desk several times, but no luck.

The resort is very nice - definitely the best pool I've ever seen at a Hilton, and a beautiful beach. The restaurants were average at best, but service was very pleasant. We were given coupons for continental breakfast in the Spices restaurant and we were given access to the Villa lounge (after I asked about it at check in) from 5-7 for the daily evening reception (open bar, nice snacks, and super friendly staff).

Had a couple of minor problems during our stay. We ran out of toilet paper twice. The first time we were given two replacement rolls that were both almost empty and a couple of days later when those rolls were used up we had to hunt down a maid in the evening several hours after the front desk promised to send someone with more TP (it was completely out when the maid cleaned that day). Another minor problem was returning to the room around 3:00 - 4:00 two afternoons to an unclean room and then being asked to leave ASAP so that they could clean it (we were out around 9:00 am both days). The maids were very sweet, so it was hard to get too upset, just a little irritating.

As someone who loves to spend beach vacations sitting on a balcony reading a book, I would definitely choose to pay more for a room with a balcony at this hotel if I returned. My expectations were way too high based on previous posts talking about upgrades to balcony rooms, villas, and even jr suites. All of those room types were available on the hilton reservation website during our stay. Maybe next time...

Just returned from a 6 night stay at the Hilton Cancun and wanted to mention that we were not given an upgrade as a diamond. I know, I know, I know...upgrades are not guaranteed, sometimes you get lucky, sometimes you don't, but, based on the previous posts about this property and the late June timing, I was hoping to be given a room with a balcony. I asked about it at check in and was told that no upgraded rooms were available but to check back. Inquired at the front desk several times, but no luck.

The resort is very nice - definitely the best pool I've ever seen at a Hilton, and a beautiful beach. The restaurants were average at best, but service was very pleasant. We were given coupons for continental breakfast in the Spices restaurant and we were given access to the Villa lounge (after I asked about it at check in) from 5-7 for the daily evening reception (open bar, nice snacks, and super friendly staff).

Had a couple of minor problems during our stay. We ran out of toilet paper twice. The first time we were given two replacement rolls that were both almost empty and a couple of days later when those rolls were used up we had to hunt down a maid in the evening several hours after the front desk promised to send someone with more TP (it was completely out when the maid cleaned that day). Another minor problem was returning to the room around 3:00 - 4:00 two afternoons to an unclean room and then being asked to leave ASAP so that they could clean it (we were out around 9:00 am both days). The maids were very sweet, so it was hard to get too upset, just a little irritating.

As someone who loves to spend beach vacations sitting on a balcony reading a book, I would definitely choose to pay more for a room with a balcony at this hotel if I returned. My expectations were way too high based on previous posts talking about upgrades to balcony rooms, villas, and even jr suites. All of those room types were available on the hilton reservation website during our stay. Maybe next time...


I too was at the Hilton Cancun, returning on 7/5. As a Diamond, my experience was exactly the same as noted above.

1. Pool: excellent. The best of any Hilton I've been to.
2. Ocean: not swimmable. Strong under-townd red "do not swim" flags up all week.
3. Beach: very nice. However, the sand is not the same powder-texture as pre-hurricane.
4. Upgrade: as Diamond on reward stay, there was no upgrade. I asked too. Answer was a firm -- no.
5. Lounge: as Diamond, was given key to the executive loounge in the Villas. Evening appetisers and drinks were nice and beat paying $3.50 for a Diet Coke at the swim-up bar.
6. Breakfast: given 2 coupons per day for Spices for continental breakfast. Except for 1 day, they did not charge us for upgrading to full breakfast. The fee was suppose to be $8/day per person.
7. Food: on-site resturants are so-so. The Italian one is decent but over-priced. Spices is good for breakfast but nothing special for dinner. We didn't try the seafood resturant. An average meal for 2 adults with no alcohol was $60 for dinner and $40 for lunch.
8. Towels: never had an issue with getting beach towels without a wait.
9. TP: same problem as above person. One day we returned to find ZERO TP in the room. It took 2 hours to get more. We ended up taking rolls from the lobby restroom. (Never knew there was a TP shortage).
10. Diet Coke: you best bring your own to the resort. The one in the mini bar is more than $4. There is none for sale in the gift shop. It's $3.50 at the bar for 1 glass. Spices and the Italian resturant use cans so no free refills.


The pool and no-cost full breakfast were great but it's not a "category 6" level of service from this Hilton.

I too was at the Hilton Cancun, returning on 7/5. As a Diamond, my experience was exactly the same as noted above.

1. Pool: excellent. The best of any Hilton I've been to.
2. Ocean: not swimmable. Strong under-townd red "do not swim" flags up all week.
3. Beach: very nice. However, the sand is not the same powder-texture as pre-hurricane.
4. Upgrade: as Diamond on reward stay, there was no upgrade. I asked too. Answer was a firm -- no.
5. Lounge: as Diamond, was given key to the executive loounge in the Villas. Evening appetisers and drinks were nice and beat paying $3.50 for a Diet Coke at the swim-up bar.
6. Breakfast: given 2 coupons per day for Spices for continental breakfast. Except for 1 day, they did not charge us for upgrading to full breakfast. The fee was suppose to be $8/day per person.
7. Food: on-site resturants are so-so. The Italian one is decent but over-priced. Spices is good for breakfast but nothing special for dinner. We didn't try the seafood resturant. An average meal for 2 adults with no alcohol was $60 for dinner and $40 for lunch.
8. Towels: never had an issue with getting beach towels without a wait.
9. TP: same problem as above person. One day we returned to find ZERO TP in the room. It took 2 hours to get more. We ended up taking rolls from the lobby restroom. (Never knew there was a TP shortage).
10. Diet Coke: you best bring your own to the resort. The one in the mini bar is more than $4. There is none for sale in the gift shop. It's $3.50 at the bar for 1 glass. Spices and the Italian resturant use cans so no free refills.


The pool and no-cost full breakfast were great but it's not a "category 6" level of service from this Hilton.

Thanks for the info. I have a few clarifying questions as I am planning on staying at the end of the month.

1) You were given access to the exec loung - don't they serve breakfast there? If so did you eat there? Which was better for a hot breakfast including eggs?

2) Do you only get 2 coupons per room? If you take the coupons are you unable to eat in the executive lounge for breakfast? Why use the coupons if you can have a full breakfast in the lounge?

3) Did you get free access to the SPA and Sauna as a diamond? If so was there a full changing/showering/sauna room with facilities like at the Hilton Waikoloa Village?

4) Does someone know the email address of the current hotel concierge or manager so that I could pre-request an upgrade?

5) Any other suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,

Goz

Thanks for the info. I have a few clarifying questions as I am planning on staying at the end of the month.

1) You were given access to the exec loung - don't they serve breakfast there? If so did you eat there? Which was better for a hot breakfast including eggs?

2) Do you only get 2 coupons per room? If you take the coupons are you unable to eat in the executive lounge for breakfast? Why use the coupons if you can have a full breakfast in the lounge?

3) Did you get free access to the SPA and Sauna as a diamond? If so was there a full changing/showering/sauna room with facilities like at the Hilton Waikoloa Village?

4) Does someone know the email address of the current hotel concierge or manager so that I could pre-request an upgrade?

5) Any other suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,

Goz



1. Yes -- exec lounge access was provided.

2. Breakfast -- we were given 2 coupons per room to continental breakfast in the Spices resturant (main tower). We ate there since we didn't feel like walking to the villas for the exec lounge for breakfast.
At Spices, you can upgrade from continental breakfast to full breakfast --- most of the time for no charge. The breakfast buffet in Spices is good.

3. Spa -- access to it on a paid basis.

4. Email -- I emailed ahead of time to ask for an upgrade and early check-in. We got early check-in but was told no upgrades on reward stays. I'll have to look-up the email address on my work machine.

1. Yes -- exec lounge access was provided.

2. Breakfast -- we were given 2 coupons per room to continental breakfast in the Spices resturant (main tower). We ate there since we didn't feel like walking to the villas for the exec lounge for breakfast.

.

As a point of clarity, there is no Executive Lounge as such at the Hilton Cancun.

The lounge mentioned in previous posts is The Villas Lounge located about 150 yards from the main building. This lounge exists as a benefit exclusively for residents in the villas part of the resort and offers villa guests check-in/out, concierge services and breakfast, coffee/drinks during the day and an evening happy hour.

