The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico [Master Thread]
Aug 22, 2023, 1:15 pm
#601
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: Washington, DC
Programs: Delta PM, HHonors Gold; SPG Gold
Posts: 254
Just got back from six days at the resort during the first half of August. We were a family of 12 including two kids under 4. We had a total of 5 rooms -- 4 regular rooms and 1 suite.
I actually can't believe I'm typing this, as I often read reviews of high-end products (on the air or on the ground) on these forums and roll my eyes when people nit pick over small things -- but our entire trip was seemingly snakebit by minor things. Admittedly they're all minor -- we had a great time -- but as a family accustomed to Four Seasons and the like, the service here was a full notch below. The positives: the staff was fabulous. Clearly well-trained and friendly in all interactions, but as someone mentioned upthread, there just weren't enough of them. Things took forever -- and we're fine with Island Time and the idea that service isn't always as prompt, but room service and poolside service took entire too long. (i.e. 75 minutes for pizzas for the kids). Little things like one member of our party ordered coffee service to the room each morning (confirmed at check-in) and all six mornings it came to a different room, only actually being delivered to their room once of the six mornings. Was it difficult for me to pick up the tray and carry it two doors down? No. But should that happen at what TSR is charging for a room, not to mention the coffee itself? Also no.
Every time we came back to our "casa" there was a parade of glasses, plates, etc., set out front, sometimes for hours on end. They'd be there when we arrived back from a day out, and still there 2-3 hours later after we'd showered, napped, etc., and were ready to head out for dinner.
As someone else mentioned -- getting uber is basically impossible at the resort due its remote location. The butler/concierge staff was great about securing taxis for us when we wanted to venture out, and the taxis always arrived on-time and had the appropriate number of seats we requested - but they were very expensive.
The food at the resort was...fine. It ranged between edible and decent...nothing great, but that's fine. Not every trip has to be a "foodie" trip. The views was gorgeous. The pool is great. Would we come back? Probably not when there's better choices in the Caribbean, not to mention across the world, but it was a perfectly fine family vacation where the 12 of us enjoyed each other (except for the occasional fight lol) and made great memories together, which at the end of the day, is the goal.
I actually can't believe I'm typing this, as I often read reviews of high-end products (on the air or on the ground) on these forums and roll my eyes when people nit pick over small things -- but our entire trip was seemingly snakebit by minor things. Admittedly they're all minor -- we had a great time -- but as a family accustomed to Four Seasons and the like, the service here was a full notch below. The positives: the staff was fabulous. Clearly well-trained and friendly in all interactions, but as someone mentioned upthread, there just weren't enough of them. Things took forever -- and we're fine with Island Time and the idea that service isn't always as prompt, but room service and poolside service took entire too long. (i.e. 75 minutes for pizzas for the kids). Little things like one member of our party ordered coffee service to the room each morning (confirmed at check-in) and all six mornings it came to a different room, only actually being delivered to their room once of the six mornings. Was it difficult for me to pick up the tray and carry it two doors down? No. But should that happen at what TSR is charging for a room, not to mention the coffee itself? Also no.
Every time we came back to our "casa" there was a parade of glasses, plates, etc., set out front, sometimes for hours on end. They'd be there when we arrived back from a day out, and still there 2-3 hours later after we'd showered, napped, etc., and were ready to head out for dinner.
As someone else mentioned -- getting uber is basically impossible at the resort due its remote location. The butler/concierge staff was great about securing taxis for us when we wanted to venture out, and the taxis always arrived on-time and had the appropriate number of seats we requested - but they were very expensive.
The food at the resort was...fine. It ranged between edible and decent...nothing great, but that's fine. Not every trip has to be a "foodie" trip. The views was gorgeous. The pool is great. Would we come back? Probably not when there's better choices in the Caribbean, not to mention across the world, but it was a perfectly fine family vacation where the 12 of us enjoyed each other (except for the occasional fight lol) and made great memories together, which at the end of the day, is the goal.
Oct 3, 2023, 8:09 am
#602
Join Date: Sep 2018
Posts: 86
Just got back from six days at the resort during the first half of August. We were a family of 12 including two kids under 4. We had a total of 5 rooms -- 4 regular rooms and 1 suite.
