I stayed with the family in early August and was very happy. As PLT we were upgraded to a suite on the floor with the lounge. The manager on duty came out and greeted us personally while we were checking in.
The Dead Sea is a 5 minute walk from the front door so no need to take the tram. The pool as a lot of fun for the kids after a soak in the sea.
We did not eat in the restaurants since we were there on points(hopefully one day this will change). The shopping center down the road was fine to get water, dinner for the kids and some great salads for us.
We even went there for breakfast after our climb up Masada.
Overall we were surprised especially after reading all the reviews before we went.