Diamond members of HH are given a key to this lounge and invited to join the villa guests for the evening happy hour ONLY. The invitation states:


For your delight in the evenings before you go out for dinner, come to the Villas Lounge and be part of the ocean serenity during our Cocktail hour from 5.00 pm until 7.00 pm where hors d'oeuvres. wines, liqueurs, cocktails and soft drinks are accompanied by the singing of native birds.


If you do accept this invitation, you will be joining all of the villa residents (usually families) and competing for the attention of one bar server for your drinks. There is usually lots and lots of small deep fried spring roll type of snacks.

In theory, Diamonds are supposed to use their breakfast coupons for a continental breakfast at Spices Restaurant. As othere have mentioned, this continental breakfast can be upgraded for $8 to a full buffet. While it is possible to "sneak into" the Villas Lounge for breakfast with the hoard (you can use your key), it is a bit of a walk, and in my view, the Spices breakfast and ambiance is a much better/nicer experience.

See the photo of the resort and you will get some idea of the layout, including the location of the villas on the left of the photo:

http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/CUNHRHH-Hilton-Cancun-Golf-Spa-Resort/index.do

Contact: The Front Desk manager is ALFREDO PICHARDINI and his e-mail address is alfredo_pichardini@hilton.com

Just returned from a 6 night stay at the Hilton Cancun and wanted to mention that we were not given an upgrade as a diamond. I know, I know, I know...upgrades are not guaranteed, sometimes you get lucky, sometimes you don't, but, based on the previous posts about this property and the late June timing, I was hoping to be given a room with a balcony. I asked about it at check in and was told that no upgraded rooms were available but to check back. Inquired at the front desk several times, but no luck.

The resort is very nice - definitely the best pool I've ever seen at a Hilton, and a beautiful beach. The restaurants were average at best, but service was very pleasant. We were given coupons for continental breakfast in the Spices restaurant and we were given access to the Villa lounge (after I asked about it at check in) from 5-7 for the daily evening reception (open bar, nice snacks, and super friendly staff).

Had a couple of minor problems during our stay. We ran out of toilet paper twice. The first time we were given two replacement rolls that were both almost empty and a couple of days later when those rolls were used up we had to hunt down a maid in the evening several hours after the front desk promised to send someone with more TP (it was completely out when the maid cleaned that day). Another minor problem was returning to the room around 3:00 - 4:00 two afternoons to an unclean room and then being asked to leave ASAP so that they could clean it (we were out around 9:00 am both days). The maids were very sweet, so it was hard to get too upset, just a little irritating.

As someone who loves to spend beach vacations sitting on a balcony reading a book, I would definitely choose to pay more for a room with a balcony at this hotel if I returned. My expectations were way too high based on previous posts talking about upgrades to balcony rooms, villas, and even jr suites. All of those room types were available on the hilton reservation website during our stay. Maybe next time...


Ouch...did I read that correctly? No balcony? Wow...I had no idea there were rooms w/out balconies. Good to know. My husband only cares about a balcony and not much else. You could give him a 10x10 room so long as it had a balcony! Wow....very good to know. I thought all of their rooms had them.

It is especially important to my husband because he doesn't do the pool area....call him antisocial, whatever you like, but the man prefers to lay on his own balcony and not with 100 other people at the pool. He doesn't care what I choose to do, but it just not for him.

Ouch....thanks for the info.

Dawn

You read it right, we did not have a balcony. We did have a sliding glass door that opened out to a ledge facing the pool and beach, but you could not call it a balcony. I actually tried to take the chair from our room out on the ledge, but it did not fit. You could position the chair sideways, but then had to keep my elbows in and not face the pool. The above explanations about the Villa lounge are correct. At check in we were told only to use the Villa Lounge from 5-7 each day. Our key did not work to the Villa Lounge, so we had to stand outside and wait for someone to come in or out to gain access. Did not ask at the front desk about it because it did not seem worth the effort because lots of people are coming in and out of the Villa lounge between 5-7. One thing I really like was that breakfast was served in Spices until 11:30 every day.

Ouch...did I read that correctly? No balcony? Wow...I had no idea there were rooms w/out balconies. Good to know. My husband only cares about a balcony and not much else. You could give him a 10x10 room so long as it had a balcony! Wow....very good to know. I thought all of their rooms had them.

It is especially important to my husband because he doesn't do the pool area....call him antisocial, whatever you like, but the man prefers to lay on his own balcony and not with 100 other people at the pool. He doesn't care what I choose to do, but it just not for him.

Ouch....thanks for the info.

Dawn

Only the Deluxe rooms and some of the suites have balconies. Typically the deluxe rooms cost about $20 more per night than the standard rooms and it may be well worth while to book one of these if a balcony is important.

The standard rooms at the end of each wing (i.e. 2 on each of the nine floors) have a very large terrace area complete with table, chairs and sun beds. There areas are VERY private and suitable for nude sunbathing (if you are into that type of thing)

Has anyone used the SPA treatments? Are they overpriced?

As a Diamond do I have to pay to use the sauna, changing room, showers etc? At some Hiltons (as a Diamond) you get to use the changing facilities including the showers and sauna, etc without fee. Is that the case here?

Do Diamonds get access to the gym?

Thanks,

Goz

Wife and I finally found dates that work for us to make a quick R&R trip and decided upon the Hilton Cancun Resort. Property looks awesome and many TRs have indicated positive stays.

With rates that seem rather reasonable we decided to forgo an award stay so trying to decide between the following two room types:

1 King Jr Suite

Or

1 King Garden Villa

From what I've gathered, the Jr Suite seems like a better choice as it has the private jacuzzi on the terrace overlooking the ocean. The rate difference is minor so seems like a good option.

Question, as a Diamond staying in a Jr. Suite, is there an Executive Lounge available in the same building as the Jr. Suites or is a daily trek over to the Villa Lounge what I will be offered as a Diamond.

Any thoughts about the restaurants/quality/variety, etc?

Finally, we have no intention of leaving the property as we will only be there a few days and want to do absolutely nothing. I'm sure this property offers plenty to keep us in our relaxing mode but if you have had a similar goal and care to share your experience I would love to hear about it.

Lastly, transportion between the airport and the resort. Taxi? Shuttle? Don't want to hassle with a rental car.

Appreciate all input.

Thanks,
US1@ORF

Question, as a Diamond staying in a Jr. Suite, is there an Executive Lounge available in the same building as the Jr. Suites or is a daily trek over to the Villa Lounge what I will be offered as a Diamond.



There is no exceutive lounge (as such) at Cancun. The only lounge is the VILLAS LOUNGE in one of the villa - a bit of a trk from the main building


Lastly, transportion between the airport and the resort. Taxi? Shuttle? Don't want to hassle with a rental car.



Shuttle from the airport - $12 each. From memory, a taxi is about $50

Taxi to the sirport $25

Just returned and there is hope..I was upgraded as a diamond to the villas. Would echo previous posts as spot on, but will offer special kudos to the villas lounge staff- the friendliest hilton staff ever. They knew our drink orders by the second day and brought out refills unsolicited- were even mixing pretty good pina coladas for the mrs. Did use the entertanment-plus.net for airport transfers and did their private chichen itza/il kil tour-the family really dug it. undoubtedly more romantic and family friendly hilton resorts (have stayed at many), but this property gets big bonuses for staff

Just returned from an 8 night stay at the Hilton Cancun with the family.

Room:
I was originally upgraded to a Garden Villa, but I asked for a JR Suite and was very pleased to get that. Very nice room with excellent balcony. If being close to the beach is important then I would ask for an Ocean Villa. Even if you end up in a Garden Villa, you are still doing quite well. You are in a prime location with the pool just a few steps from your Garden Villa.

Food & Lounge:
We recieved continetal breakfast coupons in Spices. For ~$8 we could upgrade to the hot breakfast. We had access to the Villas lounge (be sure to get your key coded for that). Based on what I can see the breakfast in Spices was far better. In the afternoon you can get sodas, etc in the lounge.

For lunch we would order an 18 inch pizza ~$20 and share it. Overall the food was pretty good.