I actually can't believe I'm typing this, as I often read reviews of high-end products (on the air or on the ground) on these forums and roll my eyes when people nit pick over small things -- but our entire trip was seemingly snakebit by minor things. Admittedly they're all minor -- we had a great time -- but as a family accustomed to Four Seasons and the like, the service here was a full notch below. The positives: the staff was fabulous. Clearly well-trained and friendly in all interactions, but as someone mentioned upthread, there just weren't enough of them. Things took forever -- and we're fine with Island Time and the idea that service isn't always as prompt, but room service and poolside service took entire too long. (i.e. 75 minutes for pizzas for the kids). Little things like one member of our party ordered coffee service to the room each morning (confirmed at check-in) and all six mornings it came to a different room, only actually being delivered to their room once of the six mornings. Was it difficult for me to pick up the tray and carry it two doors down? No. But should that happen at what TSR is charging for a room, not to mention the coffee itself? Also no.
Every time we came back to our "casa" there was a parade of glasses, plates, etc., set out front, sometimes for hours on end. They'd be there when we arrived back from a day out, and still there 2-3 hours later after we'd showered, napped, etc., and were ready to head out for dinner.
As someone else mentioned -- getting uber is basically impossible at the resort due its remote location. The butler/concierge staff was great about securing taxis for us when we wanted to venture out, and the taxis always arrived on-time and had the appropriate number of seats we requested - but they were very expensive.
The food at the resort was...fine. It ranged between edible and decent...nothing great, but that's fine. Not every trip has to be a "foodie" trip. The views was gorgeous. The pool is great. Would we come back? Probably not when there's better choices in the Caribbean, not to mention across the world, but it was a perfectly fine family vacation where the 12 of us enjoyed each other (except for the occasional fight lol) and made great memories together, which at the end of the day, is the goal.
I actually can't believe I'm typing this, as I often read reviews of high-end products (on the air or on the ground) on these forums and roll my eyes when people nit pick over small things -- but our entire trip was seemingly snakebit by minor things. Admittedly they're all minor -- we had a great time -- but as a family accustomed to Four Seasons and the like, the service here was a full notch below. The positives: the staff was fabulous. Clearly well-trained and friendly in all interactions, but as someone mentioned upthread, there just weren't enough of them. Things took forever -- and we're fine with Island Time and the idea that service isn't always as prompt, but room service and poolside service took entire too long. (i.e. 75 minutes for pizzas for the kids). Little things like one member of our party ordered coffee service to the room each morning (confirmed at check-in) and all six mornings it came to a different room, only actually being delivered to their room once of the six mornings. Was it difficult for me to pick up the tray and carry it two doors down? No. But should that happen at what TSR is charging for a room, not to mention the coffee itself? Also no.
Every time we came back to our "casa" there was a parade of glasses, plates, etc., set out front, sometimes for hours on end. They'd be there when we arrived back from a day out, and still there 2-3 hours later after we'd showered, napped, etc., and were ready to head out for dinner.
As someone else mentioned -- getting uber is basically impossible at the resort due its remote location. The butler/concierge staff was great about securing taxis for us when we wanted to venture out, and the taxis always arrived on-time and had the appropriate number of seats we requested - but they were very expensive.
The food at the resort was...fine. It ranged between edible and decent...nothing great, but that's fine. Not every trip has to be a "foodie" trip. The views was gorgeous. The pool is great. Would we come back? Probably not when there's better choices in the Caribbean, not to mention across the world, but it was a perfectly fine family vacation where the 12 of us enjoyed each other (except for the occasional fight lol) and made great memories together, which at the end of the day, is the goal.
Oct 9, 2023, 7:57 am
#604
Join Date: Jan 2022
Posts: 51
Staying here soon with the wife & 4 y/o. We were looking for a nice secluded resort and this checked several of the boxes we were looking for. I have a few questions for those who have stayed recently?
We plan on renting a car. Is there ample parking and if so is there a parking cost?
The biggest gripe here appears to be the food. Are there places nearby or in San Juan that are must visit? We are all avid food lovers (even the 4 y/o) and are looking for some memorable dining options. We'd love anything from an amazing food truck/stand on up to fine dining. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This is our first time at a St Regis (normally JW or RC) and wondering how the butler service works. Is there a dedicated butler? Should I be tipping the butler each time?
