Originally Posted by
platbrownguy
I am so glad I picked this place when I came in August the first time. The Ritz wasn't much more $$, but the location of the Hyatt seemed better (it is), and the pool situation seemed better (I can't compare, but the Hyatt pools really are top notch). And the confirmable suite upgrade was the clincher. The windows on the island-facing side of the Ritz are also really small. I'm sure the balcony rooms are fine but I'd hate to be stuck in a dated room with a tiny window at the Ritz. Even though the exec suite at the Hyatt is back a fair distance from the ocean, it's still plainly visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Thanks for the info on the suite upgrade. As for the Ritz- it's a bit far down the beach & the overall vibe is a little too uninspired/conventional for me. The pools are fine but the whole thing feels like an upscale Marriott Vacation Club. But the beach experience is
amazing- quiet, uncrowded, and exceptional service (via segways), especially compared to the areas further down the beach. If you don't want to be doing side deals with the activities desk to get a beach chair the Ritz is a great option.
We also got an amazing deal on an enormous ocean front suite with 5th night free from RC and 4th night free from the Citi Prestige. But I got the impression the regular rooms weren't that special, especially if they were not ocean facing. As a Globalist I don't think the Ritz would be worth it, maybe just a day or two to experience the beach.