Pool & Beach:
Very nice pool with pool bar. Pool is open all night long. The beach is nice, but there are a lot of rocks and a strong surf. There was one spot that had a yellow flag (which means we could enter the ocean) an we swam a number of times in the ocean. I recommend you wear some kind of footwear in the ocean.

Spa
Diamonds get a 15% discount off the services. You also get access to the Spa facilities if that is important to you, but some of the Spa staff were unaware of that and will try to charge you for using the locker room.

Getting Around
From the airport you can get an airport transfer. I used entertainment plus and for ~$65 got round trip transfers. For travelling around the hotel zone we used the Bus for 6.5 pesos or ~$0.65 per person. Much cheaper than a cab.

Internet
No free internet. There was no free wireless in the lounge. There is a single computer in the lounge that has internet on it and you are limited to 15 minutes at a time. If internet is important to you then prepare to pay for it.

Other
Tipping is greatly appreciated and for a few extra bucks each day the maid staff would do a good job on cleaning the room including the other one with my messy teenagers.

Activities
Used the Aquaworld desk in the hotel for the Isla Mujeres trip and Scuba Diving (2 tank wreck dive). If you go on the Isla Mujeres trip be sure to go for the golf cart tour of the island. Wreck dive was excellent.

Went to Xel Ha (through entertainment plus) with a private van for our group. THis was an excelelnt all day trip. It is expensive but it was great. You can actually snorkel without wearing life vests (which for a certified diver is important). They have lots of other activities. Just ask for a brochure.


I would gladly return to this hotel in the future.

Goz

Just returned from an 8 night stay at the Hilton Cancun with the family.

Room:
I was originally upgraded to a Garden Villa, but I asked for a JR Suite and was very pleased to get that. Very nice room with excellent balcony. If being close to the beach is important then I would ask for an Ocean Villa. Even if you end up in a Garden Villa, you are still doing quite well. You are in a prime location with the pool just a few steps from your Garden Villa.

Food & Lounge:
We recieved continetal breakfast coupons in Spices. For ~$8 we could upgrade to the hot breakfast. We had access to the Villas lounge (be sure to get your key coded for that). Based on what I can see the breakfast in Spices was far better. In the afternoon you can get sodas, etc in the lounge.

For lunch we would order an 18 inch pizza ~$20 and share it. Overall the food was pretty good.

Pool & Beach:
Very nice pool with pool bar. Pool is open all night long. The beach is nice, but there are a lot of rocks and a strong surf. There was one spot that had a yellow flag (which means we could enter the ocean) an we swam a number of times in the ocean. I recommend you wear some kind of footwear in the ocean.

Spa
Diamonds get a 15% discount off the services. You also get access to the Spa facilities if that is important to you, but some of the Spa staff were unaware of that and will try to charge you for using the locker room.

Getting Around
From the airport you can get an airport transfer. I used entertainment plus and for ~$65 got round trip transfers. For travelling around the hotel zone we used the Bus for 6.5 pesos or ~$0.65 per person. Much cheaper than a cab.

Internet
No free internet. There was no free wireless in the lounge. There is a single computer in the lounge that has internet on it and you are limited to 15 minutes at a time. If internet is important to you then prepare to pay for it.

Other
Tipping is greatly appreciated and for a few extra bucks each day the maid staff would do a good job on cleaning the room including the other one with my messy teenagers.

Activities
Used the Aquaworld desk in the hotel for the Isla Mujeres trip and Scuba Diving (2 tank wreck dive). If you go on the Isla Mujeres trip be sure to go for the golf cart tour of the island. Wreck dive was excellent.

Went to Xel Ha (through entertainment plus) with a private van for our group. THis was an excelelnt all day trip. It is expensive but it was great. You can actually snorkel without wearing life vests (which for a certified diver is important). They have lots of other activities. Just ask for a brochure.


I would gladly return to this hotel in the future.

Goz

Gozar,

Thanks for posting a very informative update of your recent stay. The wife and I booked a Jr. Suite for our stay in a few weeks from now. Sounds like we won't be disappointed.

Couple of questions:

I've never heard of Enterntainment Plus. What is that? Was your airport transfer in a private vehicle or a hotel shuttle that made several stops? We prefer to go direct to the hotel so willing to pay more if needed. From what I found on the Cancun airport website, a RT taxi is not unreasonable. What's your thoughts on that?

Sounds like you had a good idea about how to handle meals. We will probably do something similar.

Surprised to hear the pool is open all night. That will be quite nice for us as we prefer when it is less crowded. Nothing against kids, we don't have any so much enjoy the quiet time near the pool. If we had kids we'd surely be at the pool all day long.

I think you recently returned from your stay. Was the resort very crowded? We are going at the end of August so can't imagine that's going to be very busy time. I think the week following will be as it is near a US holiday.

THanks again,
US1@ORF

US1@ORF,

You will like the Jr. Suite.

Here is the website for entertainment plus:
http://www.entertainment-plus.net

The transfer was private - for my family only. The cost is based on the number of people in your party. I don't know where the cost breakdown versus a cab is but for my family of 6 taking (2) standard cabs was not a good option for us.

On that site they sell the 2 for 1 dining card. We bought (2) of them. They worked great - but only at the restaurants listed on the site. If you don't like those places then don't buy the card. Just let the waiter know that you are using the card before ordering.

We also bought 1 bottle of the bio-degradeable sun screen from that site, as Xel Ha and Isla Mujeres only wanted you to use a bio-degradeable sun screen.

Pool is great. The hotle was not really crowded. The only bad day at the pool area was Sunday - we had a hard time finding a lounge chair in the shade on that day. This is vacation time for many families in Mexico, so the place will not be empty.

Goz

We usually go to thailand and this time look like my wife wants a change, could someone tell me if they have a kids club and if is pay by the our or children are free since he is 6 year.

I asked since at The Arcadia they do not charge you and my son had a great time, Thanks in advance

Following Gozar's excellent report, here is mine:

We just returned from a great 7 night stay at the Hilton Cancun. I am an HHonors Gold.

Room:
First 5 nights we were in a Junior Suite in the main building. We really enjoyed the room mostly because of the great views and the huge patio with the whirlpool. It was great to relax up there either during the day or at night. The room itself wasn't actually that big (king bed though) but the outside patio more than made up for it. Typical room otherwise (nice furnishings, comfy bed), although we had a nice 37" LCD TV. There was also a minibar with overpriced drinks (etc.). They don't allow much of any room for your own personal stuff, but we did find room for one small size bottle of our own water. We had no problem with noise or anything like it.

Last two nights (reward stay booked as a regular room with balcony) we were upgraded to the Villas. The room was larger than the Junior Suite, but it had a much smaller patio, but one you could still fit comfortably on. Very high ceilings, as well. We were in the villas furtherest from the waterfront (there are only 2 rows of Villas) but still had great views of the ocean from the second floor. You really are very close to the water! The villas area was very peaceful and tranquil. The room itself was rather typical otherwise, but the bathroom had both a separate shower stall and a bathtub. The only bad thing was that the grout in the entire room and the bathroom is rather nasty and needs to be redone/bleached.

I liked the Jr. Suite more, the Mrs. liked the Villa's more, but both were great.


Food & Lounge:
Our first 5 days we had the continental breakfast at Spices. As an HHONORS Gold, they were complimentary, otherwise the price is a rather extraordinary $26/person. We really enjoyed it and the selections were good. Keep in mind, this only includes cold food (+coffee) and you could upgrade to the hot for $8/person. We didn't upgrade as the cold food was more than sufficient, very fresh, tasty and the service was good.

Our last two days we were in the villas, where breakfast was included with the room (granted, they were going to charge us for it at first since it was a reward stay, but then came around and threw it in). It was indeed a more basic continental breakfast, but sufficient. It was never too crowded either.

We both felt that the Spices breakfast was much better, but for the price, the Villas breakfast was fine.

Otherwise, the food was actually quite good/excellent. Whether from room service, pool bar food (drinks, nachos, quesdilias) and the Pizza and Pasta place (great exotic pizzas), all around very good and the prices where as expected for a Hilton property. I didn't feel like we were gouged, but as NY'ers, perhaps we are used to getting creamed on food anyway. We didn't eat dinner at Mitachi, but did have dessert and drinks one evening. The price is higher than elsewhere, but it is worth it for the location alone.