Last question, what's the most memorable thing you or your family did on site? Could be anything; a dish, a drink, activity, etc.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
We plan on renting a car. Is there ample parking and if so is there a parking cost?
The biggest gripe here appears to be the food. Are there places nearby or in San Juan that are must visit? We are all avid food lovers (even the 4 y/o) and are looking for some memorable dining options. We'd love anything from an amazing food truck/stand on up to fine dining. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This is our first time at a St Regis (normally JW or RC) and wondering how the butler service works. Is there a dedicated butler? Should I be tipping the butler each time?
Last question, what's the most memorable thing you or your family did on site? Could be anything; a dish, a drink, activity, etc.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Oct 9, 2023, 8:34 am
#605
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Live: IWI; Work: DCA/Everywhere; Play: LAS/SJU/MLE
Programs: AA EXP, DL PM, Hyatt Glob, Marriott Ambassador/LTP, Nat'l Exec Elite, LEYE Gold
Posts: 6,675
Staying here soon with the wife & 4 y/o. We were looking for a nice secluded resort and this checked several of the boxes we were looking for. I have a few questions for those who have stayed recently?
We plan on renting a car. Is there ample parking and if so is there a parking cost?
The biggest gripe here appears to be the food. Are there places nearby or in San Juan that are must visit? We are all avid food lovers (even the 4 y/o) and are looking for some memorable dining options. We'd love anything from an amazing food truck/stand on up to fine dining. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This is our first time at a St Regis (normally JW or RC) and wondering how the butler service works. Is there a dedicated butler? Should I be tipping the butler each time?
Last question, what's the most memorable thing you or your family did on site? Could be anything; a dish, a drink, activity, etc.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
We plan on renting a car. Is there ample parking and if so is there a parking cost?
The biggest gripe here appears to be the food. Are there places nearby or in San Juan that are must visit? We are all avid food lovers (even the 4 y/o) and are looking for some memorable dining options. We'd love anything from an amazing food truck/stand on up to fine dining. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This is our first time at a St Regis (normally JW or RC) and wondering how the butler service works. Is there a dedicated butler? Should I be tipping the butler each time?
Last question, what's the most memorable thing you or your family did on site? Could be anything; a dish, a drink, activity, etc.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Valet parking was reasonable (sub-$30/day I think).
Butler is just a team thing, not a dedicated person; tip as you would tip ordinary hotel staff IMO. This isn't like Maldives butlers.
Favorite thing for us is long walks up and down the long beach finding sand dollars.
Oct 9, 2023, 9:49 am
#606
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Formerly Box 350, Boston Mass, Oh two one three four. Now near Beverly Hills 90210
Programs: Loyal Order of Water Buffalos
Posts: 3,938
Staying here soon with the wife & 4 y/o. We were looking for a nice secluded resort and this checked several of the boxes we were looking for. I have a few questions for those who have stayed recently?
We plan on renting a car. Is there ample parking and if so is there a parking cost?
The biggest gripe here appears to be the food. Are there places nearby or in San Juan that are must visit? We are all avid food lovers (even the 4 y/o) and are looking for some memorable dining options. We'd love anything from an amazing food truck/stand on up to fine dining. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This is our first time at a St Regis (normally JW or RC) and wondering how the butler service works. Is there a dedicated butler? Should I be tipping the butler each time?
Last question, what's the most memorable thing you or your family did on site? Could be anything; a dish, a drink, activity, etc.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
We plan on renting a car. Is there ample parking and if so is there a parking cost?
The biggest gripe here appears to be the food. Are there places nearby or in San Juan that are must visit? We are all avid food lovers (even the 4 y/o) and are looking for some memorable dining options. We'd love anything from an amazing food truck/stand on up to fine dining. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This is our first time at a St Regis (normally JW or RC) and wondering how the butler service works. Is there a dedicated butler? Should I be tipping the butler each time?