Other restaurants (in the hotel zone):
La Dolce Vita: EXCELLENT ALL AROUND, reasonable prices
Crab House Caribe: Good food but terrible service.
Laguna Grill: Great food and great service, but the place smells awful (like rotten eggs). I think the smell comes from the lagoon and the owners seem to know about it as they gave us a fan to move the air away.

Pool & Beach:
Not much more to add, but the pools are fantastic. Clean, large, etc.

Beach is rocky near the shore, but once you get over the rocks, the water is delightful. Not great for small kids though. Red flags were up the entire time, but you could go in the water and there were lifeguards on duty at certain times.

Towels were plentiful. Chaise lounges were also plentiful, however, you had to claim the ones under the hut/palapa's by 10:30 AM else you were in the sun all day.

We did go down to the Westin/Club Med for 2 days as the water was much more accessible. We also snorkeled by Club Med.

The beaches are all public, so no one should tell you that you aren't welcome.

Spa:
Did not use, price seemed on the high side.


Getting Around
Used entertainment-plus for transportation to and from the hotel. No problems at all, flawless. Private car both ways was a total of $55 + tip.

Getting around otherwise was incredibly easy due to the buses. We were originally put-off by them, but after our first ride, we realized they were great. Safe, quick, cheap (7.5 pesos/person =$0.75), and frequent. Hail them down from the bus stops and tell them where you are going and you will be fine. They run 24 hours and we never waited longer than 5 minutes for one.

Internet
Did not use, but I think the price was about $16 day. No free internet anywhere.

Other/Activities
We took our own day trip to Isla Mujeres which was fantastic (snorkeling, seeing the island) You can also book onsite from Aquaworld (along with many other activies).

We did not do any of the other big trips, but did walk about a half mile away to the "El Rey" archeological site. It is definetly worth your while ($3.50 per person entry fee).

That is about it. A great place indeed! Will return again.

Following Gozar's excellent report, here is mine:

We just returned from a great 7 night stay at the Hilton Cancun. I am an HHonors Gold.

Room:
First 5 nights we were in a Junior Suite in the main building. We really enjoyed the room mostly because of the great views and the huge patio with the whirlpool. It was great to relax up there either during the day or at night. The room itself wasn't actually that big (king bed though) but the outside patio more than made up for it. Typical room otherwise (nice furnishings, comfy bed), although we had a nice 37" LCD TV. There was also a minibar with overpriced drinks (etc.). They don't allow much of any room for your own personal stuff, but we did find room for one small size bottle of our own water. We had no problem with noise or anything like it.

Last two nights (reward stay booked as a regular room with balcony) we were upgraded to the Villas. The room was larger than the Junior Suite, but it had a much smaller patio, but one you could still fit comfortably on. Very high ceilings, as well. We were in the villas furtherest from the waterfront (there are only 2 rows of Villas) but still had great views of the ocean from the second floor. You really are very close to the water! The villas area was very peaceful and tranquil. The room itself was rather typical otherwise, but the bathroom had both a separate shower stall and a bathtub. The only bad thing was that the grout in the entire room and the bathroom is rather nasty and needs to be redone/bleached.

I liked the Jr. Suite more, the Mrs. liked the Villa's more, but both were great.


Food & Lounge:
Our first 5 days we had the continental breakfast at Spices. As an HHONORS Gold, they were complimentary, otherwise the price is a rather extraordinary $26/person. We really enjoyed it and the selections were good. Keep in mind, this only includes cold food (+coffee) and you could upgrade to the hot for $8/person. We didn't upgrade as the cold food was more than sufficient, very fresh, tasty and the service was good.

Our last two days we were in the villas, where breakfast was included with the room (granted, they were going to charge us for it at first since it was a reward stay, but then came around and threw it in). It was indeed a more basic continental breakfast, but sufficient. It was never too crowded either.

We both felt that the Spices breakfast was much better, but for the price, the Villas breakfast was fine.

Otherwise, the food was actually quite good/excellent. Whether from room service, pool bar food (drinks, nachos, quesdilias) and the Pizza and Pasta place (great exotic pizzas), all around very good and the prices where as expected for a Hilton property. I didn't feel like we were gouged, but as NY'ers, perhaps we are used to getting creamed on food anyway. We didn't eat dinner at Mitachi, but did have dessert and drinks one evening. The price is higher than elsewhere, but it is worth it for the location alone.

Other restaurants (in the hotel zone):
La Dolce Vita: EXCELLENT ALL AROUND, reasonable prices
Crab House Caribe: Good food but terrible service.
Laguna Grill: Great food and great service, but the place smells awful (like rotten eggs). I think the smell comes from the lagoon and the owners seem to know about it as they gave us a fan to move the air away.

Pool & Beach:
Not much more to add, but the pools are fantastic. Clean, large, etc.

Beach is rocky near the shore, but once you get over the rocks, the water is delightful. Not great for small kids though. Red flags were up the entire time, but you could go in the water and there were lifeguards on duty at certain times.

Towels were plentiful. Chaise lounges were also plentiful, however, you had to claim the ones under the hut/palapa's by 10:30 AM else you were in the sun all day.

We did go down to the Westin/Club Med for 2 days as the water was much more accessible. We also snorkeled by Club Med.

The beaches are all public, so no one should tell you that you aren't welcome.

Spa:
Did not use, price seemed on the high side.


Getting Around
Used entertainment-plus for transportation to and from the hotel. No problems at all, flawless. Private car both ways was a total of $55 + tip.

Getting around otherwise was incredibly easy due to the buses. We were originally put-off by them, but after our first ride, we realized they were great. Safe, quick, cheap (7.5 pesos/person =$0.75), and frequent. Hail them down from the bus stops and tell them where you are going and you will be fine. They run 24 hours and we never waited longer than 5 minutes for one.

Internet
Did not use, but I think the price was about $16 day. No free internet anywhere.

Other/Activities
We took our own day trip to Isla Mujeres which was fantastic (snorkeling, seeing the island) You can also book onsite from Aquaworld (along with many other activies).

We did not do any of the other big trips, but did walk about a half mile away to the "El Rey" archeological site. It is definetly worth your while ($3.50 per person entry fee).

That is about it. A great place indeed! Will return again.

Appreciate the thorough report on the Hilton Cancun. Wife and I are headed there tomorrow morning so we are finishing packing now. A couple of quick questions. We too reserved the Jr Suite as the terrace/hot tub was a major factor in booking that room. How's the bath in that room type? Is the shower and tub combined or is it separate like the Villas?

You also commented on the dining options. I think we'll go for breakfast at Spices as that sounds like it will meet our needs. Question about evening time lounge/bar. Is there one? Do they play music? Is there a nightclub environ on the property?

Thanks for your help.

This is probably too late, but here I will answer your questions:

How's the bath in that room type?
Is the shower and tub combined or is it separate like the Villas?

Bathroom is a good bit smaller in the Jr. Suite. Single sink, and a combined shower/tub.

You also commented on the dining options. I think we'll go for breakfast at Spices as that sounds like it will meet our needs. Question about evening time lounge/bar. Is there one? Do they play music? Is there a nightclub environ on the property?

No real lounge, but the best bar later at night is Mitachi. Yes, they seemed to have live music a few nights but it ended around 10 PM I think. No nightclub on the property though.

Enjoy!

I have read that the Hilton Cancun charges a daily fee to use the fitness center. I have a stay booked with a room in the Villas. Does anyone know if staying in the Villas includes free access to the fitness center?

I have read that the Hilton Cancun charges a daily fee to use the fitness center. I have a stay booked with a room in the Villas. Does anyone know if staying in the Villas includes free access to the fitness center?

While we did not stay in the Villas during our recent stay, I don't think they charge a fee for use of the exercise equipment. Everytime we went to workout they did not say anything other than to make sure we signed in. They did not ask our room number or anything.

HOpe that helps.

We're planning to spend 10 days there in late March/early April and we are not using points. We've booked an oceanfront villa. Last time we were there was two years ago and we loved it. Recent reviews however are indicating the villas are in bad shape and need to be refurbished. Dirty grout, cracked/chipped tile throughout, older linens, etc. Does anyone know of any improvement plans any time soon? We love that property, but if it's not in tip-top shape I have no interest in paying full price for a 10 day stay. Thought maybe other honors travelers might have an inside scoop.

Wow. It's dropping fast in its ranking on Trip Advisor -- now at #17. I think just prior to our first stay there a few years ago, it was #7.

This makes us re-think our loyalty to Hilton for business travel. The only reason we bother to stay at H properties is to use points at the Cancun property. It used to be that nice! Reports about the villas, which we much prefer to the main building, are not sounding good.

There is no reason not to maintain the villas at previous standards of quality. Penny-wise and pound foolish -- certainly not a business model for a popular Category 6 that makes any sense. Hilton has only a few crown jewels and it should take care of them.

Just booked a weeks stay during thanksgiving week. I'm hoping that they will grant diamond status b/c my current stay (checkout on nov 23) will put me over the edge but will not reflect in time for my stay...i've e-mailed hhonors to see if they could help me out. I've never been to cancun before so either way I'm going to have a good time.

I have just booked 12 days from 2nd Jan , ocean villa as we have 2 kids. I also see there has been no reply to the current standard of the villas from the last post, hope this will not be an issue.

I have read through all these posts but have not seen any mention of the standard of the golf course ? , I play off single figure hcp & plan to play a couple of rounds. Any comments will be much appeciated.

Have to say this thread has been great to read , this will be our first time to Mexico , special thks to Goz for the 'ENTERTAINMENT PLUS web site' will book airport transfers & other trips from there.

I have just booked 12 days from 2nd Jan , ocean villa as we have 2 kids. I also see there has been no reply to the current standard of the villas from the last post, hope this will not be an issue.

I have read through all these posts but have not seen any mention of the standard of the golf course ? , I play off single figure hcp & plan to play a couple of rounds. Any comments will be much appeciated.

Have to say this thread has been great to read , this will be our first time to Mexico , special thks to Goz for the 'ENTERTAINMENT PLUS web site' will book airport transfers & other trips from there.

Similar to Hawaii, you're probably not in the room much; especially if you have kids who want to be at the beach, the pool, or kids activities constantly. So unless the plaster is chunking off of the walls it can't be all that bad.

The golf course is very good unless you need the challenge of Pebble Beach or Pinehurst. I was there six weeks ago but did not stay at the Hilton (I have a timeshare at Royal Sunset). I played golf on a freebie I received. They even gave me a free set of loaner clubs and a sleeve of balls (I don't play often so I ended up buying another sleeve just in case).

Similar to Hawaii, you're probably not in the room much; especially if you have kids who want to be at the beach, the pool, or kids activities constantly. So unless the plaster is chunking off of the walls it can't be all that bad.

The golf course is very good unless you need the challenge of Pebble Beach or Pinehurst. I was there six weeks ago but did not stay at the Hilton (I have a timeshare at Royal Sunset). I played golf on a freebie I received. They even gave me a free set of loaner clubs and a sleeve of balls (I don't play often so I ended up buying another sleeve just in case).
__________________________________________________ ______________
many thks , I will playing just for fun as I will be on my own(family Hol's), but still nice to play a good course , could not find any info on the course designer from the web site, but layout look good.

Has anyone had a recent award stay where they were upgraded? Reading the trip reports, it appears that upgrades are plentiful if it is a paid stay.

Has anyone had a recent award stay where they were upgraded? Reading the trip reports, it appears that upgrades are plentiful if it is a paid stay.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------The 1st 6 days of our stay from 2nd jan are award pts booked in an oceanview room & than 6 days in an ocean villa paid. so will be interested to see if we get an upgrade to the villa for the whole stay.

Has anyone else experienced the same with pts/paid ?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------The 1st 6 days of our stay from 2nd jan are award pts booked in an oceanview room & than 6 days in an ocean villa paid. so will be interested to see if we get an upgrade to the villa for the whole stay.

Has anyone else experienced the same with pts/paid ?


We are just using the paid feature to get three nights. We booked the basic rate and are hoping we get the villas or at least access to a balcony room.
Looking forward to this place, we are spending 3 days at the Casa Magna Marriott just before.

Also does anyone know if there is an all-inclusive option you can tag onto your normal room rate?>

Thansk

Long time reader, 1st time poster.

Just returned from 7 night (reward) stay. 1st 2 nights in a Deluxe room w/ balcony 2nd floor (232) facing the beach. Nice room, big closet, flat screen TV, and decent sized balcony. 3rd night upgraded to an Ocean Front Villa (2005). <Upon being upgraded I was told that a $40/night fee would be charged, I believe that it was worth the additional charge.>
The Villa was only slightly larger than the Deluxe room, however it was approximately 100 feet from the ocean and the balcony was much larger. We spendt most of our time sitting on the balcony reading and watching the water.

Dined at Spices for breakfast, Kiosko (pool area), and Pizza & Pasta, all quite good (accepting the hotel prices).

Beach is as previously described Red Flag all the time. Best to just watch, although we did see several people get out in the surf.

Would stay again.

Long time reader, 1st time poster.

Just returned from 7 night (reward) stay. 1st 2 nights in a Deluxe room w/ balcony 2nd floor (232) facing the beach. Nice room, big closet, flat screen TV, and decent sized balcony. 3rd night upgraded to an Ocean Front Villa (2005). <Upon being upgraded I was told that a $40/night fee would be charged, I believe that it was worth the additional charge.>
The Villa was only slightly larger than the Deluxe room, however it was approximately 100 feet from the ocean and the balcony was much larger. We spendt most of our time sitting on the balcony reading and watching the water.

Dined at Spices for breakfast, Kiosko (pool area), and Pizza & Pasta, all quite good (accepting the hotel prices).

Beach is as previously described Red Flag all the time. Best to just watch, although we did see several people get out in the surf.

Would stay again.

__________________________________________________ _______________

Weaselwatchr many thks, I am very interested in the Ocean villas , we are booked for 1 on the 2nd part of our stay ,

we are with 2 kids , is the villa 2 bedrooms or just 1 with 2 double beds ?
Also waiting to see if we will be upgraded for the 1st 6ngts , so if they offer the 40USD difference I will take it.

Overall sounds very good & looking forward to our visit.

The Villas that we were offered featured either 2 queen beds or 1 king and they were both 1 room units.

Just got back from 6 nights at the Cancun Hilton. Was upgraded to a 'deluxe' room - which as far as I could tell was a step up because it had a balcony. I was told by the staff two interesting things - first, occupancy is about 50% right now and second, they won't upgrade award stays beyond the deluxe room.

The trip was good. If we were swimming-in-the-ocean types, I would have been disappointed that the beach was rocky and pretty rough, but it was just interesting to look at. The place was completely quiet and the villas lounge was never crowded. The staff was wonderful. I think we'll stay there again.

Just got back from 6 nights at the Cancun Hilton. Was upgraded to a 'deluxe' room - which as far as I could tell was a step up because it had a balcony. I was told by the staff two interesting things - first, occupancy is about 50% right now and second, they won't upgrade award stays beyond the deluxe room.

The trip was good. If we were swimming-in-the-ocean types, I would have been disappointed that the beach was rocky and pretty rough, but it was just interesting to look at. The place was completely quiet and the villas lounge was never crowded. The staff was wonderful. I think we'll stay there again.

We just got back yesterday from 3 nights at the Hilton. Nice resort all in all.
We booked a regular king and were upgraded to a king with balcony. As diamonds we were given 2 liter bottles of nestle water per stay, free continental breakfast in the Spices restaurant (breakfast pretty good, upgraded three times to full breakfast for another 89 pesos, and we were only charged for one of the three by the waiter), and access to the Villas lounge where they have free alcoholic drinks, snack and appetizers, and free internet.

Pool area is beautiful, the pool area restaurant had decent food, although the food was only warm not hot one day.) Prices overall seemed really reasonable, especially as the exchange rate is 13 pesos to 1 dollar at the moment.

Beach was rocky, red flagged, and the surf was pretty high our entire time. We stayed in the pool.

Staff was super nice. We got a car for the day from the budget rental desk in the lobby, and drove to Tulum and to Chichen-Itza. Fitness center is free for diamonds, and is pretty nice. Didnt play golf but course looked well kept.

Best deal in Cancun is the bus. 6 pesos to ride up and down the strip. We went into the city and bought beer, snacks, and water at the Mexican supermarket. If you take the R-2 bus, it stops at the Walmart downtown where you can stock up on goodies at much cheaper prices. The bus can also take you to a nearby gas station/7-11 where they beer, soda, and snacks.