Last question, what's the most memorable thing you or your family did on site? Could be anything; a dish, a drink, activity, etc.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Our favorite nearby restaurant was Richie's - Richies Restaurant – There is nothing like a spectacular view to enhance a delicious dining experience (richiesrestaurantpr.com) Good food at good prices and spectacular views
Oct 9, 2023, 11:21 am
#607
Join Date: Nov 2012
Posts: 702
For food, check out Luquillo. Lots of good options. We are partial to El Rincón de Sabor (in the back of a gift shop, not fine dining but the best versions of mofongo, asopao, etc., in our opinion). The kiosks (food stalls but closer to restaurants) in Luquillo are also fun. Some higher end options around as well. There are a handful of sought-after restaurants in San Juan but not worth the detour from the St.R in my opinion. Do that when you're staying in San Juan. Or maybe if you go into San Juan for a day, have a meal there.
Valet parking was reasonable (sub-$30/day I think).
Butler is just a team thing, not a dedicated person; tip as you would tip ordinary hotel staff IMO. This isn't like Maldives butlers.
Favorite thing for us is long walks up and down the long beach finding sand dollars.
Valet parking was reasonable (sub-$30/day I think).
Butler is just a team thing, not a dedicated person; tip as you would tip ordinary hotel staff IMO. This isn't like Maldives butlers.
Favorite thing for us is long walks up and down the long beach finding sand dollars.
On prior trips (not to StR) we had good luck with restaurants when asking the bell/valet stand for recommendations.
Yes to the sand dollar walks on the beach!
The butler service was nothing special but then again, we just used it for coffee and breakfast.
Oct 10, 2023, 3:38 pm
#609
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Live: IWI; Work: DCA/Everywhere; Play: LAS/SJU/MLE
Programs: AA EXP, DL PM, Hyatt Glob, Marriott Ambassador/LTP, Nat'l Exec Elite, LEYE Gold
Posts: 6,675
That said, ever since the cryptocurrency nouveau riche moved to Puerto Rico, this place has been selling its suites pretty successfully. I've been lucky the past few trips but if the suites are sold out, don't be surprised.
Oct 24, 2023, 10:53 am
#610
Join Date: Apr 2011
Programs: Marriott Ambassador, AA ExecPlat, Amtrak Select Exec, former WN apologist
Posts: 1,429
Does anyone know what rooms are in the SNA pool for this property? I have a stay booked for 2024, but my current SNAs will expire before then so I can't view. I still need to make Choice selections for this year, but I hate when I pick SNAs and the rooms in the pool are garbage like "Deluxe King with upgraded view".
Oct 26, 2023, 3:39 pm
#612
Join Date: Dec 2022
Posts: 20
Do We Need a Car for St. Regis Bahia Visit?
Hello FlyerTalk community,
We're a family of three (including a 13-year-old) visiting St. Regis Bahia for the first time during Thanksgiving. We'll be there for 4 nights and plan to see attractions like El Yunque and Old San Juan.
For those who've stayed at this property:
Hello FlyerTalk community,
We're a family of three (including a 13-year-old) visiting St. Regis Bahia for the first time during Thanksgiving. We'll be there for 4 nights and plan to see attractions like El Yunque and Old San Juan.
For those who've stayed at this property:
- Is a car necessary?
- Have you used excursion or tour services that offer hotel pickup and drop-off and if so how did that turn out?
Oct 27, 2023, 8:07 am
#613
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Washington, DC
Posts: 695
Do We Need a Car for St. Regis Bahia Visit?
Hello FlyerTalk community,
We're a family of three (including a 13-year-old) visiting St. Regis Bahia for the first time during Thanksgiving. We'll be there for 4 nights and plan to see attractions like El Yunque and Old San Juan.
For those who've stayed at this property:
Hello FlyerTalk community,
We're a family of three (including a 13-year-old) visiting St. Regis Bahia for the first time during Thanksgiving. We'll be there for 4 nights and plan to see attractions like El Yunque and Old San Juan.
For those who've stayed at this property:
- Is a car necessary?
- Have you used excursion or tour services that offer hotel pickup and drop-off and if so how did that turn out?
Oct 27, 2023, 9:33 am
#615
Join Date: Nov 2012
Posts: 702
I agree with renting a car, the resort is isolated. I think our ride from the airport was at least 45 minutes.
I am sure the resort can connect you with a great guide service for El Yunque. Parking in the National Forest is limited. I was very happy we got a guide who accompanied us on some hikes and dropped/picked us up at other travel heads.
I am sure the resort can connect you with a great guide service for El Yunque. Parking in the National Forest is limited. I was very happy we got a guide who accompanied us on some hikes and dropped/picked us up at other travel heads.