We enjoyed the resort quite a bit. Would definitely stay at the Hilton again. Occupancy for Cancun as a whole was about 56%.

Going 1-27 for the first time to Cancun.
I am a Diamond VIP sitting on 4 million points. Yes, I just about live at Hilton Family Hotels.
They want to upgrade me.
I have a choice of Villa Room or Main building Suite. Which is better ?
If I take the Suite, do I still have access to the Villa Lounge ?

How is the beach in front of the hotel / Grainy or soft ? Is it a mile or so long ?

What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel ?
Thanks for any replies

Welcome to FT Offshor! Happy new year!

The best way to get to the hotel from the airport in CUN; in my opinion would be to ask the hotel if they have airport service or not (that'll be the easiest). Otherwise the Cancun tourism (state sponsored) service has taxi and shuttle service available at good rates. Good luck and enjoy FT!

Going 1-27 for the first time to Cancun.
I am a Diamond VIP sitting on 4 million points. Yes, I just about live at Hilton Family Hotels.
They want to upgrade me.
I have a choice of Villa Room or Main building Suite. Which is better ?
If I take the Suite, do I still have access to the Villa Lounge ?

How is the beach in front of the hotel / Grainy or soft ? Is it a mile or so long ?

What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel ?
Thanks for any replies

Here are some threads about the Hilton Cancun that may be of help.

Hilton Cancun Resort - Recent Stays and Questions (http://flyertalk.com/forum/hilton-hhonors/796271-hilton-cancun-resort-recent-stays-questions.html)

Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort Hurricane Wilma Thread: Re-Opened May 1, 2006 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/hilton-hhonors/553857-hilton-cancun-golf-spa-resort-hurricane-wilma-thread-re-opened-may-1-2006-a-3.html)

Trip Report - Cancun Hilton Resort (http://flyertalk.com/forum/hilton-hhonors/804650-trip-report-cancun-hilton-resort.html)

A couple of answers to recent questions (that aren't available in the threads you've listed Cheap Elite).

Villas vs. suites are a matter of personal preference. The villas are more private and quieter than most rooms in the main building. Some of the junior suites are a bit sexier than the villas and about the same size, although the balconies that we saw (we looked at three suites) were all smaller. I think the main building is beautiful, yet I prefer to be away from the action in the villas.

The problem with the linens and lack of updating in the villas probably isn't going to be handled anytime soon since RLJ actually owns the resort and it's no longer a Hilton franchisee. Hilton manages it, but perhaps now that's its owned by a privately-held holding company it might not receive the investments in maintenance that the property had previously enjoyed. RLJ got it for a steal (only $31 million in '03!) and now they're building a beachfront conference center (scheduled for August completion) so it looks like they're targeting conventions rather than leisure guests. :( I hope they get more aggressive about protecting thier brilliant investment (Hilton Cancun has one of the best reputations throughout the brand) and update the villas soon (at least with replacement tile and upgraded linens). Business and leisure don't separate at that property and future brand rep is going to be an integrated endeavor.

have just returned from a 12 day stay

6 ngts in a ocean villa , 6 ngts in a suite in the main building.

We had access to the Villa lounge for the whole stay.

Personally the kids & I prefered the suite with the big balcony & hot tub & the wife the Ocean villa because of the view & being close to the beach & pool.

Overall service was excellent & nearly everybody addressed me by name , any Diamonds visiting should contact George Stanfield -Resident Manager before arriving , he was great in arranging the upgrades & I believe marked my a/c as VIP due to the service received:
email :George.Stanfield@hilton.com

This was our first visit to Mexico & taking in the hotel , restaurants , family things to do etc , would recommend it.

On the note of airport transfer , use :
www.entertainment-plus.net
I pick this up from a previous posting , only paid 65$ for return airport pick up family of 4 , knowing another family we meet paid 58$ one way !
They also have good prices on trips & events .

Sorry could not post this in time for OFFSHOR , but hope you enjoyed your stay

I stayed at Hilton Cancun recently for one night only. However I was less than impressed and happy to move on (touring Yucatan) after that.

- I was booked in and paid for a Deluxe Room - they happily told me I've been upgraded to a Deluxe Room ...
- The concierge insisted in parking my car (20 meters from Hotel entrance in an open lot) although I wanted to do it myself as the webpage stated free parking. They charged 8 USD for the unwanted service ...
- They offered me access to the Villas lounge on check-in. Obviously, as a Gold, I'm not entiteled under the new rules. When arriving there, I was rejected - this is not the subtle way to treat your customers, luring them first just to bounce them later, even if it was correct!
- There is a Mariachi band playing for money in the lobby - thus be careful when sitting down and waiting for someone, you might have to pay ...

Bottom line. It was not horrible, but you're tolerance is certainly put on trial!

We used Cancun valet twice - the last time was nearly two years ago. They charged $65/RT and were on time and very professional. It was not a shared ride. I highly recommend. ^www.cancunvalet.com.

I am looking to go to Cancun end of March. 2 adults (my wife and me) and our 3.5 year old son.

Below is what I can get with the prepaid rates for the period we like (6 nights).

183.00 USD 1 KING BED DELUXE ROOM WITH BALCONY OCEANVIEW
199.00 USD 1 KING VILLA WITH BALCONY/ SOFABED GARDENVIEW
199.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS VILLA WITH BALCONY GARDENVIEW
215.00 USD 1 KING VILLA WITH BALCONY/ SOFABED OCEANFRONT
215.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS VILLA WITH BALCONY OCEANFRONT
191.00 USD 1 KING BED WITH WHIRLPOOL/ TERRACE OCEANVIEW
159.00 USD ROOM SELECTED AT CHECK-IN OCEANVIEW

I was also thinking using 175k points but looking at pricing it doesn't look that attractive to use points.

I am Diamond and now to my questions.

Would you go into the Villas or rather the main building ? Is there an advantage with our 3 year old being in a Villa ?

What are the chances of an upgrade and what do you think it would be (Deluxe room ?) if I just pick the last option (room selected at check in) ?

I am considering the 2 Queen beds villa with oceanfront but would I even get any Diamond upgrade or should I take the Gardenview and ask for an Oceanview upgrade ? Also the Villas have the lounge included anyway so no real diamond advantage there.

Would the award stay pretty much be the same like last option (room selected at check in) ? Then I consider approx. 1000 US$ being cheaper then 175k points (I have around 200k points left but will find a home for them in Europe this summer if needed).

The approx. 350 US$ difference between the lowest and highest cost option in price is not a deal breaker but I obviously spend those rather on drinks and food ;)

I saw some reports here about some people getting upgrades and others not being upgraded.

I am looking to go to Cancun end of March. 2 adults (my wife and me) and our 3.5 year old son.

Below is what I can get with the prepaid rates for the period we like (6 nights).

183.00 USD 1 KING BED DELUXE ROOM WITH BALCONY OCEANVIEW
199.00 USD 1 KING VILLA WITH BALCONY/ SOFABED GARDENVIEW
199.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS VILLA WITH BALCONY GARDENVIEW
215.00 USD 1 KING VILLA WITH BALCONY/ SOFABED OCEANFRONT
215.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS VILLA WITH BALCONY OCEANFRONT
191.00 USD 1 KING BED WITH WHIRLPOOL/ TERRACE OCEANVIEW
159.00 USD ROOM SELECTED AT CHECK-IN OCEANVIEW

I was also thinking using 175k points but looking at pricing it doesn't look that attractive to use points.

I am Diamond and now to my questions.

Would you go into the Villas or rather the main building ? Is there an advantage with our 3 year old being in a Villa ?

What are the chances of an upgrade and what do you think it would be (Deluxe room ?) if I just pick the last option (room selected at check in) ?

I am considering the 2 Queen beds villa with oceanfront but would I even get any Diamond upgrade or should I take the Gardenview and ask for an Oceanview upgrade ? Also the Villas have the lounge included anyway so no real diamond advantage there.

Would the award stay pretty much be the same like last option (room selected at check in) ? Then I consider approx. 1000 US$ being cheaper then 175k points (I have around 200k points left but will find a home for them in Europe this summer if needed).

The approx. 350 US$ difference between the lowest and highest cost option in price is not a deal breaker but I obviously spend those rather on drinks and food ;)

I saw some reports here about some people getting upgrades and others not being upgraded.


We stayed last August and paid for the stay (Jr. Suite in main building) so can't speak for the treatment if staying on points. I've heard that they don't upgrade award stays but I find that hard to believe for Diamonds, perhaps true for Gold and Silver level.

Concerning the Lounge, yes, Diamonds are offered use of the lounge during the complimentary evening cocktail/snack reception, from 5p-7p I believe. The hotel provides comp continental breakfast coupons good for the breakfast buffet in the main building for Diamons (perhaps Gold and Silver too, don't know). I think the Villa lounge is very crowded in the morning during breakfast time so they direct those staying the main building to have breakfast in the restaurant. I think you have much more choice of items if you have breakfast in the restaurant than if you tried to use the Villa lounge for the comp continental breakfast.

If you stay in the Villas then I think they expect you to eat Breakfast in the Villa Lounge and may not give coupons for the restaurant but not certain.

I know lots of folks like the idea of the Oceanview Villas but I just cannot see the logic as they are not right on the water (as I recall from memory) so still a bit of a walk. Plus, they are a hike from the main building if you want to dine in any of the restaurants.

My wife and I are planning a return visit sometime this year and don't even think about the Villas when booking. We like the Jr. Suite (has a nice private jacquzzi (spelling?) tub and private balacony that we find irresistable. Those rooms are the end of the hallway on each floor of the main buildding and if you get one on the wing that is in the direction of the ocean it offers an awesome view of the sunrise (be sure to close your curtains as the sun is quite brite in the morning). That particular room is perfect if you have children as the sofa in the adjoining parlor has a pull out bed. Plus, offers a second TV so no fighting over the remote.

The evening cocktail reception in the Villa Lounge is quite popular and very nice treat. Nothing fancy, average bevs and snacks (think fried, salty variety) but nice treat nonetheless. Wife and I are discussing the ways to economize on food and bev next time we go. May take the local bus to Wal-Mart to pick up some wine and bottled water. We typically alternate each of our days at the resort between the beach and the pool. They have excellent wait staff who keep you in your chair and bring food/drinks all day long if you like - we certainly did!

Can't say enough good things about this property. Only one complaint and that is the price of services in the Day Spa. Wife usually likes to have a massage and facial while on vacation but not at the prices they charge. It looks like a nice place but once we found the price list we turned around and decided not worth it. Mind you, we are not cheap, but we don't just throw away our money because we are on vacation.

Hope this has answered some of your questions and feel free to PM me if you have more.

Good luck and enjoy the resort in Cancun.

I was also thinking using 175k points but looking at pricing it doesn't look that attractive to use points.Agreed.

Would you go into the Villas or rather the main building ? Is there an advantage with our 3 year old being in a Villa ?I have been in the deluxe rooms and the first floor garden villas. The view is better from the hotel than the first floor garden villa but there is more room for your son in the graden villas with a nice balcony or patio. Also your son could play on the grass just off the balcony/patio in a garden villa while you, sitting on the patio, kept your eye on him so he could not get too far. Obviously this would not work on second story garden villas or beachfront where the red flag will likely be flying. Just watch out for iguanas. But I have not stayed in a junior suite and many reviewers give these rooms the best marks. It is personal preference.

What are the chances of an upgrade and what do you think it would be (Deluxe room ?) if I just pick the last option (room selected at check in) ? A diamond has a very good, but not 100%, chance at an upgrade. There are a lot of rooms in the hotel and in the villas.

I am considering the 2 Queen beds villa with oceanfront but would I even get any Diamond upgrade or should I take the Gardenview and ask for an Oceanview upgrade ? Also the Villas have the lounge included anyway so no real diamond advantage there.If the oceanfront is VERY important, book it. If your vacation would be miserable if you were not upgraded to oceanfront, book the best room. There is no guarantee of an upgrade. Diamonds get lounge access staying in a villa or staying in the main hotel, so there is no sense of paying for it.

Would the award stay pretty much be the same like last option (room selected at check in) ? Yes, awards stays get a deluxe room and the balconys are about a foot wide but the view over the pool and ocean and villas is very nice. It would not be terrible to be there and you might (as a diamond) get a junior suite end unit with huge balcony and a jacuzzi.

I saw some reports here about some people getting upgrades and others not being upgraded.Again, if you can live without an upgrade, save the money and you can go down and nicely talk to the front desk and talk to people there until you find someone who will push through the upgrade. Took two trips for me, upon check-in nothing was available (but I am gold so wasn't expecting anything), in the early evening again I was told nothing is there, but the following afternoon AFTER checkout ended (maybe 1 pm) and it was rather slow, I sauntered in from the pool and said "So and so told me to come by around now because you might be able to move me to the villas." Bingo we were packed and over there in half an hour. The key is being able to live without the oceanfront villa upgrade. If that is a dealbreaker, it will be $350 well spent.

And have a good time.

one more thing, I was on a four night AXON award as a gold.

I just looked at the Cancun Hilton website and the room I had the first night was a standard room with a miniscule balcony but still a nice view http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/CUNHRHH-Hilton-Cancun-Golf-Spa-Resort/photoGallery.do The deluxe room balconys look nicer with table and chairs but the junior suites are MUCH nicer.

Thanks for all your replies.

I can live without an ocean view, I really don't care that much about it one way or the other especially if you can't go out and swim in it.

I am still a little confused about the Jr. Suite. Is that what the price list shows as ' 1 KING BED WITH WHIRLPOOL/ TERRACE OCEANVIEW'. If this is true the 191 US$ prepaid look like the best deal with 2 TV's, sofa bed for our son and the jacuzzi.

Also with breakfast coupons in the main restaurant the deal looks better as well especially with the lounge access in the evening as a Diamond.

Or is there another room type that I didn't find for the Jr. Suite ?

Thanks again and from all reports here we should for sure enjoy the property.

Or is there another room type that I didn't find for the Jr. Suite ?

According to the pics I posted in the earlier link, there are junior suites and master suites and according to this (run for a random day in summer with assumed wide open availability), there are

152.00 USD 1 KING BED OCEANVIEW
152.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS OCEANVIEW
178.00 USD 1 KING BED DELUXE ROOM WITH BALCONY OCEANVIEW
178.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS DELUXE ROOM W/ BALCONY OCEANVIEW
195.00 USD 1 KING VILLA WITH BALCONY/ SOFABED GARDENVIEW
195.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS VILLA WITH BALCONY GARDENVIEW
212.00 USD 1 KING VILLA WITH BALCONY/ SOFABED OCEANFRONT
212.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS VILLA WITH BALCONY OCEANFRONT
254.00 USD 1 KING BED JUNIOR SUITE W/ TERRACE OCEANVIEW
254.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS JR SUITE W/ WHIRLPOOL OCEANVIEW
186.00 USD 1 KING BED WITH WHIRLPOOL/ TERRACE OCEANVIEW
305.00 USD 1 KING 1 BDRM MASTER STE W/ TERRACE OCEANVIEW
152.00 USD ROOM SELECTED AT CHECK-IN OCEANVIEW
152.00 USD 1 KING BED ACCESSIBLE ROOM OCEANVIEW
152.00 USD 2 QUEEN BEDS ACCESSIBLE ROOM OCEANVIEW

Thus it seems that there is a difference between a one king with whirlpool/terrace (at $186 similar to your $191) and one king junior suite with whirlpool/terrace ($254) and one king master suite with whirlpool terrace ($305).

We just stayed in both ocean villa & 2 bed suite.

I suggest book the suite with the whirlpool at that price & see what upgrade you get at check in, remember to set your MY WAY prefence a few days before you depart.

I know there are even bigger suites that you may get upgraded to , concerning breakfast , if you like a big breakfast , better to take coupons for the main restaurant , as the villa lounge offering is limited but a forced heathly option! , also nice to sit out side , through it can busy at times.

I found the problem why I can't seem to find suites. We are looking from the 25th to the 31st of March. Seems like suites are only available starting on the 26th or 27th.
Also interesting to look at the rates, they do change on the 27th to a cheaper rate as well.
So I plan to get 2 reservations but a little undecided now on the suite vs. non suite especially if we would need to move after 1 or 2 nights.
I could play the system and create 2 reservations and see whether they get us a suite for the whole stay but the main problem is that the first reservation would be a room and the second one a suite, the other way around I would feel a lot more comfortable.
Thanks again for everybody's help and input and I do feel now like I rather take the suites or whirlpool rooms compared to the Villas.

Can anyone comment about whether or not there is construction noise occuring right now? Word is that the oceanfront conference center construction might be producing some noise and I'd like to know where the construction is on the property and if it's obtrusive --- or looking like it's winding down or winding up.

construction update: We stayed at the Cancun Hilton from 1/6 to 1/12. Neither heard noise nor saw signs of significant construction activity. There was a large piece of machinery parked out back at the far end of the conference center, but never saw it in action.

Thanks for the update. Did you see signs of construction for a new conference center? I wonder if maybe it's not happening or the schedule been's delayed (either that or they're way ahead of schedule which would be both great and highly unlikely).

Thanks for the update. Did you see signs of construction for a new conference center? I wonder if maybe it's not happening or the schedule been's delayed (either that or they're way ahead of schedule which would be both great and highly unlikely).

__________________________________________________ _______________
was also there till 13 Jan , & we had a suite & could look down to the construction on the left of the balcony.

Looked to me that they have a long way to go , certainly no noise at all , infact you really do not notice it at all during the day.

[QUOTE=Offshor;10992814]Going 1-27 for the first time to Cancun.
I am a Diamond VIP sitting on 4 million points. Yes, I just about live at Hilton Family Hotels.
They want to upgrade me.
I have a choice of Villa Room or Main building Suite. Which is better ?
If I take the Suite, do I still have access to the Villa Lounge ?

How is the beach in front of the hotel / Grainy or soft ? Is it a mile or so long ?

What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel ?
Thanks for any replies[/QUOTE

I just got back from this Hilton on 1/19. I had 3 in my party and booked roundtrip through Best Day at $52.00 roundtrip for 3. They wanted to pick us up over 3 hours before flight out, so I cancelled and took a cab from the Hilton(270 pesos-$19.00US for 3) I would negotiate from the airport if you plan on taking a cab to the hotel. The beach is fairly long, but as previous posts indicate there is quite a bit of limestone shelves. The sand is of medium consistancy. They had to haul quite a bit of sand in after the hurricane and it looks like some of it is washing out again.

Going 1-27 for the first time to Cancun.
I am a Diamond VIP sitting on 4 million points. Yes, I just about live at Hilton Family Hotels.
They want to upgrade me.
I have a choice of Villa Room or Main building Suite. Which is better ?
If I take the Suite, do I still have access to the Villa Lounge ?

How is the beach in front of the hotel / Grainy or soft ? Is it a mile or so long ?

What is the best way to get from the airport to the hotel ?
Thanks for any replies

I suggest a Suite in the Main Building if it is the Jr. Suite or better. We (wife and I) stayed for a week in a Jr. Suite last August and loved every minute of it. Also a Diamond, we were given access to the Lounge for the evening complimentary cocktail/snack reception from 5p-7p. Were given certs for cont breakfast in the restaurant (only one open in the morning) and were well pleased with the variety, quality, and quantity of items offered. If we wanted eggs, bacon, sausage, etc we had to pay an extra $8 bucks or so, which I did on our last day. I'm a big breakfast eater, my wife is not, and we both survived quite well on the cont breakfast each morning (except the last day when I was craving eggs). There are four or five stations in the huge buffet that are included in the cont breakfast. Excellent service. Staff very attentive, friendly, and helpful.

As for transportation, negotiate with a taxi at the airport. DON'T let the folks in the arrivals hall - after baggage claim and immigration - rope you into a conversation. They try to act like they some official sort of staff of the airport of government but they are really selling timeshares. Just keep walking outside and get ready to make a deal with the taxi guys. There are tons of hawkers trying to get you to ride with them to your hotel. It's rather bothersome to me. We did pre-arrange a ride to the Hilton with some company on the airport website but it was a rip-off in my opinion. Next time we'll take our chances with a cab. Someone else posted about having to be picked up 3 hours before our flight. Total b.s.... we got to the airport, breezed through check-in and had way too much time to wander the airport which is basically a nice mall with airplanes parked outside. Nex time, we'll sleep in and just get a cab at the hotel back to the airport.

Enjoy your stay. Of the many hilton resorts we've visited in the Mexico, P.R., and Hawaii, we think the one is Cancun is near the top.

Feel free to PM me with more questions about the hotel. Happy to help. I did the same before we went and some kind fellow FT'ers were very helpful to answer our questions and made our trip more enjoyable we think from a logistic standpoint.

I have stayed at the Hilton several times over the last couple of years. Here is my suggestion for transportation. Buy one way transportation for $35.00-$40.00 from www.entertainment-plus.net
This way there is no problems starting off your vacation. I have used them several times and they are always waiting with a sign that has my name on it.

Return to the airport:
(1-3 people or 4 with small bags) When you are ready to go home, take a cab. No guessing on price either because the cabs have a flat rate to the airport.
(4 or more with lots of luggage) Get roundtrip from www.entertainment-plus.net
The reason for this is because if they call you up a cab for 4 people and you don't fit in the little car they will call you up a van and charge you double. I know this from personal experience. Even though the van may have been next in line to take 1 or 2 people somewhere, they try to upcharge you. I had to argue the point(and won), but its not a great way to end the vacation.

If anyone needs an entertainment-plus card I have one that expires March 1. It gets you 2 for 1 meals at a number of good restaurants... you can check the website in the last post for more details.

Does anyone have a good email message for this hotel ? Specifically, for the concierge - please pm me

Hi,

Little update.
I was at Hilton Cancun 28-31 Jan. Reward stay. HHonors Gold.

Room
At check-in I've got King Bed Ocean view, 6th floor. No balcony - no problem as view was stunning and we rather stay outside.

Upgrade
King bed was ok for us, so I only asked concierge for 'upgrade'/access to famous Villa Lounge.
He said firmly: no - presenting list of Gold members benefits and said I was granted additional breakfast coupons.
I assumed wrongly that it's stnd coupon for Contibreakfast - and "sad" accepted the refusal... but next morning got surprise as they have granted me Complimentary Full breakfast coupons :-)

Breakfast
Very good as I got nice full break coupons.

Pool.
Very nice.

Service.
Average. Everyone is smiling and is supernice but... but I personally do not like this learned formulas.
Asked reception desk to fix my security locker, after 2 h - still not working,
asked them again - they can't say what is the status,
asked again after 2 hours - status unknown... I gave up.

Beach
Just rocky beach. Can't comment as first 3 nights we spend on the Tulum beach.... ;-)

Food - very good in general 400 - 800 pesos for two.
Pasta&Pizza - cheap and very good.
Mitachi ? - Seaside grill - very good, superb view.
Spices - very good breakfast and dinner nice as well.

Pool bar
Poor. I used once as 80 pesos for a mojito is quite absurd. Mojito made with very poor quality.
In general drinks prices are incredibly high as for mexico. Better go to Chedraui by R1 bus and buy 6pack of sol, corona for a 60pesos... and Bacardi bottle for 70pesos...

In general it was good and quiet relax time, big advantage of my stay was that hotel was rather empty.. and views are very nice from the 6th floor.

Br,
costa

Although I am gold, just received 'welcome' email a week in advance of our reward stay. I took the opportunity to reply and plead my anniversay trip case for a junior suite w/jacuzzi....never hurts to ask! ;)

I'm posting this in case anyone needs the email address/phone/fax/name of the concierge at the Hilton Cancun.
___________________________________

Dear <CTviajera>,

My name is Alfredo Buenfil, and I am the Concierge at the Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort. We are delighted that you have chosen our hotel for your trip to Cancun! And we especially appreciate the loyalty and patronage of our Hilton HHonors members.

Do you have any special requests that we can coordinate for you in advance? Can we help you to arrange spa appointments, ground transportation, golf tee times or restaurant reservations? Or perhaps you are coming to Cancun to celebrate a special occasion? The more we know about you, the better we can anticipate your wishes and personalize your experience. So please do not hesitate to send an email and let us know how we can be of service.

I do hope to have the opportunity to meet you in person while you are here. On behalf of the entire concierge team, I would like to say "Bienvenido"... you are almost here!

Best Regards,
Alfredo Buenfil l Phone +52-998-881-8086 l Fax +52998-881-8093 concierge@hiltoncancun.com.mx